A Lounge from the Pages of History. The Owl Shop – New Haven, Connecticut
“The Owl” in New Haven is a cigar lounge that forms part of a large and historic cigar and tobacco complex. The shop first opened in 1934 as a bookstore, founded by a Greek immigrant who arrived in the United States in 1925. Alongside books, he sold pipe tobacco and even blended his own mixtures by hand. From the very beginning, however, tobacco products proved to be the shop’s most sought-after items.
Within a few years, the business expanded to five locations across New Haven. In 1951, all of the “Owls” were consolidated under one roof on College Street, where the shop still resides today.
After the founder’s death, his wife carried on his legacy, becoming one of Connecticut’s leading tobacco merchants and the state’s exclusive distributor of Davidoff products. In 1998, she sold the business to new owners, who also acquired a license to sell and serve alcohol. Since 2004, The Owl Shop has held a unique distinction: it is the only public venue in the county where patrons are legally permitted to both smoke and drink.
Today, The Owl Shop remains one of the finest cigar stores and cigar lounges in the United States. The lounge itself is elegant and inviting, hosting live music performances every week, a cocktail bar featuring more than 200 varieties of whisky, a coffee bar, and a menu of light meals.
In the vast original humidor—where the legendary Owl Shop Tobacco blend was once created—guests will find an impressive selection of Davidoff cigars, alongside some of the most complete collections of classic and boutique brands, including La Aroma de Cuba, Macanudo, Montecristo, Nub, Cohiba, Ashton, Don Pepin Garcia, and more.
The design is resolutely classic: heavy wood throughout, antique-style ceiling fans, and a long bar lined with leather-upholstered stools. Red brick walls, leather armchairs set on wooden floors, and woven rugs complete the atmosphere—evoking the feeling of a private club from a bygone era.
Address:
268 College Street, New Haven, Connecticut
Phone:
(203) 624-3250
Website:
www.owlshopcigars.com
