São Paulo – A City That Demands a Fine Cigar
There’s something about the name São Paulo—it rolls off the tongue with a rhythm as lively and vibrant as the city itself. Naturally, such a dynamic metropolis deserves equally refined spaces where one can enjoy a fine cigar—whether before a night out, after a great meal, or as part of the evening’s indulgence.
Here are three standout cigar lounges in the “Brazilian New York” where aficionados can relax, light up, and soak in the city’s unique charm.
São Paulo – Where the Rhythm of the City Calls for a Cigar
There’s a musicality to the name São Paulo—vibrant, alive, and full of energy—that makes it almost inevitable to seek out the perfect spot in this city to enjoy a fine cigar. Be it before an evening out, as the night winds down, or right in the midst of the city’s buzz, São Paulo offers cigar lovers the ideal setting to light up and unwind.
As the largest city in Brazil—and in fact, all of South America—São Paulo is a sprawling metropolis of over 21 million people. It’s a true melting pot, home to one of the world’s most diverse immigrant communities, from Italians to Japanese, who transformed a remote 16th-century settlement into today’s bustling urban giant. It stands as the continent’s financial, cultural, and business capital, where sleek skyscrapers tower over colonial architecture that still whispers stories of the past.
Like its twin sister Tel Aviv, São Paulo never sleeps. The city pulses with constant movement and endless options: concerts, theatre, world-class museums, award-winning restaurants, underground parties, exclusive clubs, and vibrant bars. And amid it all, for the discerning cigar aficionado, a few havens exist where time slows down, the smoke curls gently, and every draw is a tribute to the soul of the city.
The story of Caruso Lounge, in its current form since 2016, is deeply rooted in São Paulo’s history. It dates back to the late 19th century, when Felipe and José Caruso, along with their parents and twelve siblings, emigrated from Italy to São Paulo. They quickly noticed the city’s upper class had a taste for fine cigars, and set up a small stand in the business district selling hand-rolled cigars. As demand grew, they even launched their own cigar factory.
Over time, as the business evolved and the Caruso family remained committed to serving a clientele who appreciated the finer things in life, the factory and storefront gave way to something even more refined—an exclusive cigar club that offers far more than just a smoking experience.
Today, Caruso Lounge is first and foremost a private members-only club, offering a curated lifestyle for the discerning aficionado. While it primarily caters to its loyal members, its doors are open to refined guests who embody elegance and appreciation for the good life.
The lounge is divided into thoughtfully designed areas, each offering a distinct experience. Highlights include a vintage-style barbershop; a private tailoring room by Ermenegildo Zegna; a polished shoe-shining station; a professional billiards table; a fully equipped meeting room; a members-only private humidor vault; a walk-in humidor with one of the most extensive brand selections in the city; a premium bar featuring top-shelf spirits of every kind; a richly appointed cigar lounge and VIP suite with leather armchairs; and a boutique gift shop showcasing luxury items.
In addition, Caruso Lounge hosts private events and cocktail evenings for its members, both on-site and externally. The club also offers bespoke concierge services that handle everything from car detailing to private helicopter rentals.
Address: Av. Horácio Lafer 44, São Paulo
Phone: (+55) 11 4999-3300 / (+55) 11 4999-2200
Email: contato@carusolounge.com.br
Espaço Quai D’Orsay – Where Parisian Elegance Meets São Paulo Soul
Stepping into Espaço Quai D’Orsay feels like entering a time capsule of refined indulgence, inspired by the golden era of the 1920s. Every detail in this cigar lounge is carefully curated to evoke a warm, relaxed ambiance wrapped in timeless luxury. Nestled in one of São Paulo’s upscale neighborhoods, just steps from the iconic Paulista Avenue, the club offers an experience that feels both cosmopolitan and intimate.
The story behind its name adds a touch of personal romance to the place. While searching for rare cigar brands not commonly found in Brazil, the founders stumbled upon Quai D’Orsay—a Cuban brand created in the 1970s specifically for the French market, named after a famed Parisian street and district. The discovery brought them back to a moment in November 2012, walking along the real Quai D’Orsay in Paris, dreaming of leaving their demanding careers to build something where business and pleasure could coexist. That dream became Espaço Quai D’Orsay, blending the spirit of São Paulo, Paris, and Havana into one harmonious retreat.
The lounge is housed in a beautifully restored 1920s mansion, where creative renovation blends São Paulo’s urban edge with the romantic charm of Parisian courtyards. On the ground floor, which welcomes walk-in guests, patrons can enjoy fine cigars, specialty coffee, and premium drinks in a refined yet inviting atmosphere. A serene outdoor garden area with a fountain offers a tranquil setting for those who prefer fresh air with their cigar and cocktail.
Upstairs, accessible to members only, an elegant private lounge with a fireplace and plush furnishings offers an even deeper sense of comfort and exclusivity.
Membership comes with an array of perks: a personal humidor, valet service, waived BYOC fees (usually R$25 per cigar), discounts, and access to members-only events. The lounge occasionally hosts live jazz, blues, and Latin music—check ahead for the schedule. While Brazilian law prohibits in-lounge food sales, a convenient arrangement with neighboring restaurants allows members to order gourmet dishes straight to their seat.
The cigar menu is impressively diverse, featuring Cuban classics, Dominican and Nicaraguan gems, as well as Brazil’s own premium labels.
Address: Rua Haddock Lobo 932, São Paulo
Phone: (+55) 11 3582-4444
Email: contato@quaidorsay.com.br
Lenat Cigar Club – A Cuban Twist Just Around the Corner
For aficionados seeking a more laid-back vibe, Lenat Cigar Club offers a relaxed yet refined experience—just a short stroll (less than 70 meters) from Espaço Quai D’Orsay. This hybrid cigar shop and lounge has recently been recognized as part of the prestigious Habanos Lounge program by Cuban cigar giant Habanos S.A.—a designation awarded to venues where one can not only enjoy a Cuban cigar on-site but also receive expert pairing advice with premium spirits.
As a member of this exclusive program, Lenat enjoys privileged access to a wide range of Cuban cigars, including rare and limited editions. Among the highlights is the Partagás Culebras, a unique and hard-to-find offering outside of Cuba. This distinctive cigar is actually a trio of Panatela-sized cigars braided together into one twisted masterpiece—a true collector’s item and conversation starter.
With its intimate setting, impressive humidor, and welcoming staff, Lenat Cigar Club is a perfect stop for those who appreciate quality without the formalities. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick smoke or settling in for a thoughtful pairing session, this understated gem offers a gateway to Cuba, right in the heart of São Paulo.
Address: Rua Haddock Lobo 844, São Paulo
Phone: (+55) 11 2309-4729
Email: contato@lenat.com.br
