Cigar Lounges

View Cigar Lounges in a larger map


I want to go a little in-depth here, but for starters, here is my list of cigar-friendly places in NYC..... but oh man do I miss those awesome years of pre-2003 (prior to the smoking ban), where you could exercise your right to smoke (with good taste of course) in bars across this fine city.


For Starters: Club Macanudo: Great cigar bar, an established institution in midtown. Great for a group outing. The club is also a store front for the General Cigar Company (who own the cuban-originated labels of Cohiba and Romeo y Julieta). They have an awesome selection of cigars. It was here that I tried my first Partagas Black Label (the maduro line of non-cuban Partagas). Great construction, heavy body that went well with a dark red cabernet sauvignon or a nice tawny port. The place itself was good overall, but also kinda creepy since it was filled with 50 year old cougars trying to snare 20 somethings. (and this was PRE-sex in the city folks).

Next on the list: Hudson Bar and Books: there is a special place in my heart for this cigar bar. James Bond movies playing non-stop, and a very quaint atmosphere. Their cigar and wine selections aren't that stellar, but what they lack in selection is made up for in ambiance. Staff was excellent, and the mood was great.


Lexington Bar and Books: the uppity cousin of Hudson Bar and Books. You HAVE to wear a jacket in this place. Even though it is located in the basement of the building, it is well ventilated and I found that their cigar and booze selection was pretty impressive.

Circa Tabac: This joint boasts cigarettes (the poor man's cigar) from around the world, BUT they ARE cigar friendly. Its a pretty loud place compared to other smoke-friendly locales in the city, but hey, when in Rome.


The Brandy Library: definitive new york. I was there back in 2003, and I was free to smoke a cigar and enjoy a beautiful brandy.


The Carnegie Club: this is one of my most favorite places in the city. They have a wonderful wine list, (I know that everyone is different, but I prefer either beer, wine, port or some jack daniels with my stoogie), the service was excellent and the overall environment was.... to put it succinctly, trademark New York.


Vol De Nuit: This is a Belgian beer bar that has a mini courtyard. You are free to smoke in this courtyard (and people often do). Enjoying a nice Chimay Blue with an Astral Talanga Valley Selection along with the company of wonderful friends in this small belgian beer bar is one of my most cherished memories.
-Mike