Where to Find (and How to Join) a Local Cigar Club

For those who really enjoy the world of cigars, finding a cigar club enhances your newfound passion in so many ways. Gathering in a congenial space with like-minded cigar hobbyists takes your appreciation of the pastime up to another level. Sometimes finding that stogie utopia can be a real challenge, however.

Cigar clubs are as varied as cigar smokers themselves. Each private cigar lounge has its own personality derived from the mix and energy of the patrons. Finding the right fit can present a daunting task. Likewise, location is often an issue if you aren’t close to a larger city or metropolitan area. Here we offer you our tips for how to find and join a local cigar club.

What Exactly is A Cigar Club?

A cigar club, also called a cigar bar or cigar lounge, is a typically-private establishment that caters to those who enjoy smoking cigars. Many serve food to some degree, from appetizers and snacks to full-fledged meals. They often serve alcohol although some maintain a BYOB policy. It all depends on the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction.

Cigar clubs offer a "safe space” for smokers to gather and enjoy their passion without breaking smoking laws or facing the disapproval of those around them. Again, depending on the regulations of the local government, some cigar clubs are open to the public. There are various venues that sponsor cigar club atmospheres, one being local cigar shops. If you’re looking for a local cigar club to join a cigar store is the most likely place to start.

Cigar Store Lounge

Your local cigar store is a great place to begin your hunt for a cigar club best suited to you. The atmosphere at these stores is pretty casual and the owners and those who work there are all about cigars. In fact, the better cigar stores often invest their time and budget in creating a cigar lounge within the store. These cigar clubs are typically laid back and offer a space where you can enjoy your smoke, watch a game and share opinions and conversation with fellow cigar enthusiasts.

Sometimes the in-store cigar lounge also offers beverages for purchase (soft drinks and even alcohol if permitted). If not you may be invited to bring your own libation along. Many cigar store lounges restrict access to those who purchase their cigars from the establishment. And, if you want to be appreciated in the cigar club, you’ll do so anyway. It’s proper etiquette.

If your favorite cigar shop doesn’t have an adjacent cigar club they will certainly know of clubs in the area. Ask them.

Classic Cigar Clubs

If the cigar shop you frequent has referred you to a local cigar club it most likely falls in the category of classic cigar club. These are everything you probably imagine when you think of a cigar bar.The atmosphere is definitely a throwback to yesteryear in a classic cigar club.

These establishments cater to a specific crowd. You’ll find premium cigars and one-of-a-kind stogies for sale and, of course, vintage and high-end whiskeys, liquors, beer and excellent wines. There’s typically a drink menu that offers patrons a selection of classic cocktails, mixed by seasoned mixologists and served by attentive staff.

Some of the long-established cigar clubs serve dinner but, as the real focus here is on the enjoyment of cigars, many prefer to limit the food they offer. Instead you’ll find knowledgeable staff who aptly recommend certain stogie and spirit pairings. While the atmosphere is decidedly far less casual than the cigar store lounge you will be met with a group of patrons who, like yourself, are eager to smoke and taste premium cigars and discuss their favorites.

The best advice for finding and joining a cigar club of this type is to ask at your local cigar shop or inquire among some of your more experienced cigar aficionados. Before you visit a classic cigar club make sure to call ahead and find out their rules and regulations. Some of the more formal clubs are private but if you’re interested in joining they’ll allow you to visit. Often these high-end cigar clubs do have a dress code and a minimum age requirement.

Go Social to Find Your Cigar Tribe

Of course word-of-mouth is still one of the best ways to find and join a local cigar club. Ask your fellow cigar loving friends if they know of anything local. Most of the time someone will know of either a casual lounge at a cigar shop, a laid back cigar bar or a classic cigar club.

If all else fails you can find a like-minded group on social media platforms. There may be meet-up groups in your town from which you can find and form an informal cigar club if nothing exists in your area. This is a great way for smokers who are newly passionate about cigars to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Those more experienced cigar smokers are usually only too happy to offer opinions and advice to newbies.

Find A Cigar Club That’s Right Fit for You

Once you visit a cigar club make sure it's the right fit before investing any time and money. If you don’t feel comfortable in a specific club then ask one of the other patrons or even a staff member for another club recommendation. They’ll usually be able to point you in the right direction.

Finding your perfect fit is often a process. Visit different cigar shops and clubs to find the one for you. And always make sure you have the right cigar tools and accessories to make your cigar smoking experience and cigar club membership more enjoyable. At Northwoods Humidors we have a huge selection of humidors, lighters, cutters and more to help you hone your hobby. Contact us for more information on enhancing your total cigar experience.