I've lived in the neighborhood for while, but never tried out AMC Esplanade until a few weeks ago. We'd always go to Harkins or Studio Movie Grill out of habit. And while I really like the quality of the theater and the location, the food leaves much to be desired.
First off, I love being able to pick my seats online ahead of time. We use the AMC app to book our tickets, which also allows us to get points through their AMC Stubs rewards program. The seats themselves are great - plush leather reclining seats. Super comfy for watching a movie. And the theaters only hold maybe 40 people max, so it feels much more like a private theater.
The food is really the only thing I don't like. We've tried the appetizer sampler, the burger, and the chicken tenders. All were really greasy and poor quality for what you pay for. I'd almost prefer regular movie theater conessions to this. I did try the quinoa bowl which is the only item on the menu I've enjoyed there.
Great for a matinee, but if you want a full service movie theater I'd recommend studio movie grill or iPic.