Gentry has an upscale piano bar vibe that attracts a fashionable clientele. At both locations, the tunes come primarily from the piano players and singers who entertain seven nights a week. The lower level at Gentry on State features more contemporary music from the DVD system behind the bar, with the sounds accentuated by the room's numerous video monitors. When the piano bar at Gentry on Halsted is silent, which isn't often, the bartenders play material from singers like Peggy Lee, June Christy and even the Rat Pack. Lounge music rules at Gentry.
Ashtrays are everywhere at both locations, so expect a noseful of cigarette smoke.
Don't rule out a bouquet of colognes, either. The clientele is predominantly gay, male and thirtysomething. You'll also find the occasional group of straight females accompanying their gay male friends. Gentry on State attracts a decent-sized after work contingent, and Gentry on Halsted fills up on the weekends, as it's a good place to meet friends before venturing out to the more raucous Boystown bars. Of course, when female impersonator Rudy de la Mor steps up to the mike at Gentry on State, it's always a big deal.