Patrons of the AMC theater in Tilghman Square shopping center, 4608 Broadway, South Whitehall, can look forward to more than just a movie for their entertainment experience.

American Multi-Cinema Inc. is planning to implement a new food and beverage concept called MacGuffins Bar and Lounge.

Customers ages 21 and older will be able to purchase beer, wine or cocktails to consume at their seats while watching the movie.

Before installing the bar, AMC has to obtain a liquor license.

The company proposes transfer of a license from Fragnito's Place, 57 S. Second St., Coplay, to the theater.

South Whitehall commissioners voted approval of the license transfer Aug. 5.

The state Liquor Control Board must also approve the transfer.

Mark Kozar, attorney for AMC, provided some background on the company and the trend toward food and alcohol service in theaters.

He reported AMC, founded in 1920, operates 345 movie theaters, with nearly 5,000 screens, throughout the United States.

"We are planning a total redo with expanded food offering and a bar where alcohol will be served," Kozar said. "Theaters want to be a one-stop entertainment experience with food, beverage and films."

He said all servers will be well-trained and supervised by responsible managers.

"One hundred percent of alcohol purchasers will be carded and alcohol will be served in recognizable cups," Kozar said. "Alcohol sales will stop 12:30 a.m."

As no liquor license is available in South Whitehall at this time, AMC has entered into an agreement to purchase the one owned by Fragnito's Place.

Commissioner Glenn Block asked whether AMC has permits to construct MacGuffins Bar and Lounge.

Kozar said he does not know as he is involved only in the liquor license transfer.

He said the transfer is only for the AMC Tilghman Square site. If, by chance, the proposal would be dropped, the license would not be transferred.

Kozar added installation of a food and beverage lounge is a high priority for AMC, and he is certain the company will follow through.

Township Manager Howard Kutzler reported South Whitehall has no zoning prohibition on the sale of alcohol in the theater.