Our History

The Prewitt’s story began in 1927, when it first opened its doors as a grand movie theater in the heart of downtown Plainfield, Indiana. With its art deco charm and classic marquee, the theater was a beloved community hub for decades—hosting everything from Saturday matinees to first dates and family nights out.

After closing in the 1980s, the historic building sat quietly for years—its bright lights dimmed, but not forgotten. In 2021, after nearly a century of stories, the Prewitt was brought back to life. A thoughtful restoration preserved the building’s vintage character while reimagining it for a new era of gathering, dining, and entertainment.

Downtown Plainfield, Indiana showing the buildings on the south side of U.S. 40. Left to right are the Knights of Pythias brick building (115 West Main Street), Village Theater (showing the movie Matrix) at 119 West Main Street, the former First National Bank Building at 121 West Main Street, and the Plainfield Masonic Building at 125 West Main Street.

Buildings located at 115 West Main Street and 119 West Main Street, Plainfield, Indiana. Knights of Pythias 3-story brick building, alongside the Village Theater (Prewitt Theater). Partially visible is the First National Bank on the left and the Plainfield Masonic Building on the right.

View of Main Street in Plainfield, Indiana, looking east. Businesses visible include the Village Theater, First American National Bank, Plainfield Town Tavern, Freedom Press, and a furniture store.The movies "Black Cauldron" and "Prizzi's Honor" are shown on the Village marquee.

Downtown Plainfield, Indiana in 1972. Hardin Heating and Air Conditioning sign in foreground. The movie theater marquee features "A Separate Peace" and "Bad Company". The Plainfield Jaycees and Mary Carter Paints signs hang outside the Knights of Pythias building. One man is walking west along the sidewalk. This view is from the corner of North Vine Street looking toward the Center Street intersection along Main Street/U.S. 40. Stores include Edna Blanton's Pie Shop, Havens Insurance, Package Liquors.

View of the southeast corner of Main and S. Center Streets in Plainfield, Indiana. Morris Cafe on the corner housed in the Masonic building and the Prewitt Theater is visible. "Fried or baked chicken dinner 60 cents" in the west window of the cafe. Roadwork or sidewalk work is being done at the corner.

Located at 119 West Main Street, Plainfield, Indiana, was Prewitt’s Motor Sales where owner Joseph Prewitt also sold Goodrich tires. The service station was in a prime location on the National Road to provide assistance to travelers. Prewitt eventually turned his auto store into a movie theater in 1927.

The Prewitt Theatre, 119 West Main Street, Plainfield, Indiana. The theater marquee posters show the movies "Julia Misbehaves" and "Melody Time", both of which came out in 1948.

The band director leads the band in a musical selection while the crowd of onlookers and flag bearers (Gordon Hobbs in plaid shirt) stand along Main Street (US 40) in Plainfield, Indiana. Hundley's Dry Goods and Prewitt Theater in background. This is 1945 after the was ended

Who We Are Today

Today, The Prewitt is a modern-day destination where timeless ambiance meets elevated experiences. Part restaurant, part lounge, and part live entertainment venue, we offer more than just a night out—we deliver an experience that is worth the trip.

Whether you're sipping a craft cocktail under the glow of the marquee, enjoying a locally inspired meal in the dining room, or listening to live music in the lounge, The Prewitt invites you to slow down, connect, and savor the moment. We’re proud to honor our roots while creating new memories for the next generation.