As a cigar-and-bourbon guy who believes every great evening starts with a proper pour and a slow-burning smoke, I was genuinely thrilled when I walked through the doors of Cigars International Superstore at Newport on the Levee.
The newest cigar lounge to open in Greater Cincinnati offered everything I expected − a walk-in humidor, bar and comfy leather chairs. But it also surprised me in a refreshing way.
The space felt more like a modern social club than a traditional cigar bar, and the clientele was a mix of young professionals, groups of women gathered around craft cocktails and old-school smooth-talkers puffing away as they flirted with the ladies.
The scene prompted me to take a closer look at the local cigar bar scene, where I discovered a slew of new cigar bars have popped un in recent years with polished interiors and upscale decor, attracting a new generation of customers.
As I reported the story, I spent time − smoking cigars and drinking bourbon, of course − while also talking with employees and patrons to understand what was fueling the resurgence.
Again and again, people described the experience as being less about smoking itself and more about ritual and community.
Customers told me they enjoyed slowing down, disconnecting from their phones, and having face-to-face conversations in a relaxed setting.
Meanwhile, owners and employees described their spaces as places where everyone, regardless of age, race, or gender, can fell comfortable gathering with friends or networking after work.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: I got paid to smoke cigars and drink bourbon
Reporting by Randy Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer / Cincinnati Enquirer
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By Randy Tucker, Cincinnati Enquirer | USA TODAY Network
