It was a Saturday night and although the place looks descent, it was empty for hours. They don't have an actual bar, no hard alcohol so that was disappointing. The music isn't bad, but no one was around which gave zero ambience to the place. It would be a great local club to go to if they figured how to bring in guests. read more

What a cool amazing venue. We ventured inside right as they opened at 6pm, unfortunately live entertainment started at 8pm. This spot is located on busy 3rd avenue in downtown Chula Vista and has been open for 5 years. The decor is very slick and has those velvety couches. The front has a stage for live entertainment and a whole wall of wines. Yes they sell wines and beer at the moment as they are currently undergoing construction by adding a kitchen downstairs and another bar upstairs. There is a lounge in the back with tvs and more velvety seating to relax and have a glass of wine. A great classy place for a date night while catching your favorite game. Cannot wait to see what the new remodel brings! Will definitely be able to walk her for date nights!... Owner/staff was extremely friendly and accommodating and answered all of our questions. We definitely loved the feel of the atmosphere. There is a dress code (no shorts, no hoodies etc). read more

The Gentle Penguin - the front of the restaurant - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Gentle penguin is my favorite place to hangout on downtown third Avenue. The vibe is perfect for me. I always get great customer service (: I've only been here on a weekday but Friday Saturday gets poppen for sure(: one of my favorite drinks is a Cubano. They make it so good! read more

I've been recently going here for a few weeks. Always a great vibe, nice music, good drinks. I saw a fight here once, it was immediately taken care of by security and everyone went back to having a great time. read more

Arriving here is interesting because parking could be very limited depending on what day of the week you go. The place itself is really cute and well decorated especially the sitting room in the back. The DJ and music were both entertaining and played a nice variety. They had great dancing music and we danced the whole while. The employees were friendly and helpful with drink selection. The bathrooms could have used some more attention and were substandard. I would definitely recommend a more rigorous cleaning schedule for the bathrooms and floors because it did smell of spilled sour beer. read more

Fun bar, cool staff. Oh, and they're building a rooftop bar/performance space which would be great.

They just opened up again, but outdoors only, understandable. They told me they were all reservations only and no more tables open even though there were multiple tables unoccupied. So we ended up just getting tacos at the food stand right next to it. it almost seems that they turned us down, due to the fact that my friend didn't seem to "fit" the crowd that usually attends this establishment. I asked how do they take reservations because they never pick up the phone. it was very odd. read more

The Gentle Penguin - a man walking in front of a bar - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

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This place changed. The bar only serves bottled or canned drinks? Wine and beer no cocktails. So crazy. Their cocktails were so good! Beer is like $6 I could buy some cans at the grocery store and just drink at home lol this blows ! read more

I can't see this place lasting long. With all the other bars and breweries around that have friendly service and a fun atmosphere, this place doesn't stand a chance. In a nutshell- terrible and unprofessional service, below average drinks, okay prices, sad and boring atmosphere, with nice dark furniture. Service was terrible, especially since there was only 1 other person seated inside and 2 bartenders. For a Friday night this place was empty, however a DJ was starting to set up,so maybe this place gets poppin way later. I stood at the bar for a couple of minutes while the bartenders laughed and chatted amongst themselves ignoring the fact that I was there. A group of 4 guys walked in and were greeted right away. I assume they are regulars since they all started talking about the other weekend when they got wasted and were dancing the night away. They ordered beer, and when I was about to walk away, one of the females asked what I would like to drink. I should of left but I wanted to try this place, so I ordered my friend and I a Moscow mule. As she starts making the drinks, she goes back to the conversation with the guys next to me and forgets we were there. They were all talking about dancing, making out with each other, and getting wasted. I could care less what people talk about, but when you have customers who aren't your friends, be professional! We got our drinks, paid, and went to the table furthest from the bar. We sat and drank our drinks wishing we had gone somewhere else. Total disappointment! read more

The Gentle Penguin - Moscow mules $7 - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

My cousin had his birthday here and was in a section where it had couches and a tv. It was great to hold a small gathering and is in 3rd on Chula Vista, if you don't want to be in a downtown scene. If you live in this area a good place to grab a drink and Listen to music with ya friends or a date. read more

This is definitely my favorite new spot on Third Avenue!! The Gentle Penguin is a lounge that's an amazing place to go relax and have a cocktail with some friends, but also to go dancing when the mood strikes! The atmosphere is so chill (they have both a large room to drink and lounge in with many love-seats and a TV in the large room, and also a smaller, more artistic room where one can go to have a chat with a friend, or a pensive moment alone (drink in hand, of course). I must also mention the delicious COCKTAILS! One can get yummy bottled beer, or a glass of wine -- the selection of which are slightly limited, but on point in flavor and body -- or select from a variety of classic cocktails (Manhattan, etc.), or their in-house concoctions. I love the The Gentle Penguin cocktail, which has both pineapple and coconut. I actually don't even like pineapple or coconut, but their mixologist must have magic hands, because this drink is amazing and so frostily magical to drink. They also mix some of their drinks with specially fermented wines, which lends fresh richness and depth to classic cocktails I've had many other times. Also, the drinks are well-priced in my opinion (currently $7 for classic cocktails & $8 for special cocktail). To add to the excitement of the delicious drinks and decor, The Gentle Penguin often host lively band performances in the evenings (they post the schedule via Instagram photos and often here on their Facebook page). Since opening, most of the front room has open space for a dance floor, which means there's been plenty of space for the growing nightly party (and there's always more room in the relaxing lounge area if the dancing or music isn't for you). When I've gone, there is often a blend of Latin music, but also lots of favorites on U.S. radio, so it's got something for everyone, in my experience. It's been so much fun to dance to!! I'm so excited to finally get to experience a watering hole & dancing spot like this in Chula Vista!! read more

So disappointed at this place I was excited to go in the music sounded good from the outside ! But after paying $25 for 2 Paloma's I discovered they were made with some sort of wine!!? They were so weak they were like juice!! Never again!! read more

Sweet find! Good music great, fun drink menu and Alex is a great bartender! Wasn't sure what to order and had him choose for me. He brought us spicy margaritas that hit the spot read more

The Gentle Penguin - So delicious - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Place is cute, drinks are BOMB.. service good... first time here will try to come more often. read more

The Gentle Penguin - Michelada and the gentle penguin...Both are BOMB - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

I came here to the butthole of Chula Vista after a Padres game and expected to go to a bar that was dingy and disgusting! Enter: The Gentle Penguin! I was pleasantly surprised about how clean and classy this establishment was. Then, I ordered a Moscow Mule that turned out to be only $7! It was one of the best mules I've ever had in my life! Finally, a place with good drinks that doesn't break the bank! 10:00 rolled up and a DJ started playing some music and everything he played was good! He was even playing good stuff I've never even heard of... it had me Shazaming every song! It was a good mix of hip hop and Latin music! In no time, it turned into a crazy, but fun, dance party! By the end of the night, I was getting down on the dance floor hopping to Venga Boys and doing the Macarena! If you want a sure good time, cheap drinks, and a little craziness... go to The Gentle Penguin! read more

This place used to be so fun. They shut down for a while to "remodel" and it has not been the same since. Can barely hear the music, no more dancing just not a very good time. read more

This spot was so cool! A friend and I wanted to try somewhere different, some place more laid back so we decided to go to downtown chula but didn't know exactly where to go. After checking yelp, I decided I liked this place and I was right! Super chill, great vibes, good music, good drinks for good price. super simple menu that made it easy to just look up and pick what you want. I would definitely come back again and recommend to those looking for a chill spot to go to when they don't feel like going downtown or to north park, downtown chula- gentle penguin is just right for me ! read more

We went last night. Pretty cool lil spot to chill. Good music, drinks and atmosphere. Prices are very reasonable. The one downfall is that there is only ONE restroom stall for both the men an women. Having to wait in very long lines at times. That was my only complaint. Other than that it's a pretty chill spot. read more

The place is small, the drinks are horrible. Idk what alcohol they use but it was horrible, probably the worst drink I had from any bar at 3rd Ave... the event ended at 12, and they never gave a "last call" they just expected people to run out the place, leaving drinks at the tables. A guy who was finishing his beer was assaulted by the "bouncer" And thrown out. Workers have zero sense of good customer service. Rude and careless. read more

First time here. Bomb music and amazing strong drinks!! Fairly priced and it's good energy. I love the back room where you can have a good time and have a casual night with friends in downtown Chula Vista!!! A must go if your visiting or just in the neighborhood read more

The Gentle Penguin - Customized mango drink - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Very chill spot with live music and a cool lounge area in the back. We love their craft cocktails and I'm a fan of their signature drink made with kaffir lime, coconut and pineapple. Light and refreshing - I could drink 10 of those! However, we came tonight (Sunday 7/22) and the bar staff was NOT on point. First round of 3 drinks was $24, I paid $30 and waited for my change but the female bartender shorted me 1 dollar and put my 5 in the tip jar. I work in the service industry so I understand that tips are your livelihood but you are NEVER to assume that the change is your tip. That is a lousy move and extremely shady if your aim is to take advantage of customers you think are intoxicated. I shrugged it off and we decided to get a second round of drinks but waited too long while the bartenders ignored us and took orders from the other patrons. I will mention that they seemed a little busy as there was a birthday celebration, but ignoring and ripping off your customers is not a good way to do business. We left and went to another bar down the street. I'd consider going back here because the drinks and atmosphere are good and I want to support the growth of downtown Chula Vista but the staff tonight was a disappointment. read more

My friend and I went on Saturday night, before all the crowds showed up. Robert was our wonderful bartender. The signature drinks are the best! They have celery infused Tequila, allspice, Kaffir lime. These drinks are unique and tasty. The establishment is clean and cozy. The prices are very reasonable too. I highly recommend this place! read more

The Gentle Penguin is an awesome place to come after a long week. They don't serve food but allow you to bring your food in. The cocktails are awesome and the staff are welcoming and easy to look at. Did I mention the music is on point as well. This will quickly become my go to neighborhood spot. Great alternative to the Gaslamp! #AllAboutTheExperiences read more

Cute spot, the music is great. It's a mixture of 80s,90s and Mexican rock. The Mixologist are very friendly and make delish drinks. I am gluten intolerance, I was happy to find a place that serves ciders, the pear cider is so good. read more

First time going out to a bar in downtown chula vista and was surprised at how the scenery has changed. The area itself is becoming more modern and hip. This bar reminded me of something I would run into north park. It was a bit hipster with original drink creations, a relaxing atmosphere, interesting artwork and they had live reggae music. I tried all of their song nature drinks which was a total of 7 and my personal favorite was the top hat which was made with jalapeno. It was not spicey but had a nice kick. The namaste was also deli ious. The staff was extremely friendly and a great place to have drinks, relax, catch up with friends and have a good time read more

Blonde bartender with beanie either ripped me off or doesn't know how to count money. Was $10 short of my change but I guess it's my fault for not counting it before walking away. Not cool! read more

The two female bartenders tonight did not mix drinks well. I've been to this bar multiple times and order the same drink each time and it's always well done with enough liquor in their mixed drinks, but tonight it was horrible. We asked if they could add a splash more liquor (my drink tasted like pure lemon juice) It costs nothing at all to add a tad of liquor we were even willing to pay but we got back a whole lot of attitude. Ive never had a problem here but I almost likely won't be coming back if the same bartenders are there, it's not worth it. Their music is awesome, their other bartenders are super cool and the vibe is perfect, buttttttttt I'd like to have a good time with well mixed drinks and I could do without the attitudes. read more

The Gentle Penguin - Lounges Near Me - Chula Vista, California

Me and my girlfriend ordered 1 shot and a beer each, quickly left after feeling something strange ( we are normal -heavy drinkers) I have a history with substances, and I know for a fact me and girlfriend were having effects of being drugged and not drunk, DO NOT GO. read more

Super nice employees. We stopped in for one more drink after dinner. The guys out front checked our temperature and poured us a beer. They were kind and respectful and no beer is a bad beer, so they have that going for them!! Cute outdoor area. I recommend this spot! read more

Bad sercurity !!! They treat you like a criminal when doing doing nothing ! Horrible place and very crowded and the service is so slow! But ultimately the sercurity they are really rude and unprofessional!!!!!!!! Don't go here read more

The first time I went to gentle penguin it had just opened and there was no one there. My dad had his work Christmas party there last year and let me tell you this place was poppin. The dj played a great selection of music for all ages. I went back recently and the place was full to capacity. We ended up leaving to another bar on third. When we returned we were let in but it was too damn crowded. I couldn't move or dance and the bar service was horrible. 15 minutes to get a drink is a little ridiculous. The music was great I just wish the place were bigger and the service at the bar was better. read more

No liquor! They can't mix drinks. The sign said beer or shots only. The "shot" of vodka was a wine based vodka. That's horrible. What club doesn't have a full bar? Disappointed. read more

I go to bars about once a year (so, if I am not a bar person, why am I writing a review, good question). I came here with some co workers, after work once. Overall, I liked the place, better then other bars I went to. I drank some beer, forget the name ( drinks at bars tend to be expensive, but then again, that is the cost of going out) A nice touch, is the louge area in the back. I am at the door step of being a middle aged man, so dancing the night away is not my thing (this place has lots of the 20 somethings, dancing away, so if dancing is your thing, that happens here). I like that I could drink, hang out with my co workers, and then just go and sit in a relaxing chair in a semi relaxing environment. I know, what a party pooper to go sit in the corner of the building. Also, I get that some people may not be a fan of the art work on the walls, in the back room, but I dug it. If someone asked me, would I go back, I would say yes only because there was nothing bad about this place. Still not into the bar scene, so next time will be atleast a year. read more

This place is great! I had my birthday party here and I was treated with the upmost respect by Kino & his staff. Thank you again, Gentle Penguin ! read more

Friday night ...empty. Customer service was shitty , The 2 stars are for the coldness of the drink and the place was clean. May give it another shot on a different day. read more

With all the new breweries arising in CV.. The Gentle Penguin is the place to go for cocktails. I don't really enjoy beer as much so this is the best place for me and my friends to go. Their cocktails are soooo delicious and the ambiance is really nice. The DJ's are always fun and play good music. Sometimes it does take a little bit to get your drink but usually its only 1-2 bartenders making drinks. The counter to order is a little small but I always have a good time when I come here. read more

Not a full bar...Beer, wine and wine-based alcohol. Has potential but needs more. Nobody there on a Saturday at 8pm in August. Disappointing lack of ambience. read more

CV is lucky to have a place like this! Went yesterday with 8 others to celebrate a birthday. Initially went because of Radio Karma, an awesome band that plays there Wednesdays and Sundays, but were pleasantly surprised with our overall experience. The staff was extremely accommodating and polite. We were able to bring in outside food to enjoy there. The music playing overhead before the band was current and fun. The drinks were good, the mule is highly recommended, and also reasonably priced. I really hope this bar is here to stay! read more

I was there this past Sunday with a few friends and it was a lot of fun. The live music they played, along with their signature drink definitely got my friends and I dancing. Looking forward to coming here more often. read more

Great spot for anyone looking to have a chill time after some drinks at the local breweries in downtown Chula Vista.