BONNIE’S EYE ON!

I am not and never have been a smoker. I really don’t like the smell of cigarette smoke; however, sometimes seeing a group of guys smoking a fine, expensive cigar is quite appealing.  I can’t imagine guys taking a “Mancation”, and there not be a cigar and a good drink involved. I did some investigating on Hauteliving.com, CBS Las Vegas and New York and found some interesting cigar bars in the country.

CHICAGO – The City of Big Shoulders

 Iwan Ries & Co. on South Wabash is a plush getaway for the cigar smoker.  Free Wi-fi; HD Screens are available in the BYO lounge.  There is even a board room for those who like to work while enjoying their favorite cigar.  Iwan Ries is one club that has hourly or yearly memberships. 

Tesa Cigar Company on North Halsted is a man cave where you can watch the game, enjoy a libation, and smoke a stogie.  All purchases of the Tabaclera Tesa line contributes toward providing housing repairs, education, and clothing to the people of Esteli, Nicaragua where the Tesa cigar factory is. 

Up Down Cigar Lounge on North Wells gets an honorable mention because it is owned by a woman and hosts monthly Chicago Cigar Dames secret smoking private events for ladies to come and enjoy a good cigar.


LAS VEGAS, the Mancation Capital of the World has many cigar bars along and away from the Strip.

Casa Fuente Las Vegas is inside of Caesars Palace on the Strip. It is known as one of the most elite of cigar lounges.  The open atmosphere and high-class décor will make any cigar smoker feel luxurious in this beautiful atmosphere.  I am told they have a mojito to die for.




Located just south of the strip, in Henderson is the Man Cave Cigar Lounge. It has modern living room seating that faces a gigantic television. It is an ideal place for those who want to see the game while enjoying a fine cigar.



NEW YORK, NEW YORK the Big Apple, is the Club Macanudo on east 63rd Street.  It is an elegant oasis in the heart of the Upper East Side. It has the décor you think of when you envision a cigar lounge. Mahogany furniture, buttery-soft leather chairs, and comfortable sofas.  There is a dress code folks. Gentlemen must wear collared shirts. T-shirts, shorts, athletic attire and sneakers, or flip flops are prohibited.


 Beekman Bar and Books is on 1st Avenue at 50thstreet. While Beekman’s is a non-smoking environment, you can get your cigar smoking on at Max’s Tobacco Shop located in the rear of the bar. Max’s also offers Shisha service (hookah). Max’s is upon from 5 pm – 2 am daily.


So ladies, when he comes home with a smile on his face, relaxed and smelling like a fine cigar, don’t give him any grief, tell him to take a shower and change his clothes, he’s just been have a good time with his boys.  If you have a favorite you would like to share with us we would love to hear from you.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong
Co-host of The Traveling Eye

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