The Australian Exercise: Cigar Lounges in Australia

Australia feels far away. However, its smoking laws are very strict. In many places, you can’t smoke in public venues. Because of that, many cigar spots run as private clubs.

Still, tourists often have options. For example, some clubs sell temporary memberships. Others allow entry with a member invitation. Also, staff can usually suggest the easiest legal way to visit.

Here are three cigar clubs and lounges in Australia’s key cities.

Melbourne: Candela Nuevo

Candela Nuevo is known as a “secret” Melbourne venue. It sits high above the city and delivers big views. At the same time, it offers premium spirits and quality cigars. The team aims for balance. So, the club feels refined, but not snobbish. Also, it avoids the noisy, packed vibe.

Why people go

• First, you’ll find a large cigar menu.

• Next, the club stores cigars in high-quality humidors.

• In addition, it features a walk-in humidor with a major Cuban selection plus boutique cigars.

• Finally, the bar focuses on whisky, wine, and cocktails.

Membership and access

Candela Nuevo runs as a members-only club. It also offers several membership types.

• A Young option (up to age 30) helps younger professionals meet and network.

• A Corporate option supports business meetings in private rooms.

Moreover, the club highlights reciprocal access with similar clubs around the world.

Important: To visit, you usually need one of two things. Either arrive as a member of a comparable club abroad, or come as a guest of a member. To join, you typically bring a member recommendation. Then you visit so current members can meet you and approve your application.

Look and feel

The design is modern and polished. You’ll see wide chairs and sofas in sand and cream tones. You’ll also notice artwork throughout the space. In winter, an open fireplace adds warmth.

In addition, bartenders come from many countries. The whisky list is also a point of pride. The team built it through deep research and distillery visits. From time to time, the club hosts whisky tastings and workshops as well.

Candela Nuevo
Level 12, 2 Queen St., Melbourne
(+61) 3 9612 5555
www.candelanuevo.com.au

Perth: Cigar Social

Perth is the capital of Western Australia. It also has many British immigrants. Because of that, the city has a strong club culture. In that spirit, Cigar Social stands out as a top cigar-focused venue. It operates as a private business and cigar club, and it mainly runs during the day.

Cigar-first experience

Cigar Social keeps the focus on cigars and conversation. For example, you can browse books and magazines about cigar culture. Also, the cigar list includes about 20 leading brands. It usually splits them into Cuban and New World options. In addition, the club sometimes hosts tastings and showcases rare or aged cigars.

Membership and tourist access

Cigar Social has around 1,300 members. However, it may offer tourists a daily membership card. You’ll often need a passport for that. Even so, the venue decides case by case.

Design and drinks

The atmosphere feels warm and classic. Dark wood floors set the tone. Thick rugs and soft brown leather chairs make it comfortable. Also, the walls feature large photos of famous cigar smokers.

At the bar, you’ll find a good range of spirits. You’ll also find wine, although the list is not huge. Plus, the club offers soft drinks and quality coffee.

Cigar Social
1300 Hay Street, West Perth
(+61) 438 474 891
https://cigarsocial.com.au

Sydney: Cohibar

Sydney is Australia’s largest city. It also has one of the country’s busiest waterfront areas. In Darling Harbour, you’ll find Cohibar. It blends a cigar lounge with a lively cocktail bar. Most importantly, it sits right on the water.

The view adds a lot to the experience. On many Saturdays, the harbour hosts fireworks. In winter, the area often lights up with seasonal events too. Also, Cohibar sits near major attractions. So, it draws a trendy crowd looking for a polished night out.

Cigars and policies

As the name suggests, Cohibar leans into Cohiba cigars. The venue stores them in modern humidors. At the same time, you can often bring your own cigar. If you do, you may pay a cutting fee.

Seating setup

Most cigar smoking happens on a covered terrace. In winter, heaters keep the space comfortable. In addition, a long bar counter runs along the railing. That spot is perfect for the skyline view.

Reservations and group rules

Because of local rules, Cohibar often requires a reservation. Also, the venue may require a minimum of four guests per booking. Therefore, it works best for friends or business groups.

• If you have more than 10 people, book a few days ahead.

• If you have more than 20, ask about a private room. You can often order food there. You may also get entertainment options. Above all, you still get that harbour view.

Cohibar
359 Harbourside, Darling Harbour, Sydney
(+61) 2 9282 9444
www.cohibar.com.au