Two Florida cities have earned national recognition for their outstanding dinner theaters. USA Today recently announced its list of the “10 Best Dinner Theaters” in the United States, with Fort Myers and Jacksonville both securing top spots.
Broadway Palm and Dutch Apple Recognized
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers ranked No. 10 on USA Today’s prestigious list. Owned by Prather Productions, this theater has been a local favorite for over three decades. Interestingly, another Prather Productions venue, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, ranked even higher at No. 3.
Prather Productions CEO Will Prather expressed gratitude for the honor, noting the resilience and dedication of his family business, which has been part of the industry for many decades.
USA Today’s Selection Process
The 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards from USA Today celebrate excellence in travel, dining, and lifestyle. Industry experts first nominate their favorites. Then, 10Best editors finalize the list for public voting over a four-week period.
This recognition highlights an industry that has faced many challenges. In the 1990s, Florida had 10 dinner theaters. Today, only three professional dinner theaters remain. Broadway Palm and Jacksonville’s Alhambra Theatre & Dining are among the survivors.
Jacksonville’s Alhambra Theatre Takes Top Spot
Jacksonville’s Alhambra Theatre & Dining earned the No. 1 ranking. It is the oldest continuously operating dinner theater in the United States, opening its doors in the 1960s. The theater presents Broadway classics like “My Fair Lady” and “West Side Story,” alongside gourmet three-course meals. The Alhambra’s popularity often leads to sold-out shows, so early reservations are recommended.
Broadway Palm’s Rich History
The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre has entertained audiences in Fort Myers for more than 30 years. Before each show, guests enjoy buffet meals. On Fridays and Saturdays, they can also order plated dinners in the Main Theater. The menu changes with each production, and a children’s menu is available during special performances.
Recent shows have included beloved musicals such as “Annie” and “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” In January 2025, the theater staged a new production of “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story,” starring Todd Meredith.
Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre’s Unique Appeal
Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre has been delighting visitors since 1987. It offers an intimate setting with seating for 320 guests. Popular productions include “A Chorus Line,” “Hairspray,” and “The Full Monty.”
Buffet-style dining is a key part of the Dutch Apple experience. Guests also enjoy a full-service bar, making it a complete night out.
The Evolution of Dinner Theaters
Dinner theaters were once a thriving industry in the United States. However, changing entertainment preferences and economic challenges have led to a decline in their numbers. Prather noted that when he moved to Fort Myers in 1993, Florida had 10 dinner theaters. Today, only three remain.
Despite hardships like recessions and the COVID-19 pandemic, Broadway Palm, Dutch Apple, and Alhambra have survived and even thrived. They continue to grow, attract loyal audiences, and offer a unique blend of fine dining and live entertainment.
USA Today’s article praised dinner theaters as “a brilliant fusion of culture, cuisine, comfort, and community.” This combination makes them a special option for a night out.
A Boost for the Industry
The national recognition by USA Today is more than just a ranking. It brings renewed attention to an industry that blends two favorite pastimes: dining and entertainment. As theaters continue to adapt and evolve, they offer unique experiences that few other venues can match.
