The Local Smoke Shop

        There's nothing like enjoying a nice cigar after a long day, a big accomplishment (like finishing a new piano sonata), a good meal, or just for the heck of it. It's a relatively cheap enjoyment that I think every man should at least try out once in his life. Sure, you can smoke a cigar at home, it's the easiest place nowadays, with most restaurants and some bars being non-smoking. But what's really the best is having a local smoke shop or cigar lounge where you can go in, sit down, and light up.

 

        For you cigar fans out there, if you haven't experienced it, imagine this. You walk in to a warmly lit lounge, say hello to everyone there, knowing them all by name. You greet the shop-keep and he asks what you're smoking today, maybe you say Montecristo or Arturo Fuente (one of my personal favorites), or even something new and exciting like Acid (you might want to keep that to yourself if the guys there are long-time smokers, because the connoisseurs usually tend to frown on flavored cigars), and he tells you to make yourself comfortable. You grab a cup of coffee and sit down in a nice leather chair that's so comfortable you feel like you could fall asleep in it, and you cut and light up your cigar. No need to look a certain way, drive a certain kind of car, make a certain amount of money, or be in any hurry, you just sit for what could seem like a few minutes to a few hours and just enjoy some laid-back, no-holds-barred conversation and a great smoke. And when you're done and are heading out it's handshakes all around and a "come back when you can stay longer" or, if you know the owner pretty well, a jestful "don't let the door hit you on the ass!"

 

        Sound like something you'd enjoy? Well, if you're ever in the Monaca, Pennsylvania area and are on Pennsylvania Avenue, keep an eye out for King Beaver Cigars. The scene I just described is my usual visit to Vince's, and he always likes getting some new customers.

 

        So, you'd like to try a cigar but aren't sure what you'd like? Well, the thing about cigars is that there's pretty much one for everyone who's willing to find it. It's all about personal preference, and if you try hard enough you may end up finding a brand that you'll stand by forever. If you'd like something flavored that's a good seller, check out Acid cigars by Drew Estate. Their Blondie line is a top pick, it's a Robusto (about 4 inches long) and has a mild and sweet flavor and distinctive aroma. If you'd like something a bit more conventional but not too bold try a Macanudo (the Macanudo Maduro is a nice smoke if you want something a bit bolder with a Maduro wrapper). For a distinctive, coffee-like taste on the medium-bodied side look for Arturo Fuente. And if you want something full-bodied with a spicy kick that is sure to relax you try a Punch or, if you're brave enough, a CAO Brazilia (I personally don't care for those, myself, but like I said, personal preference). Whatever you decide on be sure to enjoy it slowly, as rushing a cigar can make the smoke hot and bitter, and don't inhale.

 

        In summation, if you're a guy looking for a guy's place to spend some time and enjoy a cigar, that may even become you're home away from home, look for a smoke shop or cigar lounge near you. It's a great place to hang your hat and unwind.