On the heels of the announcement that Barcelino will shutter its pricey men’s wear store at Redmond Town Center on Jan. 27, we checked on the status of Village Roadshow Gold Class Cinemas, the upscale movie theater/restaurant/bar concept which opened at the Town Center on Halloween 2008.

In spite of an abysmal economy and movie ticket prices that run between $22 and $32 per person (not including food or beverages), the cinemas have found a following, according to Whitney Ashley of The Rose Group, a Los Angeles-based public relations firm.

“We have had several thousand visitors to the Gold Class Redmond location,” Ashley said. “We have also had many patrons from greater Seattle who are visiting Redmond to experience Gold Class. “We knew people would be impressed by Gold Class Cinemas since there is no other theater quite like it …” or at least not in this area.

The swanky cinemas have long been popular overseas and the first U.S. location opened in a suburb of Chicago shortly before the Redmond location launched.

“Visitors have been blown away by their experience, often stating that they are hooked on the service, cuisine and atmosphere they receive at Gold Class,” Ashley said. “Our repeat business has been excellent. We are finding that even people who do not regularly attend movie theaters are coming frequently, as we are providing an environment that is a lot more in line with what they expect in terms of quality and service.”

The smaller cinemas are set up like private screening rooms, with two-by-two reclining lounge seats and plenty of room in-between. Gourmet food, fine wine and cocktails are available — and wait staff will appear at the touch of a call button.

The James Bond film “Quantam of Solace” has been the most popular entertainment draw, so far. “Australia,” “Gran Torino” and “Yes Man” have also been huge favorites with the Redmond patrons.

Most-requested menu items include the Kobe Beef Burgers and steak sandwich, as well as two local beers, Manny’s Pale Ale and Mac & Jack’s.

The Gold Class Cinemas are offering a Valentine’s Day package for $159 per couple. That includes admission to the movie of your choice on Feb. 14, three shared courses, two glasses of wine or champagne and a hand or neck massage, compliments of Modern Mia Salon & Spa and chocolates.

All seats at the Gold Class Cinemas are reserved in advance. Visit www.goldclasscinemas.com or call (425) 636-5601.