Explore top cigar lounges in Chicago, from historic Iwan Ries & Co. to the exclusive Biggs Mansion and luxurious Casa de Montecristo—a must-read for every cigar aficionado.
Discover the Windy City’s Finest Spots to Light Up
Chicago, once one of America’s leading tobacco hubs, is today a hotspot for premium cigar culture. From historic institutions to opulent lounges, the city offers aficionados some of the finest cigar experiences in the world.
In the late 19th century, the tobacco industry flourished in the Windy City. By 1860, over 200 registered tobacco manufacturers operated in Chicago. The city’s proud legacy continues today through the Cigar Society of Chicago, a historic association of retailers and cigar lovers active for over 150 years. Notably, it played a key role in introducing the world’s first decorative cigar tins in 1886.
Chicago’s rich cigar culture is intertwined with its storied past. During the infamous Prohibition era of the 1920s, speakeasies flourished, jazz ruled the night, and cigars were a staple of high society. That spirit lives on in some of the top-tier cigar lounges you’ll find today. Here’s a curated tour of three of the best cigar lounges in Chicago.
🔥 Note: Due to Illinois state law, alcohol cannot be sold inside cigar lounges. Most locations follow a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy. Simply bring your favorite bottle, and they’ll supply the glassware—usually with a minimum cigar purchase.
Iwan Ries & Co.
Iwan Ries & Co.
A Historic Jewel in the Heart of the City
Founded in 1857, Iwan Ries & Co. is not just a cigar lounge—it’s a Chicago institution. Located in a beautifully preserved 1881 building, this family-run establishment is one of the oldest cigar retailers in the U.S., now managed by the fifth generation of owners.
What to Expect:
Three distinct smoking areas:
A classic wood-paneled lounge with leather seating
A modern velvet room with giant HD screens
A business boardroom for meetings over cigars
Access to a sports bar-style lounge
Over 160 years of cigar heritage
A massive in-store humidor and retail section featuring rare cigars, accessories, books, and humidors
💰 Day pass: $15 | Annual membership: from $750 (includes Cigar Society perks and discounts)
📍 19 S Wabash Ave, 2nd Floor, Chicago 📞 (312) 372-1306 🌐 www.iwanries.com
Biggs Mansion
Biggs Mansion
Luxury, Legacy, and Leather
Tucked into the historic Biggs Mansion, built in 1874, this private cigar club blends old-world elegance with modern exclusivity. Renovated in 2014 with a $4M+ investment, Biggs reimagined the property into a members-only cigar haven.
Whether you’re chasing a vintage puro, meeting fellow aficionados, or just soaking up the atmosphere, Chicago’s cigar lounges offer an unmatched blend of history, hospitality, and high-end indulgence.
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