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November 2024 by Jeremy Edmunds
There exists, nestled improbably between a discount retailer and a sandwich shop in suburban Connecticut, a testament to America's enduring romance with ritual and relaxation. North of Havana Cigar Lounge, with its ambitious square footage and democratic approach to luxury, represents something increasingly rare in our modern landscape: a genuine third place.
The space unfolds like a revelation. Past the initial cognitive dissonance of its strip mall façade, one discovers an expansive sanctuary where hardwood floors extend toward distant walls, and an artfully patterned drop ceiling—alternating between white and warm copper tones—draws the eye upward. The lighting, soft and considered, casts the kind of glow that makes everyone look like they belong in a Raymond Chandler novel.
Leather seating, arranged with the careful choreography of a stage set, creates pockets of intimacy within the grand scale. Chesterfield couches, bearing the dignified patina of countless conversations, anchor the space. Wall-mounted televisions and curated artwork complete the tableau, though they feel almost superfluous in a room designed for face-to-face discourse.
The lounge's membership structure and cutting fees might raise eyebrows among the uninitiated, but they serve as gentle guardians of a carefully cultivated atmosphere. The well-stocked humidor offers both accessibility and sophistication—a metaphor, perhaps, for the establishment itself.
What strikes us most forcefully is not the physical space, impressive though it may be, but rather the democratic spirit that pervades it. Here, in an age of increasingly stratified social spaces, is a venue where the banker and the bulldozer operator might share not just space but perspective, united in the contemplative ritual of a good cigar.
Yes, there are imperfections. The strip mall location challenges expectations. Some fixtures bear witness to the passage of time. But in these supposed flaws lies authenticity—a quality far more valuable than mere polish.
The leather speaks of men who wait,
In copper light they congregate.
Wood beneath and smoke above,
In strip mall walls they find their love.
The leaf burns slow, time burns too,
In circles rising, old and new.
No kings, no pawns, just brothers here,
Where smoke rings drift and disappear.
The humidor stands proud and tall,
While wisdom whispers through it all:
That peace lives not in gilded rooms,
But where the honest cedar blooms.
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November 2024 by Jake Labate
Recently I've been checking out new cigar shops across CT, and I'm a regular at a few at them.
One of the team members at North of Havana Cigar Lounge, Franky, greeted and welcomed me in a more-than-generous manor. He was delighted to show me place and to make me beyond comfortable.
In all my limited life experience, Franky is the kind of welcoming, friendly, inviting, light-hearted person I'd love to interact with as an attendant at any cigar shop or social establishment.
I will certainly be back with a few friends next time.
Thank you Franky!!!
PS: To prospective attendees: Check out their membership plans, they are very affordable in comparison with cigar lounge prices I've seen around CT.
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October 2024 by Chris Acevedo
This place is great, staff is very nice and knowledgeable. It was my first time here and they definitely took care of me and they have good prices. Also very chill place to hang out and enjoy a smoke with everything you need. Definitely would recommend! Shoutout frank, he’s a legend
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October 2024 by Dan J
Cigar selection stinks! Pretty nice otherwise, but I just wanted to grab a cigar, and most boxes were empty. Very small selection in a good-sized humidor.
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July 2024 by robert nevola
I had a wonderful experience, purchasing my Nub, cigar or from Storm a wonderful young lady, who was so helpful and kind. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend your cigar shop to anyone.
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May 2024 by Antonio Liguori
Happy I visited today. I was looking for a cigar and was indecisive, but Brodie stopped in and recommended a Camacho cigar I haven't had before and the interaction and experience was great. Look forward to coming by again, the atmosphere was definitely accommodating. Thanks!
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April 2024 by Christina Lombard
I stopped by with zero expectations except to have a cigar and maybe get some studying done. Body, an absolute unit of a human and the nicest guy ever gave me a tour and helped me pick out a cigar and even a good spot for me to study. He's a true aficionado that is happy to share his wisdom with zero judgment, just love for what he's doing! This place is better than BYOB, you can keep your own personal cache for drinks and bring food if you want. Very comfortable seating and even though other customers were watching a game and chatting, it was still peaceful enough to get a solid couple hours of studying done! 5/5 will come here whenever I need a cigar to unwind.
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November 2023 by R
friendly helpful staffgood selection
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November 2023 by T M
Great spot!
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October 2023 by JT. Picarella
Good selection of cigars and the price is in line with most lounges in the area.The lounge is roomy and well maintained only loss of the a star is the minimum purchase of a $15 cigar and $10 lounge fee.I will definitely be back if in the area
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July 2023 by John Pitts Jr
Great place to buy cigars, people are very friendly
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July 2023 by Luiggi D
Great spot ! The girl at the counter knows very well every cigar .
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May 2023 by Dylan P.
Rude owners & overall bad vibe, plenty of better lounges in the area. also have heard on multiple accounts that they don't pay their staff on time/ properly. not a great selection either. gives off a gas station cigar lounge vibe
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March 2023 by Eric S
Really cool spot. First time there, greeted by employee and brought into humidor. Nice selection. Was attentive, gave solid recommendations, and was knowledgeable. Able to enjoy a good stick with some family members in an enjoyable environment. Sure, there’s a $10 surcharge for non-members, but you get some nice comfy couches, access to fridge, tvs, etc. Wasn’t too busy on a Sunday afternoon so we were able to have our pick of different seating locations in the back room. Ample seating. Can’t complain at all. Will be back!
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March 2023 by Kunta Spell
I can go on & on about NOH. Been a member for 2 years now. Absolutely love it. Staff? ????. The owners? ????. Great place to relax and get away from reality for a few hours. Very spacious. Good selection of cigars. Highly recommend.
