In this latest episode of The Cigar Guys Podcast, Alex Gonzalez, Zachary Nikollaj, and Jared Burrows discuss their recommendations for the top cigar lounges locally, nationally, and worldwide.
1. Experiences of Cigar Lounge
Florida’s Local Favorites:
- Corona Cigar Lounge, Tampa: Recommended for social gatherings, this is a very lively atmosphere close to the Hard Rock Casino.
- Celery City Cigars: A blend of signature cocktails and a laid-back vibe.
- Cigarz on the Avenue: Less fancy, more laid-back, perfect to chill on an evening.
National Favorites:
- Outlaw Cigars of Kansas: Large venue with a bar, live music, and a brewery atmosphere.
- Churchills (Colorado): Upscale hotel with classic leather-chair ambiance.
- Don Christo’s Cigar Lounge (Michigan): Upscale steak house, complete bar, huge humidor.
International Favorites:
- James J. Fox (London): High-end cigar lounge selling Cuban cigars; service is exemplary.
- La Casa de Habano (Global): Immense selection of Cuban cigars, highly reliable.
- No. 6 Cavendish: This is a luxury space offering the best selection of Cuban cigars.
- Cigar Lounge Criteria
- Ambiance: The lounges range from upscale and business-friendly to casual and laid-back. Also preferred are darker wood aesthetics with a cozy, traditional cigar lounge atmosphere.
- Service: Lounges with the best service—from lighting cigars to special drink recommendations and customer experiences—are truly the best.
- Challenges of the Cigar Industry
- European Market Trends: The scarce supply of Cuban cigars has opened the door to opportunities for the New World cigar brands. Resistance from the traditional European smokers who find New World cigars too strong.
- Cultural Preferences: The Cuban cigars are known for their smooth flavor against the more robust profiles of New World cigars.
Recommendation and Tips
- For Beginners: Start with lounges that provide a wide selection along with knowledgeable staff.
- Traveler Tip: Research your destination for cigar lounges to ask about any ‘insider’ information.
- Bring Your Own: If the lounge charges exorbitant prices for cigars, like the Soho Cigar Lounge in NYC, bring your own and meet the purchase minimum with drinks or food.
Takeaway
This episode of The Cigar Guys Podcast provides an entertaining review of cigar culture, focusing on ambiance, service, and stand-out cigar lounges in the U.S. and internationally. The relaxed style makes it fun to listen to for both the enthusiast and the newcomer.
148. Empire Social Lounge: Miami’s Luxury Cigar Experience | The Cigar Guys Podcast – The Cigar Guys Podcast
In this episode of The Cigar Guys Podcast, hosts Alex Gonzalez and Jared Burrows sit down with Alex and Byron from Empire Social Lounge in Brickell, Miami, FL — one of South Florida’s most iconic cigar destinations.They discuss what it takes to operate a top-tier cigar lounge, the art of hospitality, and what makes Empire Social Lounge stand out as a luxury experience for cigar enthusiasts. From conversations about cigar celebrities and the Davidoff Especiales 7 to behind-the-scenes insights into running a premium lounge, this episode is packed with knowledge, laughter, and great smoke.If you love Miami’s cigar scene, appreciate fine lounges, or want a glimpse into the business side of the cigar world, this episode is for you.👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more cigar conversations with leaders, legends, and everyday smokers.🎙 The Cigar Guys PodcastHosts: Alex Gonzalez, Mark Nikollaj, Zachary Nikollaj, and Jared Burrows🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more📲 Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: @thecigarguys🔥 Special thanks to Alex and Byron from Empire Social Lounge, Brickell.——————————–Sans Pareil Cigars: https://sanspareilcigar.com/Best Cigar Mouthwash: https://SmokeSniper.comOur Cigar Brand: https://1102cigars.comCigar Guys Merch: https://cigarguys.shopOur Cigar Book: https://amazon.com/Cigar-Guys-Ultimate-Guide-Smoking/dp/B0C7DXRCCRTip Jar: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G8A8MU7Y3V9W8Minnect: https://app.minnect.com/expert/TheCigarGuysCollaboration/Sponsorship Inquiries: info@thecigarguys.comMain Website: https://thecigarguys.comFollow us on social media:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecigarguysTwitter: https://twitter.com/thecigarguys Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecigarguysFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/realcigarguysTwitch: https://twitch.tv/cigarguysRumble: https://rumble.com/cigarguysFeaturing guest appearances of people that are involved in the cigar industry.#Cigars #CigarPodcast #CigarGuys #CigarShow #CigarReviews
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