The early days
Local married duo Chris and Sarah Denny started with three tiny-home rentals themed after different blockbuster hits in 2017. In September 2018, they opened Doc’s Drive-In Movie Theatre on the same property.
When the pair began looking into opening a drive-in movie theater on their property, the cost was higher than they anticipated, so they came up with a creative solution.
“It was absolutely ridiculous the cost to build an old-school drive-in screen,” Chris Denny said. “So that’s why our screens are actually made out of shipping containers.”
What’s on the menu
Chris Denny said they wanted the menu to stand apart from other drive-ins. In addition to the typical concessions of popcorn and soft pretzels, Doc’s has a full menu of made-to-order burgers, wings, pizzas, hot dogs and sweets.
“We’ve actually been told our burgers are the best burgers in town,” Chris Denny said.
For those craving tacos, there is also a Tejas Birria food truck and picnic area located near the front of the property.
Looking for a libation?
A small purple building sits just beyond the movie screens. Once inside, guests will find the entrance to an immersive prohibition-themed speakeasy called Mama Merlot’s. Behind a mini-maze and a hidden door, guests descend a set of stairs to the curtained entrance of the bar.
Mama Merlot’s features a full bar, curated antique furniture and a stage. The space hosts many events throughout the month, such as drag and burlesque shows, stand-up comedy nights and a piano player every Thursday.
Because Mama Merlot’s is underground, the bar stays around 70 degrees year-round. Chris said they wanted to market something creative that was “nice and cool,” especially in the summertime.
What’s next?
Overnight options are expanding for guests who’d like to stay at Doc’s. In addition to the movie-themed tiny homes, the owners are also installing six RV hookups, which will be available next month.
- 1540 Satterwhite Road, Buda
- www.docsdriveintheatre.com
