Now this is a sign! The Pingvin Söröző in Budapest features a big neon penguin proudly holding up a frosty mug of beer. The name translates to Penguin Pub, which seems appropriate enough, although penguins are not usually known for hanging around neighborhood bars. 06-09
The pub opened in 1959, and its colorful penguin became one of Budapest’s better-known old neon characters. Signs like this helped brighten the city streets during the socialist era, and thankfully this one managed to survive.
UPDATE: After years of looking a little worse for wear, the neon penguin was restored and relighted for the pub’s 66th anniversary in 2025. The Pingvin Söröző remains open, and the penguin is once again raising his beer over the streets of Budapest. 08-26
Penguin Bar
