OPINION: Sun-Ray Cinema near USF could be your next hangout spot

Last weekend, I visited the newly-opened Sun-Ray Cinema and I was not disappointed.
This past December, the independent, couple-owned theater relocated from Jacksonville and opened at the University Mall, replacing LOOK Dine-In Cinema.
As a self-proclaimed movie connoisseur and someone who loves going to the theaters often, I knew I had to drop in when they opened their arms to the USF and Tampa community.
Immediately when I walked in, I felt embraced.
Related: LOOK Dine-in Cinemas by USF to be replaced by Sun-Ray Cinema
When choosing a film to see on their website I was delighted to find out Sun-Ray is not only committed to showing new releases, but independent and classic films as well.
This gives students and community members a chance to catch some iconic films on the big screen. On Valentine’s Day they are doing special features of “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” and “Casablanca.” You can see whichever your lonely or lovesick heart desires.
I decided on purchasing a ticket to the 1998 comedy “The Big Lebowski” this past Saturday evening.
With the current prices of movie tickets, it’s understandable why we often choose watching movies at home instead of going out.
But luckily for our thin wallets and double-digit bank balances, Sun-Ray offers discounted prices for USF students at only $6.45.
But tickets are not the only inexpensive feature of Sun-Ray.
Their concessions are affordable too. I ordered a medium buttery popcorn for just $5 and cheese fries for $7.50.

My theater was large with plenty rows of cushy leather chairs, each one having a personal table attached.
Related: Hop in, USF students. We’re going to the movies.
Like its predecessor, Sun-Ray offers the neat experience of serving food directly to your seat. They differentiate themselves by having customers place orders at the concession counter rather than on their phones during showings.
This change eliminates distractions of annoying phone screens and waiters repeatedly entering and exiting the theater throughout the film, as your food will be brought during the previews or shortly after.
When sitting down, I observed the food others around me were eating. From nachos and pizzas to sandwiches and wine, there is something for everybody.
At first it did feel strange and weirdly fancy to be directly served, however, I decided to go with it.
By the end of the film, I left the theater impressed. But even with my pleasant outing, it is worth noting Sun-Ray is still in early stages of development and establishing a name for itself in the Tampa community.
The owners, Tim Massett and Shana David-Massett, are actively working on elevating the experience for moviegoers. The couple is updating clients online and on Instagram about some changes to come, such as recliner seating in select theaters, a rewards program, ICEE machines, a lobby makeover and upgrades in sound and picture quality.
Next time you find yourself with free time or needing a break from the books, head to Sun-Ray to enjoy a relaxing night out for more than what you pay for.
Not only will you be supporting the community, but treating yourself to a well-deserved and comfortable escape. It might even be your new stomping ground.