With a surprise ending akin to a movie, Silverspot Cinema at Mercato in North Naples will permanently close July 23 to make way for another theater chain. 

“It is with mixed emotions that we share this news. After 14 incredible years of bringing you the best in cinema, we must bid you farewell. Our last day of movie showings will be July 23,” Silverspot emailed its rewards subscribers Wednesday night. 

The move is part of the recent reboot of the local lifestyle center to reposition the 15-year-old mixed-use property near the northeast corner of U.S. 41 and Vanderbilt Beach Road as more of a community entertainment destination. 

“Silverspot’s lease expires this month, and it was a mutual decision between the two groups to part ways,” said Britni Johnson, director of public relations for North American Properties, the Atlanta-based company responsible for leasing and property management at Mercato. 

Texas-based Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, another dine-in theater concept, will replace Silverspot Cinema at Mercato. The North Naples location will be the first Florida spot for Alamo, which operates about 40 cinemas nationwide with more locations coming soon. 

Alamo Drafthouse was founded in Austin, Texas by Tim and Karrie League, who were driven by a simple passion for watching movies and enjoying food and beer, its website reports. Each Alamo Drafthouse location’s menu features burgers, pizzas, salads, snacks and desserts, as well as cocktails and beer from craft breweries. 

Miami-based Silverspot Cinema pioneered the concierge movie-house concept in the nation and chose Mercato for the first of its seven locations when it debuted in September 2009, joining Whole Foods Market as an anchor of Mercato. The luxury cinema, which has hosted the Naples International Film Festival, was a local game-changer with a full bar, a chic lounge, a gourmet menu with table service and theaters with leather seats. 

A spinoff of the Venezuela-based Cines Unidos chain, Silverspot Cinema has been the only business in that second-floor suite at 9118 Strada Place. In 2013, Silverspot expanded by nearly 7,500 square feet with the addition of a 12th screen, enlarged bar and lounge areas and more concession stations. 

A few of the Naples residents attending the Wednesday night showing of the film “Sound of Freedom,” said they were disappointed to hear about Silverspot’s closing. 

“I have four kids and this is where my son, who’s 15, and a bunch of his buddies come here and watch movies,” said Jennifer Samuels. “We always come here because it’s nice to go and have dinner then come across the street and watch a movie. It’s a wonderful place to come. I’m so sad. We will definitely miss it.” 

Pablo Camacho and his wife, Evelyn, also have been frequent patrons of Silverspot. The 27-year residents of Naples have been patronizing the business since it opened. 

“We like to come like twice a month pretty much. Every time there’s a good movie, we come. This is a place that we want,” Camacho said. “The food is good. It’s a great place. I don’t know why they decided to close. It is bad news.” 

In its farewell letter emailed Wednesday and posted on its website, Silverspot thanked its local staff and patrons for being a part of its cinematic journey. 

“We would like to express our deep gratitude to our exceptional team — the driving force behind the smiles and joy experienced by our cherished guests. Your unwavering dedication and shared passion have been vital to our success. We will be forever grateful for each one of you,” according to the letter sent to Mercato film lovers. “To our guests: It’s been an honor to share our passion for movies with all of you, and we thank you for your support over the years.” 

Silverspot answered questions on its website about redeeming gift cards and rewards program points. “You have until July 23 to redeem them at the Naples location,” the company reports. “They are redeemable for movie tickets, food and drinks at any Silverspot Cinema location.” 

The points and gift cards, which may be redeemed online through the Silverspot app, website or in person at the cinema, do not expire. “You can continue to use them at any of our other locations. Your loyalty points and gift cards retain their value,” the company reports.