At the beginning of the 18th century, private gentlemen’s clubs for the upper class in England began to emerge in London. Such a club typically included a bar, a library, a dining area, sometimes a billiards table, and also a corner for reading newspapers. Men would gather here to discuss political matters, conduct business transactions, and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
In fact, the world’s first gentlemen’s club was established in London in the late 17th century and is still active today. This trend caught on, and in the early 18th century, London’s West End was filled with such clubs. Membership in these clubs reflected one’s social and economic status.
In those clubs of the time, there was no designated smoking area, as everyone smoked cigars, and smoking was allowed everywhere. Today, the situation is quite different, and there are not many places where smoking is permitted, and one can enjoy a fine cigar alongside a quality alcoholic beverage. Therefore, we went to London to give you a glimpse into three cigar lounges in the city that pays great homage to cigars.
Ritz London Cigars
This lounge is located within the luxurious and renowned Ritz hotel in London. It is known to appreciate some of the famous guests of the hotel who were known for their love of cigars, including Winston Churchill, Roger Moore, Charlie Chaplin, and others.
The lounge is situated on the lobby floor of the hotel, adjacent to a cigar shop and a sophisticated smoking room with a wide variety of cigars from around the world. Some are in premium editions, others in limited editions, and there are also vintage cigars. The staff will be happy to share the history of their private cigar series, Ritz London Cigars. These cigars pay homage to the classic tradition of Cuban cigars. They are medium to full-bodied, hand-rolled in the Dominican Republic, using high-quality tobacco from the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Mexico. The combination of premium tobaccos allows the master blender to create rich and unique blends.
The lounge itself is decorated in the classic London gentlemen’s style. Chairs and sofas with leather or velvet upholstery in warm mustard tones, along with other classic British furniture in the Art Deco style and late 19th-century style, create a refined atmosphere. Various types of wood and warm, soft lighting enhance the feeling of luxury. The bar offers a wide range of Scotch whiskies, cognacs, and rum. The dress code at the Ritz London Cigars lounge is elegant.
Ritz London Cigars:
– Address: The Ritz London Hotel, 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
– Phone: (+44) (0) 20 7493 8181
– Website: [www.theritzlondon.com/ritzlondoncigars](www.theritzlondon.com/ritzlondoncigars)
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
A bar offering cocktails and cigars, with a very pleasant and luxurious atmosphere. At the entrance, a sign displays a quote from Sir Winston Churchill: “I am easily satisfied with the very best,” capturing the essence of the entire experience.
The bar is located in the Hyatt Regency London and is considered one of the most famous and luxurious cocktail bars in the city. Its mixologists are highly acclaimed and have received numerous awards. In line with the bar’s namesake, Churchill, the iconic figure with a cigar in his mouth, it offers guests a variety of cigars from well-known brands worldwide, including special premium collections. These, of course, are stored in exquisite humidors that ensure optimal temperature and humidity conditions.
In addition to the renowned cocktails, the place boasts an extensive drinks bar with a selection of high-quality spirits and fine wines. The food menu is rich, featuring the British Imperial cuisine style. The place exudes elegance yet is full of joy. The wooden flooring and wall coverings adorned with letters written by Churchill to his wife Clementine add a historical touch. Leather and velvet chairs in shades of blue and yellow, along with other furniture items, contribute to an elegant blue theme. A rich library, shelves with special bottles, and a fireplace create a warm and refined atmosphere.
The Terrace, with its marble-covered walls, offers a green-surrounded environment, perfect for enjoying drinks and cigars. The terrace is heated throughout the year as needed, and guests are provided with lightweight blankets for comfort.
There is no strict dress code, but if you are coming in the evening, please dress accordingly.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
Hyatt Regency London
30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
(+44) (0) 20 7299 2035
[Link to the website](https://tinyurl.com/25ez3k5u)
Edward Sahakian Cigar Shop & Sampling Lounge
The intimate tracery and cigar shop of the renowned cigar connoisseur Edward Sahakian, located at the Bulgari Hotel London, is a cherished destination for discerning enthusiasts seeking truly unique vintage cigars.
In the shop, you will find Cuban cigars from leading brands such as Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Partagás, H. Upmann, and Hoyo de Monterrey, alongside cigars from the New World. The “crown jewels” include vintage and extremely rare cigars, many of which are from Sahakian’s private collection, such as Cohiba Majestuosos 1966 (3,000 pounds per cigar) or Cohiba Sublimes L.E. 2004 (1,200 pounds per cigar).
The intimate tracery features walls adorned with dark wood, as does the flooring. Wide and deep leather chairs in black harmonize well with the overall color scheme. The style is sophisticated, elegant, with a touch of modernity. The advanced air purification and smoke elimination system installed here is among the world’s finest. Humidors can be rented on-site, equipped with secure locks, for the long-term storage and preservation of cigars in optimal temperature and humidity conditions.
In addition to cigars, guests can enjoy a rich bar offering a variety of premium alcoholic beverages, including cognac, whiskey, and other high-quality spirits. The dress code is informal, but entry is not permitted in shorts or sportswear.
Edward Sahakian Cigar Shop & Sampling Lounge
Bvlgari Hotel London
171 Knightsbridge, London SW7 1DW
(+44) (0) 207 151 1010
[Link to the website](https://tinyurl.com/mvwzh5c3)
