The theater owners originally did n't want to serve food , believing it was low - class . Munching on peanuts and popcorn during a show was low-class , they believed , associated with the circus and the burlesque house . After Great Depression , they rented concession stands , eventually selling them . Premium screening rooms offered cocktails , wine lists , $ 17 and sandwiches .
The theater owners originally did n't want to serve food , believing it was low - class . After Great Depression , they rented concession stands , eventually selling them . Premium screening rooms offered cocktails , wine lists , $ 17 and sandwiches .