The Empire Cinema has a long history in Island Bay,

The corner section on The Parade and Mersey Street was purchased in 1902 by a Mr Stanley Chisholm but not developed until 1924 when he commissioned the construction of the theatre, shops and billiard hall.
 The theatre was a two story building with a shop on either side selling cinema icecream and a hair salon and a single story billiard hall on the west side with a separate entrance. When completed the buildings were sold to The Empire Theatre Company whose manager was a well known Wellington personality, Mr Tartakover

Seeing several changes over the years including a storefront for Bata Shoes & also as a Hardware store.

The cinema was sold in 2013, to Island Bay local Pat Vinaccia. The interior has been completely revamped with three boutique cinemas and eatery for its grand re-opening on May 14th 2015. The first movie screening is Woman in Gold, starring Helen Mirren and Ryan Reynolds.
The newly vamped cinema once again promises to be a treasured gem of the community. Each cinema holds between 49 and 65 people, showing mainstream blockbusters, family movies and art house titles. With an A-grade seismic strength and attention to detail in the service areas, it’s friendly and cosy, with plenty of room alongside each sofa for your coffee, wine or a snack. The Empire Cinema & Eatery is a place to meet, connect, unwind and belong.

Recently winners of the 30th Dulux colour awards in Melbourne.

The Empire has never looked better, boasting a cosy cafe/restaurant with an excellent wine list, local craft beer, Havana coffee, T-leaf teas, Gellicious gelato, and delicious housemade treats in the cabinet.

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