Skye Hendrix, a 33-year-old entrepreneur from Cincinnati, Ohio, is carving out a unique niche in the food and cinema industries with her innovative business, Soulful Cinema. Unlike typical ventures focused solely on one form of entertainment or dining, Hendrix’s concept combines both, offering a distinctive experience for movie and food lovers alike. At Soulful Cinema, guests can watch iconic films like Rush Hour while enjoying a menu that matches the movie's theme and cultural context.

This creative approach offers more than just a meal or a movie screening; it’s an immersive experience where food and film merge into something truly memorable. Hendrix’s idea reflects her love for cinema and culinary arts, two passions she has masterfully blended into a business that has gained attention for its originality. By pairing beloved films with carefully selected dishes that complement the storylines or setting, Soulful Cinema invites guests to engage with movies in a new and exciting way.

With her entrepreneurial spirit and a deep appreciation for both food and film, Skye Hendrix is quickly becoming a standout figure in Cincinnati's entertainment scene. Her unique vision promises to inspire others to think outside the box when it comes to blending different aspects of culture and business.

What inspired you to combine food and cinema in your business model? My inspiration came from wanting to create a space where people could enjoy two of life’s greatest pleasures—good food and great films—in a way that feels intimate and cultural. I wanted to bring a soulful experience to the community that not only entertains but connects people over shared memories and cultural representation.

How do you select the films you screen at your venue? I choose films that resonate with our culture, and community. It’s all about picking movies that spark nostalgia, conversations, or bring a unique perspective to the audience.

Can you describe your menu? How do you choose the food and beverages you serve with the films? Our menu is curated to match the vibe of the film we’re showing. For example, if we’re screening a classic, we might serve comfort foods that bring that familiar, cozy feeling. I consider what feels authentic and what would enhance the viewing experience, focusing on soulful flavors.

What challenges did you face when starting your food cinema, and how did you overcome them? Balancing the logistics of food service with cinema presentation was tricky at first. I wanted the food to enhance the experience, not distract from it. Building a solid team and getting customer feedback early on helped us refine our timing and service flow.

How do you create a unique atmosphere that enhances the food and movie experience? From music to decor, to our first customer interaction, I aim to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like stepping into a different era or place. Lighting, seating arrangements, and even scent play a role in setting the stage so that guests feel fully immersed from the moment they walk in.

Are there any particular themes or events that you find resonate well with your audience? Events centered around classic comedies, love, and some dramas. It is something that feels nostalgic and also a celebration of community.

How do you balance the culinary and cinematic experiences to ensure both are top-notch? It’s all about timing and the flow of service. The food is carefully timed around the movie experience so that guests can enjoy both without distraction. Each dish and drink is planned to enhance, not detract from, the immersion in the film.

What trends in the food and film industries do you find most exciting right now? I’m inspired by the blending of cultures in cuisine and the rise of experiential cinema. People want to feel connected to what they’re eating and watching, and I see a lot of opportunity in creating deeper, more meaningful experiences.

Can you share a memorable customer experience that highlights the magic of your concept? For our first film, we hosted a ‘White Chicks’ event, and seeing people so engaged, laughing, and reminiscing brought a lot of joy. A customer told me it felt like being at a family gathering, which captured exactly the feeling I aim to create.

How do you envision the future of food cinemas evolving? I think food cinemas will lean more into interactive and themed experiences, with menus and decor that immerse the audience even more deeply in the films. There’s also room for technology to play a bigger role, like integrating more personalized service and engagement.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own food cinema or business? Be authentic to your vision and build a community around it. Every detail matters—from food to ambiance to customer service—so think about the complete experience. And always be adaptable, willing to listen to feedback, and open to evolution.