What is the Mystery Cafe?

The Mystery Cafe is San Diego's longest running dinner theatre. We offer an evening of freewheeling, informal fun! Our shows are murder mysteries - but that's just the outline! What we're known for is fast-paced comedy...the kind you'd watch on your favorite prime-time sitcom. But at the Mystery Cafe, YOU are seated right in the middle of the action, and may actually have a role in the performance! The Mystery Cafe is San Diego's premiere interactive dinner theatre.

 

Is It Any Good?

Now in it's 25th smash year, the Mystery Cafe is the esteemed recipient of numerous awards, including: "The Finest Service Award" - Convention & Visitors Bureau; "Best Dinner Theatre" - San Diego Magazine; "Best Murder and a Meal" - San Diego Reader; and "Best Dinner Theatre" - SD Union Tribune.

 

What sets the Mystery Cafe apart from the rest?

Our dedication to customer service and the quality actors and designers associated with each production.

 

Where are you located?

Our business mailing address is  PO Box 3856 Ramona, California 92065. Our shows are performed offsite at The Imperial House Restaurant, located at 505 Kalmia St San Diego. Please visit our contact page for directions and maps.

 

Where should I park?

There is street parking around The Imperial House, however there is also $5 valet at the restaurant, and an additional paid parking lot located just behind the restaurant for $5.

 

What's Playing Now?

We are currently showing our new hit comedy "Where There's A Will, There's A Wake". For more information, please visit our "Now Playing" page.

 

How Much Are Tickets?

Tickets are $64.50 per person, and include a three course meal, show and tax. Gratuity is not included. Please visit our Ticketing page for more information on military discounts, group rates, and other coupons.

 

Where Can I Buy Tickets?

Tickets may be purchased online on our website or over the phone at (619)460-2200.

 

I Just Bought Tickets Online...Now What?

When you purchase tickets through our website, we recieve an e-mail confirmation. We then make a reservation using the information provided when you paid, and send out a confirmation e-mail. When you recieve your confirmation email, please review our menu choices and call or e-mail them in prior to 3pm on the day you will be attending. 

 

I Want to Buy Tickets For a Friend...Do You Have Gift Certificates Available?

Yes, we do! Gift Certificates are available on our ticketing page, and are good for one year after the purchase date.

 

It's So-and-So's Birthday/Anniversary...Can We Do Something Special For Them?

We do have a normal segment during our show where we recognize anyone celebrating a special event, however if you would like to do something extra special for you celebrant, we have Celebration Packages available on our Gift Store page.

 

Can I bring My Kids?

We are a PG-PG13 type of show. We simply ask our parents to make the decision of whether the show is appropriate or not for their children. Our shows contain no vulgarity, nudity, or obsenity, however there is a TON of innuendo. Also keep in mind the show runs until about 10:30pm...It is our experience that tired children are not happy children!

 

How Long Is The Show?

The show generally runs 2-2.5 hours.

 

What Should I Wear?

We recommend clothes...but that's up to you! The normal attire is "dressy casual".

 

I'm Really Not Comfortable Being on Stage...Do I Have to Participate?

Of course not! Our actors are trained to read our guest's comfort level with interaction. You are not required to participate, however we strongly believe that you will enjoy yourself more if you keep an open mind.

 

What will I be Eating?

You can view the full menu here.

 

I'm Planning A Party...What Services Do You Offer?

From small group parties at our weekly shows, to large offsite corporate events, the Mystery cafe has you covered! We welcome you to join us for all of your special events! We currently offer group rates (8+) for our weekly shows, Private Parties at The Imperial House Restaurant (75 person minimum Please call for a quote), and Mysteries To Go, our fully customizable traveling troupe, specializing in corporate events, kid's parties (ages 9+), and holiday parties.