What restaurant was Office Space filmed in? (And Other Burning Questions About This 90s Gem)
Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. Stuck in a soul-crushing job, yearning for a metaphorical stapler to take a well-deserved vacation. And who better to relate to than the disgruntled employees of Initech in the cult classic “Office Space”?
But amidst the office shenanigans and the joys of “flair,” a burning question lingers: Where exactly was Chotchkie’s, the restaurant where Jennifer Aniston, aka Joanna, slaved away in a sea of flair?
Well, buckle up, fellow office drones, because we’re about to delve into the fascinating world of “Office Space” filming locations.
The Real Chotchkie’s: A Tale of Two Restaurants
You might be surprised to learn that the “Chotchkie’s” we see in the movie isn’t a single location. The exterior shots, those showcasing the restaurant’s facade, were filmed at what is now a Chase Bank. Yes, you read that right. A bank.
But the heart of Chotchkie’s, the place where Joanna toiled away under the oppressive rule of “flair,” was actually the interior of a restaurant called The Old Alligator Grill. This Cajun-themed eatery, located at 3003 S Lamar Boulevard in Austin, Texas, served as the backdrop for those unforgettable scenes.
Fast forward to today, and the restaurant has undergone a transformation. The Old Alligator Grill is no more. It’s now called Baker Street Pub & Grill, a gastropub with an entirely different vibe. While the restaurant’s exterior might not scream “Chotchkie’s,” step inside, and you’ll be transported back in time to those iconic scenes.
From Flair to Flair (But Not the Same Kind): A Look Inside Chotchkie’s (and Baker Street Pub & Grill)
Walk into Baker Street Pub & Grill, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. Gone are the days of forced “flair” and questionable management. The restaurant boasts a casual, comfortable setting, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a casual business lunch.
However, if you know what to look for, you’ll see glimpses of Chotchkie’s past. The layout of the restaurant, the booths, the bar, all seem to echo those familiar scenes from the movie. There’s even a glimpse of the infamous “flair” wall, though the decorations are far more tasteful than what Joanna was forced to wear.
Take a seat in one of the booths, and imagine Joanna serving up a plate of “flair” to a clueless customer. Picture Ron Livingston’s Peter nervously trying to woo her with his awkward charm. It’s a fun little game to play, and one that adds a layer of nostalgia to your dining experience.
More Than Just a Restaurant: The “Office Space” Filming Locations
But the Chotchkie’s filming location is just one piece of the “Office Space” puzzle. The film was shot in various locations throughout Austin and Dallas, Texas, each contributing to the movie’s distinct aesthetic.
Here are some of the other notable locations:
- Initech’s Offices: The film’s iconic office scenes were shot at a real office building in Austin. While the exact location is a bit shrouded in mystery, it’s said to be a former warehouse converted into office space.
- The “Flair” Scenes: The scenes where Joanna is forced to wear “flair” were not filmed at Baker Street Pub & Grill, but rather at the Alligator Grill, a restaurant that predated Baker Street.
- The “Flair” Wall: The infamous “flair” wall, which is prominently featured in the movie, was actually a custom-built set. It wasn’t part of the actual restaurant’s décor.
The Lasting Legacy of “Office Space”
“Office Space” isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It’s a film that resonated with millions of viewers who felt the pain of soul-crushing jobs and the frustration of dealing with incompetent bosses. It’s a movie that gave voice to the office worker’s plight, and it continues to entertain and inspire generations of viewers.
And while the actual restaurants and offices featured in the film have evolved over time, the spirit of “Office Space” remains as relevant as ever. The film’s timeless themes of work, life, and the pursuit of happiness continue to resonate with viewers today, reminding us that even in the most mundane of settings, there’s always a glimmer of hope for something better.
So, the next time you’re in Austin, Texas, be sure to visit Baker Street Pub & Grill. Raise a glass to Joanna (and her “flair”), and you’ll be transported back to the world of “Office Space,” a movie that continues to remind us that sometimes, the best way to deal with the monotony of work is to just say “screw it” and find a way to make things a little more interesting.
