With so many bars and restaurants throughout the Pittsburgh region prohibiting smoking, finding a cool hangout where you can relax with your favorite cigar may seem difficult. Look into these bars and lounges and you'll find some great options that cater specifically to cigar connoisseurs. From the welcoming, masculine atmospheres of establishments like The Cigar Den to the upscale and classic setting of Cioppino Restaurant's mahogany bar, you're certain to find the perfect place to enjoy your cigars and throw back a few drinks. Whether you're a newbie to the cigar bar scene or you're simply looking to explore a new location, these five cigar bars come highly recommended by Pittsburgh cigar lovers.
For a classic and upscale cigar experience, enter Cioppino Restaurant's breathtaking mahogany cigar bar. There's plenty of room to host 40-100 of your cigar-loving friends, making this bar a prime location for cocktail parties and after-work gatherings. More than 20 varieties of cigars are available through Cioppino, including favorites like Padron No. 35, Olivia Series V and Gregcliff Pirate, as well as a full dining menu and custom-crafted cocktails. Several gigantic plasma TVs and complimentary WiFi are also offered. Cioppino Restaurant is located in Pittsburgh's Strip District.
Upon first glance, Jernigan's Scotch & Cigar Bar may not look like much more than the typical cigar/tobacco store, but venture farther into the store and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the hidden treasure of scotch and cigars that await you. Located on the lower level of The Galleria of Mount Lebanon, Jernigan's is home to one of the region's top-rated intimate cigar pubs that both smokers and non-smokers will appreciate. An innovative atmospheric control system helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere while soaking up an evening of entertainment, cigars and delicious drinks. Conveniently purchase your favorite fine cigars from makers like Don Pepin, Motecristo, Caribe and Partagas or check out quality pipes from Peterson, Chacom and Savinelli if you prefer. Finish off the evening with cocktails, spirits, beer and wine in the bar that also serves a light menu of pizzas, nachos, antipasto and sandwiches.
If you're hanging out downtown and looking for a cool new bar to check out, head over to the D.L. Clark Building, home to The Cigar Bar. Inside, you'll be greeted by the area's largest selection of premium cigars as well as spirits, including bourbons and single malt scotches. Start your evening off with a light appetizer or filling meal from the bar's extensive menu of local dishes. Then light up your favorite cigar for an after-dinner treat. For those south of the city, The Cigar Bar also has a second location at Bistecca Steakhouse & Wine Bar at The Meadows Racetrack and Casino.
Latitude 40 may be best known for its dining and entertainment among non-smokers and the under-21 crowd, but cigar connoisseurs rank Latitude Lit cigar lounge among some of the best in the region. Located upstairs in the Sammartino and Marino private rooms near the Axis Bar & Stage is a true cigar bar gem that features cocktail-style seating, HDTVs, exquisite leather furniture and an unlimited selection of cigars and cocktails. Every cigar is personally chosen by Latitude Lit's cigar team, so you can ensure you'll be smoking only the highest quality cigars. However, you are welcome to bring your own favorites to the lounge where private humidor boxes are available for monthly rental. Check out Latitude Lit for your next corporate event, bachelor party and even private poker games.
Lawrenceville's The Cigar Den is one of the neighborhood's newest additions to the Pittsburgh cigar bar scene and has quickly earned rave reviews for its relaxed, guy-friendly atmosphere. There's no membership required to kick up your feet and smoke your favorite in one of The Cigar Den's two smoking lounges that feature air conditioning to prevent the space from getting too smoky. A pool table, outdoor seating, HDTV with surround sound and a wide selection of cigars from more than 16 brands are a favorite among regulars. Smokers are encouraged to bring their own beer if they would like a drink.