Cigars on Ice
A cigar is as good as memories that you have when you smoked it. - Raul Julia
A few years ago I tried a cigar and loved the taste it left. I also enjoyed the 45 minutes of breathing, how it helped clear my head and the calming effect. I fell in love with cigars. Give me a good cigar, and I will call you friend for life.
In recent post smoking ban years, cigar terraces and bars are making a comeback. Where they used to have a middle age masculine feel in the past, nowadays, cigar lounges have transformed themselves to appeal to all different tastes.
Here are my top 3 places to smoke in London. I love them and visit them for different occasions and with different people.
Casa Del Habano
- For the laid back & casual smoker (£)
Tucked away on Wardour Street in Soho, this little bar has the arty, care-free type as regulars. They don't sell alcohol (you can pop into the bar next door) but you can have very good coffee with your Cuban while listening to music from the region by acts such as the Buena Vista Social Club.
Boisdale of Belgravia (or Canary Wharf)
- For the whisky and cigar aficionado (££)
With over a 140 different types of cigars and an endless list of Whiskey, Boisdale is the cigar smoker's haven. With a good restaurant and nightly live jazz music, I'll say this is your one-stop shop for a good evening out.
They do regular cigar tasting and other events for members.
Romeo y Julieta petit coronas, Hennessy XO and Macaroon
Cigar Terrace at The Wellesley Hotel
- For the opulent smoker (£££)
Photo from hotel website
From vintage Havanas to limited edition Behikes specially made for Cohiba’s 40th anniversary in 2005 going for £3500, the Cigar Terrace is touted as having the largest humidor in Europe and the manager Guissepe Ruo is always available to share his knowledge and guide your choice.
With two terraces gracing the front of the hotel on either sides, they are private with just seven tables, warmed by overhead heat lamps and given a luxurious intimate feel by the fireplace burning at one end.
The service was excellent and the Homemade salt cod Ravioli with almond and aubergine pesto to die for.
I do love to read when I'm smoking by myself.
There are five things, above all else, that make life worth living: a good relationship with God, a good woman, good health, good friends, and a good cigar. -Prince Sined Yar Maharg
