The Menagerie

3581 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501, United States
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The Menagerie
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Ja
Review №1

This place is the worst LGBT bar in the IE. Went to use the restroom and the security blocking the door said that an employee was using it. What? There are 4 other stalls and your patrons are waiting. He stated that sometimes if the lines in the woman restroom are full theyll let woman in there too. I dont understand it but this place is gh3tto!

Vi
Review №2

Karaoke every Monday. The karaoke program they’re running on has pre-selected songs, no new radio songs. I had a whole list of karaoke songs, to which they only had one available. When I asked if they could just open YouTube instead, the older guy refused and said it was illegal 😂🙄

Ma
Review №3

Drinks were strong af. awesome 21st birthday. the dancers were so good. especially that one dancer cuz damn. Only downside of tonight is that there werent any cute young guys/nb there. i wish i couldve tipped more.

Ja
Review №4

The bartender said his name was Jose, but in fact I think it was Tony when I asked another friend of mine. This is the second time coming to this bar. The first time was absolutely amazing but this time the bartender was so completely rude, It floored me. I had a seat right next to the cash register and it was busy but I was not getting served. So I got up and stood in line and I heard him keep shouting super loud and I asked him to stop shouting so loud ...pleaseHe then shouted even louder !! He then he gave away my seat to somebody else when my stuff was clearly there and he knew I was sitting there. Im trying to get in contact with the owner to let him/her know about the incident but I havent been able to find a good contact number.

Am
Review №5

A Riveside staple! The Menagerie is a safe space for anyone looking for a good drink and twirl on the dance floor.

ro
Review №6

Was here last night April 12 and great atmosphere super friendly patrons and one bar tender was on point with making sure you got what you wanted the other one did not help me but was constantly cleaning stocking. You could tell she knew her stuff dynamic duo it does not hurt that they were both highly attractive thanks girls I will be back!

Ke
Review №7

ME AND MY GF GOT ASSAULTED AND GROPED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE WEIRD BARTENDER WHO ALWAYS WEARS HATS WITH THE BLONDE HAIR DEFENDED THE GUYS WHO ASSAULTED US. DISGUSTING PLACE AND DISGUSTING PEOPLE. CANT BELIEVE WE ACTUALLY USE TO LIKE THIS PLACE

Ch
Review №8

If you are the funloving type of person, about 11 pm, everyone gets on the dance floor and some people are talented dancers. others like me just move: yet still have a good time. This club has every kind of beer that i have ever wanted and even some exotic ones that i havent tried before. Excellent club...ive been to others and however the bartenders all 10s.

Vi
Review №9

I went to this club four times total but last night I got really scared about how the staff treat and look after their customers. I was in a group of 5, we just ordered our drinks from the bartender, 15 minutes later one of my friends started to feel bad and asked me to get her some water. I got in line and on my turn I asked for tap water and the bartender said he could not give me tap water and turned away. After that, I caught his attention again and said I could buy a bottle of water. Unreasonably, the bartender said he could not sell me water thru my debit card. I appealed saying my friend was not feeling good and the guy literally said that was not his problem, adding that he had rules to follow. Whatever these rules are, I don’t recommend a dog to set foot to a place that denies the most available and basic need of a human being, specially in a party. This action is inhuman and unacceptable.I called my friend out and we left the club. We went to the next club and there were plenty of water sold/ given to people.

Fr
Review №10

I love this place strong drinks and I love being groped and touched by random men

No
Review №11

Super fun place to go thats mega friendly! They have different deals and themes every night!! It was the first over 21 bar I ever went to and Ill continue to be loyal. Menagerie is an amazing local bar! Plus the drinks are cheap and strong! Tony the bartender is my go to guy whenever I go. He makes the best drinks and is always a blast! It might not be a WEHO club, but theres definitely a reason why they have so many loyal regulars. I cant think of a better place in riverside! Check out their drag shows on Thursday!

I
Review №12

The sign initially attracted me because it said it was a unique bar. It wasnt until I stepped inside did I realize it was a gay bar. I decided to sit down for a drink since I was already there. Lots of lights, techno music and open air inside the bar, felt pretty gay. The people seemed nice enough and the bartender called me baby, which I thought was adorable. Overall, a nice place to have a few drinks.

Am
Review №13

Rude bartender. We went to the bar, and found an open spot. The bartender pointed at this lady ordering a drink, then after came up tom friend and me and said you can stand there all you want, Im not going to tell you again.Everything else was great, but frankly, the bartender being so rude when he could have come up to us the first time and said there was a line completely turned me off from the place. We left after that

Ra
Review №14

There was a great guitar lick rolling out onto the avenue. Walked across the threshold and was hit with a sign demanding acceptance of a political position. Left with out ordering. What a great way for a business owner to let you know not to go to his business. Just sad.

Tr
Review №15

Monday night karaoke is good. I bet is crazy crowded on weekends... small dance floor... you have to go to the front of the bar to order your drink... bartender was nice enough.... Im used to bar mates making an effort to make you feel welcome and comfortable, no the case at this bar

Jo
Review №16

Good place, but a few nights ago a bartender told me, you can spend this amount, but you cant afford to tip?. Now, i was there for a birthday, spent my money on the birthday boy, for the bartender to say that to me was rude and uncalled for. I dont know his name, but he was an old white guy.

Ju
Review №17

This gay bar is much more low key then the VIP. I like it because it’s not trying to be a trendy gay bar. There’s music and a dance floor. But if your like me and aren’t much in to dancing there’s a back room that opens up to a patio. The music volume is much lower in the area. Making it a good place to talk to friends. Though even in the back you’ll need to speak loudly. Oh yah, there’s a short to no line and no cover charge. Even on Friday night.There are things I don’t like. If you want a drink, you need to stand in a line at one of two cash registers. My friend and I got a seat at the bar and for well over 30 min the bartender kept saying, “I’ll be right with you guys.” I think it was about 45 min until we realized that if we wherever going to get a drink, we would have to stand in line. The other thing I didn’t like was the fact that the bartenders didn’t want to give drink recommendations and where kind of rude.Other then that, it’s an okay gay bar with no cover charge. Key word being “no cover charge!”

H.
Review №18

I walked by this business while the bartender (Pablo) posted a sign outside that listed all domestic 20 oz drafts to be $5 between 2-7p.  I walked inside and order two 20 oz domestic drafts, and the same bartender charge me $15.25. I told him about the sign posted outside.  He just smirked and briefly waived his hand as if the sign was just a joke and told me that the promotion doesnt start until 9p when the sign clearly says between 2-7p.  What can I say? Well, lets see: false advertisement, bait and switch, unethical, etc. I will never visit this bar again. I cant believe businesses are willing to lose customers over a few dollars, to me is like shooting yourself in the foot. It doesnt make sense at all.

Sa
Review №19

I would give 0 stars if possible! The new girl (assuming she is) was beyond rude when asked if she knew how to make a specific drink. One of the employees knew my brother and sister so I expected good service but instead but treated with sarcastic comments and rude comments. I would not recommend to star off or go to at all as the first bar. Awful. She was about 54 MAYBE 57 African american and short hair. Went to the point of trying to start a fight. So terrible.

Ig
Review №20

This is an acceptable bar through most of the week. The Monday night karaoke is great, as are the drag shows and live musical performances theyve started having. However, I strongly recommend steering clear of it on Friday and Saturday nights. At these times, it is completely overrun by neighboring bars overflow of random straight people, many of whom are quite rude and pushy. Pushy in a very literal sense.On my last Friday night here, I was talking to a friend by the bar. I got shoved towards the bar by a stream of people, including the bouncer. I tried to brace myself with one hand against the bar, to politely keep myself from tumbling into the other people there. This wasnt good enough, as I still ended up bumping shoulders with some dude who was there with his wife (ugh). He then got all pissy, as if Id just goosed him or something, and shoved me back (double ugh).Straight people at a gay bar--fine. Hundreds of straight people at a gay bar--whatever. Hundreds of straight people, who often get weird & defensive about their heterosexuality--too much.I kinda feel bad complaining about this, as its not really the bars fault. Although it does have plenty of other shortcomings. There is no happy hour, and the drinks are overpriced. Although there is apparently a DJ, it seems there is just one default playlist; you are almost guaranteed to hear that Im Sexy and I Know It song anytime you go. And of course, some of the bouncers are jerks. But the bartenders are generally pleasant and doing their best. The location is great, in lovely and increasingly lively downtown Riverside (though this is both a blessing and a curse). And I cant help but have affection for it--it is after all one of only two gay bars in town. I just wish it were better. And I swear (this time I mean it for real!), I will never ever go there on a Friday or Saturday again. You probably dont want to either.

Ro
Review №21

The welcoming vibes have died down here over time. Bar tenders are very cold, shallow and judgmental.

Mi
Review №22

Spent the weekend in Riverside. With a town that only has 2 gay bars The Menagerie was a blast. Loved the music, mix of 90s dance and modern jams.Bartenders were friendly, worked fast, and poured a decent drink. David the owner was really nice gay ..May you keep The Managerie open another 34 yearsThanks.

An
Review №23

Nice place to meet with friends, dance , drink and watch a good show

An
Review №24

Great bar! Only...the straight people. Slowly but surely they begin showing up. Its not a real issue, but do you have to wear shorts and sandals?

Ma
Review №25

I love this place! Pre Corona Id come here about twice a month for their weekly drag nights. Its always been a fun spot to go to and have fun with friends over the years.

Ro
Review №26

It was good to see the old place I was security in the 90s and loved this bar and the crowd s

Me
Review №27

I wouldnt call this place a gay bar, its more of a gay club. Music is loud, there is a dance floor, and there is an outdoor area for socializing and smoking. This place is more like the club scene and VIP is more like the bar scene.Bad part is, it does sometimes get hot and stuffy inside.

JI
Review №28

A very Disrespectful DJ by the name of Shavo is why I’m leaving the bad review. When you lack integrity as an individual and your and your not considerate of how your actions affect other peoples lives you reap the reciprocity of those actions...this guy needs to learn respect, you have to deal with the people in your community and around you on a regular and you ever know what will return when you move in bad character.

Ju
Review №29

Dont expect food (theres no kitchen), but if youre looking for good people to converse with for the night while sharing an evening cocktail this is the place for you.

Fl
Review №30

Bartenders were super nice and kind, it was my first time going last Saturday and I had so much fun! Ill be going again with my friends this Saturday :) bring more people along too.

Cr
Review №31

I dig this place. Its fun and every time I go the atmosphere is just fun and free. The tunes are great! Love to dance here. 😊😊

lu
Review №32

This place is a good place except for the girl bartender who is horrible she has attitude just horrible customer service I do not recommend going to her at all Karma will get her

Am
Review №33

Love it its always my go to place my favorite drink is the LA water watch out though they can be dangerous😁 the only thing I dont like is the bathrooms one for woman one for men they should both be open for whoever

Al
Review №34

I ordered a water and was told water costs $2. Took out my card to pay and was told there was a $10 card limit.Fun Place though!

De
Review №35

Best Drag show! So much fun!! Great drinks and jello shots! The boys are cute too!

Ga
Review №36

Love this gay bar so much!

jo
Review №37

The bartender was very nice. And the music was great. Especially in sou d quality would be here again

oa
Review №38

Been going here for a year now it’s a good place to drink and drink with friends 🏳️‍🌈

Al
Review №39

The bad service starts from the beginning.... the security guy at front door are a badass.... the guys at the bar are very unfriendly and the place smell bad. I really dont want come here again.

Os
Review №40

Security guard white transgender He needs to be terminated yesterday he pushed me On the floor told me to get out I am placing a lawsuit against the company I appreciate a response

sa
Review №41

Been here when its not so busy and when it is and both were nice, too to hang out have a drink and people watch

L
Review №42

Nice spot for a drink & to meet kewl people.

Jo
Review №43

Went last night with 4 other people and for some reason we all ended up sick today and no we werent hungover I showed up late and didnt drink much to have been hungover but yeah idk if something was put into our drinks or what but we all woke up sick vomiting and upset stomach all day and seems like we all caught a cold as well

Er
Review №44

This was my fav bar to go to no cover and ok music but lately my friends and I have been getting into it with alot of dumb straight guys id rather go to 340

Li
Review №45

Had a little more fun here than I expected 🤗 Dance, Drink, and Enjoy your time here! Great Vibes 😃

Al
Review №46

Somewhere you have to check out if you are In Downtown Riverside. Cool little spot with good drinks and good music.

Li
Review №47

Great music, friendly people, but unfortunately the bartender was extremely rude :(

An
Review №48

Great place to hang out. Great drinks, good music and amazing bartenders.

tw
Review №49

Good place to meet people and the drinks are good and reasonably priced!! The popcorn is excellent as well!!

Ch
Review №50

This is a great club!!! Always a fun night out with the girls!!! The best part is the DJ on Wednesdays.... Hes the best in downtown Riverside!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Au
Review №51

The most amazing bartenders and staff the best bar in Downtown Riverside

Ed
Review №52

Fun place

Au
Review №53

Omg what an amazing performance tonight

Ri
Review №54

Nice place, great bar tenders very friendly

La
Review №55

The vibes are fun on Saturdays. The music is almost always bad.

Re
Review №56

I love pablo hes hella cute 😊 he recommended the best drinks.

Br
Review №57

I love to unwind from a stressful week at work and get all sweaty with some hot hunks. This place is the best.

Mi
Review №58

Great vibe, love the drag shows, damn good drinks.

An
Review №59

Friendly crowd, fun atmosphere.

Ca
Review №60

The people who work here are awesome and the crowd is always nice and friendly.

Ro
Review №61

Good music, great DRAG shows an happy hour is on point!!!!!! 😉

jo
Review №62

The salsa night is great for beginners and experienced folks alike.

Da
Review №63

Great place good music i recommend coming here.

Sa
Review №64

Worst bartender ever. So RUDE. WONT be coming back

Pa
Review №65

Great place to hang out no matter your sexual orientation

Di
Review №66

Fun gay bar. Dance floor n smoking area.

Da
Review №67

Very friendly people and nice bartenders.

Ve
Review №68

My sista girlfriend and I had a nice time, thank you.

Da
Review №69

I love the menagerie been a customer since I turned 21

Am
Review №70

The atmosphere is very relaxed

Ta
Review №71

Best place in Riverside to go to, to have a really great time

Jo
Review №72

ISO

Wi
Review №73

Good music and good for community

Al
Review №74

Place rocks! Always a good time!

Mi
Review №75

Dreamt

Ro
Review №76

Fabulaus place to be yourself!

je
Review №77

Karaoke Mondays

DL
Review №78

Slow service.

Su
Review №79

Its the place to be

Jo
Review №80

Today Saturday December 4th. Im arriving at Pats parking lot and then entering the bar, I find a glass bottle near my car, I took it to throw it in a trash can but there was no one outside with the dance bottle and they told me I couldnt go in because that bottle according to they were mine

Ve
Review №81

I wouldnt give it even one star... very bad service, they didnt let us in because we didnt bring state identification... we presented our passport. ..we are tourists.

Se
Review №82

A very fun place. For Latin people

Information
71 Photos
82 Comments
3.7 Rating
  • Address:3581 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92501, United States
  • Site:http://menagerieriverside.com/
  • Phone:+1 951-788-8000
Categories
Working hours
  • Monday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Tuesday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Wednesday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Thursday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Friday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Saturday:4 PM–2 AM
  • Sunday:4 PM–2 AM
Service options
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • Dine-in:Yes
  • Delivery:No
  • Takeaway:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Great beer selection:Yes
  • Great cocktails:Yes
  • Karaoke:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
  • Live performances:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Dancing:Yes
  • Food:Yes
  • Happy-hour drinks:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Seating:Yes
Amenities
  • Toilets:Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual:Yes
  • Cosy:Yes
  • Trendy:Yes
Crowd
  • Groups:Yes
  • Tourists:Yes
Payments
  • Credit cards:Yes
  • Debit cards:Yes
  • NFC mobile payments:Yes
  • Credit cards:Yes
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