The Best Places To Buy Cigars In Lisbon
From Cigar World to Tabacaria Mónaco, Lisbon can tickle the palate of even the greatest of cigar connoisseurs. Here we look at some of the best places to buy cigars in Lisbon
Cigars are all about time and place. Nobody takes out a cigar whilst waiting for a cab, for instance. Instead, when time slows down – over a fine wine, a big celebration, or a ruminative espresso, perhaps – the cigar offers a powerfully evocative acknowledgment of a moment that should be savoured. Lisbon is full of these ambient opportunities; fringed by the sea, peppered with Fado bars and freckled with piazzas, it’s hard not to slow down and let the slower pace of life here take a hold. To make sure you’re prepared when the moment comes, we’ve selected the best places to buy cigars in Lisbon.
Casa Havaneza
Selling cigars for more than 150 years, the secret to Casa Havaneza’s success over much of its history was the fact it constituted part of the Burnay Bank. Customers quickly got into the habit of buying a cigar after conducting their business, earning the shop a reputation that was only enhanced after being mentioned by famous national writers such as Eça de Queirós and Guerra Junqueiro. Now possessing three stores in total (Colombo, Amoreiras and Chiado), Chiado is the original, and considered by many, the best.
Cigar World
Possessing a great selection of cigars, from creamy Montecristos to the cinnamon notes of an expensive box of Bolivar Coronas Gigantes, Cigar World is highly regarded in Lsibon. Don’t be afraid to ask about flavours, accessories and pairings; the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and offer everything from pipe tobacco to smaller cigarillos. Located next to Jardin Amália Rodrigues, known for its bronze sculptures and fountains, as well as Estufa Fria, where tropical fauna flourish, it occupies the perfect spot to kick back and watch the world go by.
Tabacaria Mónaco
A gorgeous little tobacconist that’s 10 minutes from the sea, Tabacaria Mónaco glories in its reputation as the real vintage deal. Dating back to 1894, the shop’s kept its 19th century décor, its original Art Nouveau décor, as well as lots of artwork. Possessing works by the likes of Rosendo Carvalheira and Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, their vibrant colours almost detract from the real delight here: the cigar selection. Push past the international newspapers and foreign glossies to get your hands on a box of their finest, from caramel Partagas to the spicy notes of a Cohiba Siglo no. 2.
La Casa Del Habano
Open since 2009, La Casa del Habano dominates the cigar offering of Lisbon’s Marina – next to the Parque das Nacoes (Park of Nations). Known for its specialities, which include limited editions of several obscure and well-known companies, it’s humidor prides itself on not using any form of steam technology – like the standard models. On top of cigar options, there are lots pipe and tobacco accessories, as well as a special cabinet of spirits. This cupboard of delicacies includes Havana Club rum, Cohiba cognac, as well as a rare selection of eau-de-vies.