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Coolest Cigar Shop I've Ever Seen

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Am I the only guy who looks at that and sees a shop that looks like more of a destination than a tobacconist? I haven't been there but I know the owners from their previous 2 stores. Good selection, great turnover, well respected. This just looks like it is less the cigar and more the "good life". We all blast CA but have to mop up the floor under our open mouths when we think of this place.

Those of you who know Mike & Sammy better than I, what do you think? Did they sell out to get this done? Can you go in there, have a great conversation with the staff and learn something or is it stocked with $7 lackies in order to afford the mortgage? Please, give me some reassurance this "mecca" of cigar stores is truly worth the hype!
They just opened, give them some time to work it out. I think they planned the place out great. They are trying something new and have great big balls to spend that much money in an industry under fire. My hat is off to them.
 

Kurtdesign1

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They just opened, give them some time to work it out. I think they planned the place out great. They are trying something new and have great big balls to spend that much money in an industry under fire. My hat is off to them.
Brings up a good question. How much of this was paid for by Altadis or other outside investors who might have influence on them?
 

CWS

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Brings up a good question. How much of this was paid for by Altadis or other outside investors who might have influence on them?
Who cares? I financed the buy out of the Dairymart store chain when I was at Philip Morris and in exchange for a deal they promenientely placed Miller Beer and PM cigs upfront. Didnt stop them from selling all the others at the same time. Good to see a major investment in the face of all the regulators.
 

Kurtdesign1

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Who cares? I financed the buy out of the Dairymart store chain when I was at Philip Morris and in exchange for a deal they promenientely placed Miller Beer and PM cigs upfront. Didnt stop them from selling all the others at the same time. Good to see a major investment in the face of all the regulators.
While I agree with your inference that influence isn't always tied to selling out, I'd rather help the "ma & pa" type store, rather than the cigar industries version of "big tobacco", if that indeed is what's happening here.

So, to answer your question, I care. With so many other small time B&Ms or reputable internet vendors tied to B&Ms out of state, I would prefer to avoid supporting certain companies, if I have the choice.
 

Jadawin

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I havent had the chance to make the drive out there yet, but im sure i will in the next few months to check it out.

Craig, you can always just stick to Burning Leaf and Bull and Bear, you know your business is always appreciated!:smile:
 

TheCigarKid

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I just became a member here, if anyone is ever around be sure to let me know so I can meet you for a smoke!
 

njstone

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They just opened, give them some time to work it out. I think they planned the place out great. They are trying something new and have great big balls to spend that much money in an industry under fire. My hat is off to them.
Eric--YOU are my favorite shop in my area, bro! I'm up in Dayton and don't make it down much, though. We're moving to Japan soon (Air Force) so I have to try to make it down and see you one more time before I leave!
 
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I've been to many ciagr places across the US and must agree this one tops them all. Sam's brother-in-law was a gracious host and gave me a tour of the place. Although $250 seems steep and a bit of a drive for me (45 minutes away), I might commit my business to them, so I can enjoy the lounge from time to time.

Sam and Mike were wonderful guys too.

I felt like I was in a Prada or Louis Vuitton store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills (Very posh, upscale and unbelievable!). It was pretty amazing when I walked into the store and was blown away when I went to the VIP lounge. If it wasn't for cool people, I'd felt out of place.

Karlton
 

Jfire

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It is nice to sit on the lounge chairs in the v.i.p. section and just watch the new people getting a tour when they walk off the elevator!:wtf:
 

Kurtdesign1

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Visited today and gave it my objective analysis. The verdict is positive. Lounge is nice. Ventilation is terrific. Libations & offerings were nice. Electronics were terrific. Staff was nice (some excellent, some not so excellent). Vintage & special selections were a great touch. All in all, I enjoyed the place and plan to return. The choices this retailer has made to differentiate themselves have shown, and many are right in line with what I would do if I was running a shop. The lounge, while opulent, seems to be lacking that personalized touch which usually comes with time. It feels more like a swanky cigar bar than a members-only getaway.

What sets this shop apart is truly the well stocked walk-in. Its not the best selection I've ever seen but it hits the most peaks. As many of you know, a few manufacturers agreed to share some of their private stock for a small escaparate type room. Plus, a vintage room rounds out the depth of the cigars for sale.

Truly an interesting experience to behold.
 
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I have gone here few times, was really nice but didn't have time to mingle or check out any other areas than the cigar shelves. i live in tinley and work in Lagrange so may start going there more often, maybe i will see some of you guys.
anyone want to exchange info and meet up for some smokes?

-Tony
 

TheCigarKid

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I know I'll be at the JD 4, Pepin and Pete dinner, and especially the Padron Xmas celebration!
 
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Looks real plush, nice low key atmosphere from what I can see. I would have to be there in person to fully appreciate it! Thanks for posting!
 

MichiganM

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Wow, just came across this thread. That place looks amazing. Too bad I'll probably never see it in person. They did a great job with that place.
 
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