Reviews of ByTowne Cinema (Movie Theater)

Hélène Izvarina-Bulter

Old time cinema. Almost forgotten culture of watching the movies on really big screen. Thank you. Casablanca for 14th February was the best idea ever.

Will Miller

Small theater, parking nearby; good place for a movie

Véronique Drolet-Gratton

Another one of my go tos. This historical building is awesome. An old fashioned cinema experience is always a good idea. Plus the films they play are always interesting.

Justa Bee

Cash only. Heritage building. Pepsi not Coke. Real butter on the popcorn and not that "butter flavoring" they have at Cineplex. Decent seating considering the age. A good place to go.

Calogero Cumbo

Great Theater showing movies you can't see elsewhere

Robert Griffin

Good Independent cinema, one of two let in the city. Great selection of both mainstream and independent/world films. The interior is a bit cave like and lacks character.

Errin Starzynski

Clean and well-maintained.

Danielle Fournier

By far my favourite theatre in Ottawa! Try the popcorn, you won’t regret it!

Richard Mayer

(Translated) The cinematic repertoire is enviable. (Original) Le répertoire cinématographique est enviable.

Alison Milan

So charming, membership is worth it!

Chantale Lavoie

Love the small community atmosphere!

David Mowbray

One of the last traditional cinemas in Ottawa. It shows a great combo of mainstream, first run films with the best from Europe and Asia. And with a membership it soon becomes cheaper per visit than a new multiscreen.

Anselm K

Always an enjoyable experience viewing films here. My favourite popcorn!

Freddy Baril

Local cinema featuring great documentaries and international movies otherwise not available at your local Cineplex. Their popcorn is sublime and adequately priced. Do yourself a favour and step back in time while immersing yourself in a breathtaking documentary or movie.

JuanLuis Vasquez

Love the theatre, the food service and the programming. COVID measures in place are good and they do not slow down the entrance to the theatre.

Eric von Graevenitz

A unique spot in the region and the go to place for foreign and independent films.

Trevor Wilkins

Always good films. Always enthusiastic service. A delight to go there...

Robert Harasemiw

Always a must visit..a blast from the past!

Lanqing Irena Qin

Really good movies from across the world that you don’t usually see in big theaters. I’ve just started visiting regularly not long ago but it’s become one of my favorite go-to spots in downtown.

Doug Bailey

Nice classic theater! Pretty safe during COVID. Every second row closed off and in each open row there will be 3 seats blocked off, then 2 open, then 3 closed then 2 open, etc.

Kathy McKay

I liked the speedy service, good prices and good selection of movies.

Juan G. S.

The best place to watch excellent movies.

Michael Richardson

A great historic movie theatre.

Richard J J Bridle

Super selection of movies at a great price.

Pierre Habrih

Great experience, popcorn is bad. Bring your own

Andrew Star

Always a fan of the BYTOWNE cinema. I saw all my favourite indie movies there and always love going back for a viewing!

Dusty Productions

Great prices and they are always playing at least 1 interesting movie!

Sean Bufton

This theatre is a diamond in the rough. Best popcorn in the city and quality films that always seem to get me in the feels.

Anthony DiMichele

Plays a lot of off beat and sometimes downright weird movies but that's part of the charm. Popcorn and drinks are well priced (popcorn tastes amazing here btw) and the seats are really comfy.

Nui Esser

Not only they have great selections of films, but also the best popcorn in town!

Dominique Rioux

Awesome movie selection that goes far beyond Hollywood. Best popcorn ever. Reasonably priced.

Sarah Ziegel

Great prices for tickets and snacks. I use a student pass and it has made seeing movies on a student budget less stressful. Their unique movie options are also a nice change from the Cineplex offerings of blockbusters. I like the 'theatre house' feeling that comes with the one screen theatre. Staff are typically pleasant and the popcorn is good!

Jacques Denomme

Good old fashion theater

Jacques Dubé

(Translated) Glad that there is an independent cinema of this type in 2020. I hope that it will be able to continue offering us quality films for a long time outside the big distribution boxes. (Original) Heureux qu'il existe un cinéma indépendant de ce type en 2020. J'espère qu'il pourra continuer nous offrir encore longtemps des films de qualité en dehors des grosses boîtes de distribution.

Teresa Holmes

Lovely theatre with different films, more importantly, plays opera and ballet.

Stephen Taylor

Classic movie hall in downtown Ottawa. Locale is a bit rundown.

J Gnome

Great venue for independent foreign films

Winter Bird

Very old timey (even vintage) singular theatre - watching a movie here wasn't so bad but I'd personally prefer the professional experience of Cineplex theatres more

Greg Pottinger

Great old theatre. Best popcorn with butter. :) always interesting movies

marty prouse

Classic old school cinema feel and holds its own on a hot summer day given the buildings age. My only gripe is it's cash only. I hope to watch more anime here soon.

Anna Campbell

Cheap food, great movies. Unfortunately cash only but worth it.

Ottawa Tours

A great place in Ottawa to see one off movies and good cult movies as well as international originals! Oh and who could forget the "Advertising Competition" series!

Paul Cullum

Great old movie theatre.

david applebaum

I wish there was a six-star option! The Bytowne Cinema is the best independent movie theater in the world!

Luthor Nguyen

Great local cinema experience. Vintage style. Cash only.

Andre Cyr

I'm so glad that the byTowne is still true to its mission. A grand old theater showing great cinema.

Connor Baumann

Good theatre, you can buy snacks at Loblaws before going.

Romeo Graham

Excellent selection of films, and the best (and cheapest!!) popcorn in town. With an annual membership, the tickets are cheap too! Keep up the great work!

Simon Quigley

My first visit, for a free screening of Scanners. I was impressed and will try to get back again soon.

Audrey Cormier

Nicely run art house / independent film theatre. Shows mainly hot new foreign and independent films, and some Canadian features too. Occasionally shows old classics. Helpful, friendly staff.

Silvia Logan

I love the Bytowne very much. It is my favorite movie theatre since they show many foreign films, independent films, classic movies, opera, and theatre which the Cineplexes do not do. I have been going there since I was a little girl in the 1980s watching Disney movies. It is walking distance from my house. Popcorn, candy, and coke are cheap. I feel so bad that it is closing down because it was affected financially by the pandemic. I wonder what will become of the Bytowne cinema in the future.

Jessie W

Saw Parasite here and it was a great venue. If there is a line for your show, go early because you may have to wait outside. There isn't really a lobby area.

Jordan Turley

(Translated) A classic cinema with a single screen. ByTowne has a lot of character. The prices are reasonable and the independent films on display vary from day to day. (Original) Un cinoche classique à simple écran. le ByTowne a beaucoup de caractère. Les prix sont raisonnables et les films indépendants à l'affiche varient d'un jour à l'autre.

Maxim Aubrey-Robillard

(Translated) The best independent cinema in town! The popcorn is delicious and the staff are friendly. Plus, we do not charge $ 50 for an appetizer and a small popcorn like the big chains do! (Original) Le meilleur cinéma indépendant en ville! Le popcorn y est délicieux et les employés sont sympathiques. De plus, on ne vous charge pas 50$ pour une entrée et un petit popcorn comme les grandes chaînes le font!

Anna Celebanska

Nice theather with independent movies

Dave Watson

Excellent theatre for those who want something other than mainstream movies.

Emma Kadri

Very old theatre. You must go there once. Lovely.

Donald Keddy

Perfect atmosphere for what it provides. Concession stand has great pricing. Overall always a good experience.

Thomas Blaine

Cool movies, good seats, good prices.

Steve Hammond

Old school movie theater playing independent films. Concession prices are totally reasonable.

Hugo Pagan Soto

Great movies, terrible staff.

Diana Mendes

Love the old timey feel, good selection of movies n

William Moss

Very easy parking on a Sunday night. The paper straws are cool.

Chris Bridgen

Was so happy when this theatre reopened. The new owner kept the red curtain intact, the popcorn fresh, and the decor deco.

Delcourt olivier

(Translated) A pillar of modern society. (Original) Un pilier de la société moderne.

Martin Sauvé

The ByTowne has a unique vibe, a refreshing movie selection, and of course, renowned popcorn!

Rick Kenny

Old - fashioned venue, repertory cinema showing curated selection of ommercial and art films from around the world; very reasonable prices.

Joel Baxter

A great classic theatre in the downtown core. Good idea to show up at least 15-20 minutes ahead of your show, I aim for a little earlier than that. Buy your ticket first at the box office then line up outside on the sidewalk, follow signage. I highly recommend buying the membership if it's your first visit, it lasts one year and will cost $20 ($12 for the membership and $8 for the ticket your buying at that show). All future ticket prices with membership is $8 opposed to the regular $12 for one year and your supporting a small local business. Popcorn and soda prices are very reasonable.

Jessica Chung

Great local theater! I don't always love what they play, but there are always some great gems playing here. Ticket prices are reasonable even without a membership. Not to mention GREAT popcorn at VERY reasonable prices!

Apogee & Heritage

Real movies!

Mark Kluepfel

Great choice for movies that don't get a lot of showings here in the bigbox movie houses. Membership gets you a reduction on the cost of a movie.

Gailene Green

The most wonderful selection of films from around the world. All the best film you can't see anywhere else. And the canteen has a good selection of treats including healthy foods and drinks. Everything is low cost too. Wonderful staff!!!

Catalina Montalvo

Love the place!

Terrell Cunningham

Art house cinema. Old school.

John Bouza

Ottawa's best independent movie house.

DL

I’ll never seat at the balcony again But great experience! Love this cinema! Popcorn is delicious and the movies too!!!

Jamie Taylor

Great selection of movies & best popcorn in town.

Cam

Attended for the first time to see The French Dispatch. Lovely experience

Rebecca W

The ByTowne has movies you wont find in any theatre (docs, independents) or movies you missed in theaters. And at a great price. Highly recommend!

Peggy Caldwell

Best cinema, comfy seats, nice washroom and snacks. ONLY CASH

Fabien Ancelin

Sure you have to wait in the line if you are there too early. But their movie selection, including French, is top notch, original, and it is always a fantastic experience.

Saif Terai

Opportunity to see rare documentaries and films from other countries.

Richard Kulesza

I still love VIP. Definitely been great every time.

Basile van Havre

Great art house.

Jeanne Loiseau

(Translated) I really like .... Absolutely perfect repertory cinema, the staff are attentive and courteous. (Original) J'aime beaucoup.... Cinéma de répertoire absolument parfait, le personnel est attentif et courtois.

Shannon Woodrow (sapboats)

Very cool old school feel.

Curtis Perry

This place has it all.

dan wang

(Translated) A classic cinema with a single screen. (Original) Un cinoche classique à simple écran.

Michael Clarke

Great place with great movies. Would lose a star for only accepting cash, but gets it right back for having genuinely the best theatre popcorn I've ever tried. Plus their commitment to using compostable supplies is admirable.

Phil Fleury

Ottawa's foremost cinematic institution, with a history that stretches back decades. A local treasure.

Serge Bouffard

(Translated) Movies are $ 12 and you have to wait outside in the middle of winter! However, excellent choice of films. (Original) Les films sont à 12$ et il faut attendre dehors en plein hiver! Cependant, choix de films excellent.

Jose B

Perfect to watch alternative and independent cinema. Some films are really good and others really bad;) check program and watch trailers in advance.

Faridath Glawdis YESSOUFOU

It was a nice experience. A whole different cinema culture. People watch everything to the end and clap. It's amazing!

Robert Hamilton

Excelent value and popcorn mummm butter real butter

Alain Lu

Nice cinema in the core of Ottawa downtown

Rabin Ramah

World Cinema. The only Cinema Downtown OTTAWA. East of King Edward on Rideau. Monthly listings. Membership is a Bonus.

Marc Fares

Nice repertory theatre with good movies, comfortable seating and efficient operation. Cash only.

François Lemay

If you are a fan of repertoire and independent cinema...this IS the place in Ottawa. Great selections of movies .

ice-coldbaby 420gaming

looks good

محمد نبيل Moh, AL-Obedy

Garbage was very bad smell

Rune

Love the Bytowne!

Stephann Etienne

Good theater, i only went once but experience was pleasant. The wait line is outside however.

Al

A very unique, old style cinema that only plays short run movies. This cinema as been there for ages. The tickets are a bit cheaper that your regular blockbuster cinemas but for a reason, the screen isn't as big. Still a very nice area. Popcorn there is great.

Chris Fourney

Paid the projectionist in chicken bones and he conjured a film of my full life. What is this sorcery? Would pay again.

Janet Chua

I love to go there whenever i want to refresh my mind & watch movies. I love to watch movies a lot. So, it's a perfect place for me. The place is really amazing. It's one of my favourite place too.

Alina Balunova

Going here guarantees you’ll have the best movie experience. Not only are the staff amazing, but they also handle the pandemic very seriously. Seats are spaced out so that you are social distancing from those around you. I am excitedly awaiting the reopening!

ekaterina barrios

Great selections

Gib

A great variety of films, most if which do not get major distribution. An older theatre, but updated with comfortable seats. Lots of character.

Umakanth Thirugnanam

Always a pleasure to catch high quality flicks at ByTowne

Garry Patterson

Great movies

A M Brookes

Foreign films, indi films - stuff you won't see anywhere else

Fiona Pinard

It is cute. Cash only though. Had an authentic popcorn smell in the lobby. It was a little hard to hear since I sat further back. Not surround sound speakers. Other than that..cool place.

Louise Heidi Ross

I love the fact that there are the rare movies that are shown at the Bytowne Cinema. Just got to see "Loving Vincent" and it was amazing.

Michele Corriveau

Lovely place - shows movies no one else typically shows. Decently priced movie and pop corns! Great for a matinee date!

Patrick Thompson

Great theater. I really like the fact that it's not really commercialized, it's a friendly atmosphere. It's small theater considering that there is only one screen but there is a ton of seating for that one screen, so it's great for film festivals. I go there every year for the best of banf film festival and it's always the best. The popcorn is great although they recently have gotten rid of the large popcorn bags. Other than that it's a great place to go and see a movie. I would definitely recommend that you go there at least once, it's worth it.

William Szepesi

Great movies of all eras. Parking on nearby streets usually for free. Membership saves money for frequent movie-goers.

David Whiteley

A jewel of an indie cinema, one of Ottawa's cultural treasures!

Vinson Bachand-Odell

All around classic cinema! Global showings.

Marc Hill

Love this old cinema with updated seats, screen and sound. First run films from around the world typically premiere here. Loads of comfortable seats to enjoy reasonably priced concession favourites after buying your cheap ticket (even cheaper with a $1 a month membership). Cash only.

Car Joh

Old theatre with old way of doing things. Their line up of films is second to none but the antiquated way of going to get your tickets is annoying as all hell. Located on Rideau Street with 0 parking, just getting there to buy your tickets is an exercise in patience. Calling in advance to ask questions about the films or whether you can buy tickets in advance is met with a recording. Don't expect a person to pick up. Once you've managed to get your tickets, you be treated to an old style movie experience, with good popcorn, (as opposed to the road salt Cineplex dumps in theirs), candy and drinks. Nothing fancy, no burgers, lounges or beers but then who cares? You're going for the movies, not the food. As mentioned the get the best films available and the theatre is rarely not sold out. So if you can overlook the lack of digital convenience and walk or drive over, this venue makes going to movies fun again.

Peggy Caldwell

Film = Bytowne! Tour the world and open your eyes ears and heart.

Morgan Holbrook

If you like classic theatres and indie films this is definitely the place to come in Ottawa area.

Rose M

Our go to theatre in Ottawa!!

Fang Ms

old but classic theater

Nancy Groen

Cute in a kitschy way. I can't say I've loved all the movies they screen, but they do certainly select some interesting films I would not have otherwise seen in a regular cinema.

Svatava Petkova

The best movie theâtre in Ottawa. Retro and always good movies playing.

Juan Carlos Rogeau

(Translated) Why is classic, for some, synonymous with old? Classic is remembering and dreaming in a time that is perhaps better than ours. Cinema of my childhood, which, thanks to everyone's support, continues to spread the good of an art that has been making us dream for years. Thanks ByTowne (Original) ¿Por qué lo clásico, para algunos, es sinónimo de viejo? Clásico es recordar y soñar en una época que quizás es mejor que la nuestra. Cine de mi niñez, que gracias al apoyo de todos, sigue difundiendo lo bueno de un arte que lleva años haciéndonos soñar. Gracias ByTowne

Steeve McArdle

Movies too expensive

Kyla Carson

Lots of parking, accessible by bus and great movies.

Nick Hopewell

Had a great time here watching some animated shorts. Theater is lovely.

Ryan Resmer

Sticky /dirty floors. Uncomfy seats. But why would a theatre so focused on “good film” have a scratched screen?!?! But friendly staff. Barely a pass. :(

Michel Routhier

Old school movie theater with unique selection of films....love it!

Chris C

Situated in an older theatre that has a certain old timey charm. Tickets are cheap and the concession is reasonable. A great place for an inexpensive date or night out.

Maggie Hutchinson

Yummy snacks and great movie options. Always show lots of Oscar movies before the show and have affordable membership options.

Forrest Vetter Wilson

Nice place for a movie

Earl Snider

Excellent choice of films. Nice venue. Parking nearby.

Davide Piras

Cool place, b side movies, very interesting!

Colin Sauve

A very genuine experience. I really enjoyed this theaters classic look and feel. The chairs certainly need to be replaced. I hope gems like this in the city last forever!

Gordon Platt

Great cinema; great place.

Mike Martinescu

It's a quaint theatre that shows art house and foreign films. Decent prices. They only accept cash and they don't clean very thoroughly between showings.

Paul Norman

Old school! Can't beat cheap.

Steven Wright

Good movies, good atmosphere!

Matush Hodul

Small local cinema, showing excellent movies.

Kat D

Old style movie watch for new movies.

Canoe Heaven

Good selection of foreign and indie films

John Kirkwood

Awesome independent films, lower prices including snacks, comfy seats, and real service (friendly staff, email to enthusiasts, dynamic calendar). My fave theatre.

C. D.

I really love going to Bytowne Cinema. They always have really interesting films that are often not available elsewhere in Ottawa. It is a single theatre, which is endearing to me. I would say that the theatre and what films they play are generally geared towards adult film buffs. The place can sometimes feel a bit pretentious, but at the end of the day their prices are fair. What else can I mention? The decor is vintage and understated. The washrooms are clean. Oh, and a special shout out to the woman at the food service area who always puts the change on the counter. Such dedication to food handling safety. c;

Denis Rooney

How to you expect me to rate a place I walk by almost every day!

Eli Edgar

first time here, retro love it

Chris Chase

Great movies, and the best popcorn in Ottawa.

Christina Hache

Best pop Corn and service I've seen in a long time! Different movies than the usual block Busters, I like the difference and opportunities!

David Scrimshaw

Great movies. No ads. Considerate staff.

Frank Tersigni

The ByTowne Cinema is a great theatre like they used to be. What it lacks in bells and whistles it makes up for in featuring films you can't see in the larger theatres. It also attracts a clientele that appreciate film and movies and the art behind them.

josh loucks

Keep showing great films!

josh loucks

Keep showing great films!

Alec MacDonald

This place is awesome. Great prices on EVERYTHING, and the quality of the food and picture is great. Seats are super comfy too :)

André Chabot

(Translated) For quality cinema (Original) Pour du cinéma de qualité

Brandon Boyd

Good selection of films, they butter the popcorn as you’d like, friendly staff. Membership is easily worth it.

Emad Fadel

Dirty

Bobby SHARKS

Halloween Rocky horror picture show is time less fun. a great experience for anyone 16 plus. fun to see the younger generation experience this timeless Wonder.

Carmen & Chris Hughes

We regularly walk to the ByTowne to enjoy movies. We love the ambience of the theatre, and they make great popcorn. Best of all though is the quality of films that are offered.

Jonathan Ball

One of the original single screen theatres in town. Consistently good content, staff are super passionate about movies and doing it right.

Martin Wright

Treasure

Emiliano Busby

(Translated) Ottawa’s True Independent Arts & Essay Cinema! Popcorns are fresh, delicious, and so cheap. The new seats are soft and spacious. The international film offer reminds us of the calm and serene European cinema experience. Too bad everything is cash despite the ATM. The only less practical side. For parking, the Loblaws next door can help you out for just a few dollars. (Original) Le véritable cinéma indépendant d’arts et d’essais d’Ottawa ! Les popcorns sont frais, délicieux et tellement bon marché. Les nouveaux sièges sont moelleux et spacieux. L’offre de films internationaux nous rappellent l’expérience de cinéma européen calme et serein. Dommage que tout soit cash malgré l’ATM. Le seul côté moins pratique. Pour le stationnement, le Loblaws à côté pourra vous dépanner pour seulement quelques dollars.

NerdIAm

Loved the atmosphere, and i can only imagine the history it holds. I love how they've managed to work through the unusual circumstances this pandemic has created, and honestly would rather prefer to only go see movies here during this time.

Stephanie Begin

Lovely spot to watch indie movies! They offer club cards.

Brian p Peter

Great place

paul saint paul

it's a big place. nice although one time I saw an animation festival there and didn't like sitting in the very back as it is a HUGE place. great to see a film, beats watching it on your phone

Pierre Couffon

Fantastic old school cinema. Love the balcony

Pierre Couffon

Fantastic old school cinema. Love the balcony

Patrick Bigelow

Quaint and cozy

Renaude Laberge-Boisjoli

Thanks for the wonderful work to the Bytowne team!

Libby Hsiao

You won't find stadium seating or the latest blockbuster features in IMAX or 3D. What you will get are a great selection of independent and foreign films that has been clearly hand picked and curated by a staff that cares about film. This is what a true cinema experience should feel like with films attuned to visual storytelling rather than trying to just wow you with effects. One of the first things I do whenever I settle back into the city is purchase a membership!

Brad Phillips

Old time-y theater showing films you won't see playing at your local megaplex. Bathe in the nostalgia. The popcorn smell! The sticky floors! The slightly uncomfortable and low seating!

Arseni Kritchever

Just about the only old fashioned cinema theater in Ottawa that still plays world cinema, art house cinema and documentaries. Cash only.

Sebastian Kluth

ByTowne Cinema is an old movie theatre in the same style as Mayfair Theatre in the south. It focuses on critically acclaimed movies that are rarely shown in regular cinemas. The location also participates in film festivals. You can buy tickets, snacks and drinks in a lobby. Restrooms are in the back of the only screening room. This giant room offers a lot of space for several hundred viewers. Seats are old but comfortable. Image and sound are great. Ticket prices for children under twelve are six dollars, members pay eight dollars and all other people have to pay twelve dollars per movie.

Frédérick Tremblay

Great Ottawa institution showing the best independent and international films. Staff is always pleasant and concession is reasonably-priced. With a single projection room, presentations tend to quickly rotate out. So, make sure to consult their calendar. The physical space is extremely charming, but the seats are definitely showing their age especially in terms of comfort.

Simon Hudson

A brilliant independent cinema showing strong films often ignored by the characterless multiplexes

Khiya Hillyard

I absolutely love going to the Bytowne! Always shows the best independent films, popcorn is the best and cheapest in the city, and tickets are really affordable for students if you get the membership. Would rather spend my money at this theatre than any of the Cineplex theatres in Ottawa.

Jack Hickey

I’ve been in Ottawa for several years and only visited the ByTowne Cinema very recently. I wish I had gone earlier! It’s a great little cinema, I highly recommend that anyone in Ottawa should go at least once just for the experience. Not many old-style single-screen cinemas left. Very reasonably priced (cheaper than Cineplex). Only downside is that parking is difficult.

jupiter cookson

Has the feel of a classy old theatre

Mark B

We don't make enough opportunities to come here but we really enjoyed our evening out.... And the popcorn is really really good.

Le Voguer Joane

(Translated) It was our first outing to the movies since the start of covid. The film was good and especially to know that the health measures were followed with a lot of rigor. Thank you. (Original) C'était notre 1ère sortie au cinéma depuis le début du covid. Le film était bon et surtout de savoir que les mesures de santé étaient suivies avec beaucoup de rigueur. Merci.

Serguei “Serge” Obolenski

Lack of designated parking (paid would be ok)

Luciano Lavoie

Only found out about this place today. My wife and kids are moving to the area next year and are now hoping that someone re-opens this theatre after this pandemic! Looks like a gem! Sad it's closing... Fingers crossed!

Kelsi Mann

Nice place, seats could be more comfortable

Demetri Papas

Love it, cinema is huge and the snacks are the best. I love watching films here! Would be better if they had slushies

Demetri Papas

Love it, cinema is huge and the snacks are the best. I love watching films here! Would be better if they had slushies

Brian Voss

A unique, old style cinema. Interesting, short run movies. Hope it continues to remain viable for a long time.

Sandy Foote

Great repertoire theatre

John Forsythe

Large single screen indie theatre with recently upgraded seats. Plays smaller films and second-run features. Memberships available.

El Houlding

I love this place. Buy a membership.

Markus Lemm

Great local cinema. Amazing selection of foreign and art house movies. Staff is also very friendly.

Mat Grandmaitre

Never a complaint about this cinema! Great selection of movies, popcorn is cheap and tasty and movie quality and sound are up to par. Plus supporting small local business makes you feel good inside!

Matthew Spencer

Good movies but suboptimal wheelchair accessibility (washroom doors are extremely narrow and companion seating is just plain flat chairs instead of cinema seats).

Victor Lukyniuk

Good movie theater, has a nice selection to chose from.

Amanda Barros

Great movies and the place has very nice and vintage decor, I love it!

Amanda Barros

Great movies and the place has very nice and vintage decor, I love it!

Leo Lee

An old fashion cinema house. Good size and the seats are comfortable. It specializes in films not shown by the main distributors like foreign films.

Sabrina Barker

Our favourite movie theatre

Fiona G Marshall

Best rep theatre in Ottawa

Nathalie Lapointe

Our treat and favorite theatre because of their well curated movie line up. Purchase an anual membership for $20. and your fee to get in is $8. They have the best pop corn! Two stories old fashion seating with all new seats on the ground floor. Handicap acces

Aaron Curtis

Old style theatre with charm. Indie films and foreign movies.

Jon Moore

A staple of the Ottawa scene. Great movies, great people

James Poortinga

Best place to go for art films and selections from foreign countries. Classic setup. Seats a little dated.

Jacqueline La Rocque

Great movies, comfortable seats and excellent popcorn - what more can you ask for!

John Koensgen

Just a treasure! Affordable movie experience

L D

Enjoyed watching movies in this cinema... Was typically always busy and has a lot of character and charm.

Katy Watts

Showcases movies and documentaries from around the world. Tip - get the popcorn with butter. The best in the city!

Thiago brandão peres

A beautiful and charming cinema. I've an amazing experience watching Lady Bird

Patient Bahizire

Come see it for once

Allan Pérez

I loved the film selections in this place, a lot of independent movies and good features.

Doug Slater

Always enjoy watching a movie here, great independant cinema. And the popcorn is delicious.

sc sulli

Great selection of films

Leo Hamilton

Great place for movies that you don't usually get to see on the big screen around here. Tickets are a good price if you have a membership (which is really cheap and easy to get), and the concessions are reasonably priced. The staff is great, except for this bald guy who works the box office sometimes. Both times I've dealt with him, he's been rude.

Jon Fleig

It was nice to see some films in a theatre again, after two years of deprivation. The restroom was spotless.

Jason Carey

Great movies & prices.

b zecler

only repertory art movie theatre in town.

Sabrina S.

The only cinema in downtown Ottawa, they show indy movies and have a concession stand, very professional owners and staff

Sean LeBlanc-he, him

Great place, excellent place to see films you won't see elsewhere

Sarah Kennedy

Always a great selection of great quality, interesting, indie films. No Hollywood!!

Harry Musson

Unique and popular for decades. The clientele always restores my hope for the world when there is some spontaneous reaction to a movie.

Genevieve L

Great movies. I enjoy this theater.

Erica Ouimet

Went here for the first time. It was so beautiful :)

Tom Clegg

Best movie theatre ever. Big fan since the eighties. Independent, friendly, and an excellent source of films I wouldn't have even heard of otherwise.

Ari Rosberg

One of the gems of the Ottawa community.

Sunny Stephen

Saw 2001 Space Odyssey here for the special 50th Anniversary. Great :)

Laurent De Serres Bérard

Big and good place for movies lovers other than blockbusters. A bit noisy though

Israël legault

Amazing movie lineup

UNCLE BOB

Not impressed.....staff did not seem very Happy

Jason C.

An older style cinema that still has a certain charm to it. The only downside is that for some reason, they only accept cash payments, which is rather inconvenient for those of us who rarely carry cash now days. They do have a bank machine in the lobby, but still, in this day and age there's no excuse for not having a debit card machine at the box office and snack counter. That being said, still a nice cinema to catch some of the more obscure films.

Jessey Rice

Attended the band mountain film festival here in jan 2020. The venue is well taken care of and can homd a reasonable amount of people. Prices are affordable and the theatre is only a short walk from the Rideau LRT station.

SAP Consulting

Best independent theatre in the area. Old school & old look with charm.

Greg Dugan

I will be checking this place again really good time cheap fun.

Tommy McNally

Great cinema, I liked the treatment of your staff too much, the attention they gave us was too good, I was very comfortable with this cinema, a greeting to Pablo.

diane larochelle

(Translated) The best place in Ottawa for foreigners (Original) Le meilleur endroit à Ottawa pour les etrangers

Matthew Stancek

Well priced, staff is friendly, they often show interesting films

Mark Buckshon

I hate the old building and outdated cash only systems but sometimes it has great movies you can't see elsewhere

Alexandre Rheault

(Translated) Good selection of auteur films. (Original) Bonne sélection de films d'auteurs.

Glenn

Minus one star because it's cash only

Gregor Campbell

Support local cinema!

Elie Merheb

Very nice place featuring movies not typically shown in regular cinemas. Huge cinema with over 650 seatings

Pascal BAILLOU

This good old theater send you directly in the past

Jonathan Jones

Good variety of new and old films. Also special interest films, Ads and Shorts collections from time to time.

Steffani Cameron

I heart the ByTowne. Good popcorn, good movies, good people, good prices. But don’t forget, cash only! And get there early for 7:00 movies because lines can be long. People adore this theatre for a reason. Keep it alive, support the ByTowne. :)

Stefan Domaradzki

Great movie selection and popcorn. All around a great experience

Tony Michel

Ottawa's best repertoire theatre, with best selection of independent and international films. Great popcorn too. Buy a membership! If I could take off half star I would because it's cash only with ATM

Nathan Primeau

Good films are shown here that you won't see in many other theatres.

Ryan

Very nice single screen theatre offering viewings of movies one may otherwise miss. Comfortable seating and fair prices.

Kyle Rheaume

Small but nice theatre, seats are comfortable

Marian Zamfir-Enache

Lovely feeling given by an old, yet refurbished cinema, and very good, artistic movies

n'importe qui

(Translated) A beautiful marginal theater (Original) Un beau théâtre marginal

D'Lia Müller

I like this theatre because of its charm, but obviously it has its quirks. They were playing a movie I wanted to see that no one else had, but I didn't like that it's cash only.

Ghyslain Laramée

All ways a good experience. Staff top nutch.

I. Potkonjak

I will go there again

Alex Valiquette

We watched ads

Antoine Dumas (Amloiandy)

Love this place.

Lisanne Rheault

(Translated) The best films in Ottawa in a room with an atmosphere and old style! (Original) Les meilleurs films à Ottawa dans une salle qui possède atmosphère et cachet ancien!

François Moreau-Parent

Great old cinema with all sorts of different movies. Nothing mainstream. Awesome experience.

Shelley Dempsey

It was okay but not a great as the Mayfair no concessions ???? had to go to the circle k.. not fun! It's just not a night at the cinema without buttered popcorn ????????

NM

Old school theatre with one screen. Good popcorn. Sweets are a bit overpriced. They only have pepsi! Get a member's pass if you plan to go often to save some money. Plays some classic films, new films, oscar nominees, indie films and foreign films.

Guy Belleperche

Great films at a good price.

Antonio B.S.M.G

When I was attending film school at Carleton university. Sometimes I would make a stop here (or Mayfair theatre) to watch films you would not normally see in the main stream theatres. Seen allot of great films. The vibe here is amazing. Tends to be like minded cinema enthusiasts who want to see something different besides what is playing at the bigger cinema"s. Good to know they are still operating.

Dave McQueen

Very nice experience. Good to see a large crowd for a very good movie.

Deborah Skepple

The theatre was clean, the staff were friendly and the design was true vintage. Also, the movie Peanut Butter Falcon was excellent. Wonderful experience.

Patrick Ferguson

Been going to the Bytowne for over 30 years (cause I am old), it's always been a cool retro theatre to go watch movies in... Some are new runs, some are a little older but always with an intelligent and artistic flair. Movie, memberships, and snacks there are pretty reasonable also... Try to support these places to keep them around! They don't necessarily show main stream movies but if you are looking for something fun and interesting they have it!

André Tremblay

Movie that you don't see elsewhere. No horror, no superhero. Good movies.

David rahy

It needs lots of work

Norman de Bellefeuille

Last of the independents. Nice selection of films. It's the audience though. Now retired former civil servants that listen to the CBC,read Canlit, and or mysteries and write cranky letters to the cinema staff complaining that the sound of popping corn disturbs their movie experience.

Michael Jenkin

Great place for independent and foreign films.

Jessica Wilson

Always has great independant or foreign films in. A fun alternative to a standard movie theatre.

Carter Jansen

My recent experience at this place was amazing! the staff were exceptional and the movies they showed are not big Hollywood blockbusters but hidden gem movies that are not offered anywhere else. Even though this theater doesint have the modern recliner seating or fancy arcade, it has a old-age style that is really impressive!

Ellen Bell

Love the Bytowne.

John Anderson

Expensive! Used to be able to see unique movies at a reasonable price. Movies may still be unique, but the prices are not. Heavy service charge to use a credit card for on-line advance purchase. Sales tax on concession purchases

Christelle PERRAUD-PARIS

(Translated) Independent cinema, in an old-fashioned room, be careful do not take the bank card ... (Original) Cinéma indépendant, dans une salle à l'ancienne, attention ne prennent pas la carte bancaire...

Ibrahima Diop

Ring the bell after 10mn waiting...

Giorgio Huawei

Good old fashioned Cinema showing great movies. A must for cinéphiles. Best movie place in Ottawa. El mejor cine en Ottawa.

Ruthie Cranston

Saw a cool foreign film here. Nice

Max Prokopenko

Great cinema vibe, cash only but ATM onsite

rob russell

Always good movies

David Paterson

Old school movie theatre.

Noah Doucette

Best cinema in ottawa

Pierre Chene

(Translated) The Bytowne cinema is a repertory movie theater whose programming is varied and really excellent! It has everything: fiction films, documentaries and animated films from several countries. Both the Americas, as in Europe, Africa and Asia! It was also the opportunity to see early vegetables or projected works exclusively before the great halls commercial channels !! Example: new films by Pedro Almodovar. In short, the Bytowne is a must for people who love high quality movie-programming !! (Original) Le cinéma Bytowne est une salle de cinéma de répertoire dont la programmation est très variée et vraiment excellente! On y présente de tout: films de fiction, documentaires et films d'animation en provenance de plusieurs pays. Aussi bien des Amériques, que d'Europe, d'Afrique et d'Asie! On a aussi la possibilité d'y voir des primeurs, soit des œuvres projetées en exclusivité, avant les grandes salles des circuits commerciaux!! Exemple : nouveaux films de Pedro Almodovar. Bref, le Bytowne est un incontournable pour les personnes aimant une ciné-programmation de haute qualité!!

Mark Hayward

Loved this place - I’m really hoping for a Bytowne 2.0 post-covid, it’s a great venue and the film selections was awesome

maria sol fernandez

Vintage cinema. Good movies. But doesn't accept credit cards. Only cash.

Tom Giddings

Where we go for movies that make us think Buy tickets online now so using credit/debit. Also now available at the box office. COVID precautions make us feel safe there. Lots of precautions like taped off seats, organized exiting after the films. No need to slide in front of anyone to get to your seats. Movies that make us think.

Martha Musgrove

The Bytowne shows the films you want to see, and they listen to their customers!

Hanneke Boadway

Great movies, to my taste. Good location for me. Reasonably priced.

Alex Gleb

A very pleasant experience

Charlie Brady

A real treasure. Many fine memories. Heartbroken to know that it is closing.

donald morkis

Excellent variety of foreign films, a well maintained old cinema with friendly staff and yummy affordable popcorn and a flyer with a 2 month calendar of upcoming movies and a description of each movie.

Angela Kuester

Old theatre with nice big screen. Cash only but there is a cash machine. Best part is REAL butter on the popcorn!

Eileen Dooley

Great old style theatre, cheap prices and good off the beaten track films.

Joey Anderson

This is a relaxing night out for any movie enthusiast.

Désiré Rioux

Great place to watch critically-acclaimed movies. The cinema is well maintained, clean, and the staff are courteous. It is also beneficial to grab your membership pass to take advantage of a cheaper entry fee. However, your membership is a card, and if you loose it you will need to buy a new one. It would be a good idea if Bytowne Cinema developed a mobile application where clients could store their membership cards and access the movie calendar: a proactive use of technology could better serve Bytowne’s clientele.

Alex Laney

Always interesting movies. Good popcorn, good seats, local beer. Good times

Gary King

Except for extreme circumstances, I only see films at the Bytowne. Independent, the best films, great venue, downtown. Any confectioner that happily hands you a cup of tap water - no charge - can price candy bars and popcorn any amount it chooses.

JOHANNES BOS

Great selection of independent movies.

Huguette S Bureau

(Translated) Very well (Original) Très bien

Joe Cecile

They tuned up my old bike the fall and said I could come back if anything felt wrong. I did bring it in on Friday, October 5. The shop was busy but the only person in the shop went to great efforts and time to retune my bike. It's great now. Thanks !

Jordan B

Great for classics. Good old fashioned salty popcorn

Bill Bustin

Great clean theatre that shows the best movies

Stephane Boisjoli

I love how this cinema plays foreign and unusual films, and how the popcorn prices are more reasonable.

Mario Posiitano

Great traditional theatre.

Michel Cardin

Love that older cinema! Comfortable!

Rod Utting

Great movie selection. Irritating cash only policy Need to line up outside in the cold. Must purchase a membership, otherwise admission quite expensive

Thomas Grasza

By all means like time had stopped as it feels like the mid eighties..very cool place to watch unusual film's from the entire world...

Jeremy Ashe

Huge screen, real butter, paper straws, great Canadian indie film.

Lillian Kruzsely

Popcorn is super, probably best I've ever had. Ticket prices are too steep though. They used to do pay-what-you can shows, but haven't seen one of those come around in over a year.

Knut Menard

Great atmosphere and service !

Emily Black

Wonderful single screen theatre in Ottawa town centre. Excellent selections of movies. Cash payment only. Good range of inexpensive food offerings. One of Ottawa's treasures.

Jenna Parks-Thomas

Everything about this wonderful theatre is perfect. Everyone in Ottawa should be grateful that a theatre like this still exists and go as much as possible.

Jamieson Robertson

Back open again - with excellent spacing protocols.

Patrick Laberge

(Translated) Too bad it closes permanently (Original) Dommage qu'il ferme définitivement

Susan S

Absolutely wonderful and shall be missed.

Abhishekh Devendar

Really liked the place! Pleasant experience living the theatre-experience of the good old days!

Hassan Elghayesh

Awesome art house cinema in Ottawa ...I have seen here movies from all over the world ... Very reasonably priced and they have a membership that gives a very good discount ... The cinema hall is quite big for an art house cinema ... Great sound and picture as well

André Gagnon

(Translated) Original movies, cinema as art. (Original) Original movies, cinéma as art.

cathcartsquare

A gem of a "period" theatre with comfy seats and friendly staff where we can enjoy good films at a reasonable price (especially with a membership card).

Roman Arkhipov

Cozy and atmospheric, went to see Parasite there. Highly recommend for movies you won't find in big chains

Kaylie Chen

The best and cheapest popcorn ($4.75 for a large) as well as a classic atmosphere.

Andrew Watson

Great to have such a lovely repertory movie house

liardon1

My happy place in Ottawa. Great movies, great popcorn, great prices, great ethics. You'll see what I mean!

Olivia Cb

Wonderful movies

Michael Kervin

This is one of the few Ottawa institutions that is still going strong.

William Couch

I love good flicks. That's why this is the only cinema to which I go.

Jaybee Tee

The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is good, and the movies are great. But I WISH they'd accept debit. Cash only is a pain. If they don't want to deal with lines, online advance purchases might work too.

Derek Zeisman

Great cinema, great films, great buttery popcorn! Highly recommend for some of the best movies in town!

Marc De Vleeschauwer

(Translated) The best cinema in town! (Original) Le meilleur cinéma en ville!

Karen Ellis

Expensive.

Lorna Mata

I had an annual membership, so got the member discount, affordable 2nd run older movies, cult classics, documentaries, foreign films etc... Downtown location, highly recommended. It had closed during the pandemic, but has now reopened.

Geoff Craig

Great theatre

scott Thompson

Have not been here in years...forgot how much I lovd the old Theater..They show all the foreign films that I love...I will be back

Norman de Bellefeuille

Good movies,populated by retired cranky civil servants that only read can lit , listen to the CBC and constantly complain in the suggestions column in their bi-weekly program

Geoffrey Ferguson

Favourite cinema in Ottawa

Louise Deneault

(Translated) The Bytowne is the best cinema in town for any moviegoer curious to see the best films that occur in the world. It's our cinema. (Original) Le Bytowne est le meilleur cinéma en ville pour tout cinéphile curieux de voir les meilleurs films qui se produisent au niveau mondial. C’est notre cinéma.

Dustyn Kerr

Super cool old theatre

Cobe Rabb

I Love this place

Michael Robinson

Great repertory cinema. Old and big. Cheap!

Jean L

Great classic movie theater. Excellent movie choices and a great staff. For those who hate the MEGA MOVIE COMPLEX style, this is the place to go!

David Bruce Scott

Great cinema. Great movies. Great atmosphere - no screaming kids, just a respectful group of cinema goers! Just like the good ol' days!!

Stratos Tsompanellis

If it wasn't for the seats, it deserves a five star

Mary Rose Jerade

Absolutely wonderful theatre! It only has one screen and they have a monthly schedule that is full of all sorts of movies. Prices are reasonable and everything is so traditional. Takes you back to the simpler times of theatre

Marcia Gilliatt

Old style theatre. Good cheap popcorn!?

Tristan Cannon-Sherlock

Phenomenal little cinema offering a wide selection of films at reasonable prices. Lots of foreign language films, indie films etc.

Daniela Oey

Great movie selection and friendly staff.

Karen L

loved it

Neven Salihagic

Best international selection and best popcorn in Ottawa.

Marie-Claude Carrière

(Translated) I love programming, however I regret the cold welcome without a smile or impatient at the checkout. To speed up the process it may be more beneficial for the homeowner to modernize the payment method, rather than sighing in anticipation of the customers' money. In addition a simple Hello and thank you with a smile would also be very appreciated! (Given the number of French-speaking customers) ???? (Original) J' adore la programmation , cependant je déplore l' accueuil froid sans sourire voire impatient à la caisse. Pour accélérer le processus ce serait peut-être plus profitable au propriétaire de moderniser le mode de paiement, plutôt que de soupirer dans l' attente de l' argent des clients. De plus un simple Bonjour et Merci agrémentés d' un sourire serait aussi très apprécié! (Compte tenu du bon nombre de clients francophones) ????

Emilie Comtois-Rousseau

Great selection. Cheap tickets. Love the Bytowne :-)