Blockbusters and burkas, booze and tasty bites, bells and whistles -- Mumbai cinema halls are almost as entertaining as the movies they feature. Here are the top five cinemas in India's entertainment capital. 

Read the whole story on CNNGo.com

Liberty: Art deco landmark

Journalist Naresh Fernandes, former editor Time Out Mumbai, once described Liberty Cinema as “Mumbai’s best jazz monument." With a giant piano carved into its facade, Liberty is also considered one of the finest examples of the city’s art deco theaters. Rococo carvings, majestic cove lighting and a 2,000-seater auditorium – it’s super for when you want a side of art history to go with your popcorn and movie.

41-42 Liberty Building, Sir Vithaldas Thackersay Marg, Marine Lines; +91 (0)22 22031196; libertycinema.in; Tickets start at Rs 50.

G7: Movie theater for the masses

This old-school multiplex in Bandra (West) has seven cinema halls called Gaiety, Galaxy, Gemini, Gossip, Gem, Grace and Glamour. Locally referred to as Gaiety, Galaxy, this cinema's audience is reputed to be the ultimate barometer of whether a movie is going to be a hit or a flop across the city. This is why Bollywood’s A-listers, sometimes disguised in burkas -- yes, the men too -- flock to the grungy theater to witness the public’s reaction to their films on first day, first show.

If there's masala popcorn flying in the air and dancing in the aisles, it's a super hit.

Gaiety Galaxy Cinema, TPS 3rd, SV Road, Near Railway Colony, Bandra West; +91 (0) 22 26558285; Tickets start at Rs 55.

Ebony Lounge at Metro Big Cinemas: As plush as it gets

Book out the Ebony Lounge at Metro Big Cinemas in Dhobitalao for a private screening and score not only plush leather seating, individual blankets and a separate waiting area, but also a fully catered menu and -- here’s the kicker -- an alcohol list. Although cinemas in the city aren’t allowed to serve booze, the superheroes here have managed to secure “one-day licenses” for private events.

Shot ready?

Metro BIG Cinemas, M.G. Road, Dhobitalao Junction; +91 (0) 9323512073; www.bigcinemas.com; Tickets start at Rs 220.

Read about PVR Juhu and Phoenix and INOX Santacruz on CNNGo.com.