Comments on: Stogie Tips: A Little Shoptalk

By: Adam B.

Adam B. — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:59:45 +0000

that's totally the Indian from Burke Cigar isn't it?

By: George E.

George E. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:38:41 +0000

Tony – I know what you mean. I don't mind being asked if I want any help or being told what's new or on special, but I often take forever checking out the stock and deciding what I want. Having someone hover — which, fortunately, isn't much of a problem for me — usually creates discomfort, the last thing you want at a cigar shop.

By: Tony K

Tony K — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:13:15 +0000

Agree with your points. I am also noticing a difference in the 2 shops closest to me. One is helpful, but lets me look around. The other is very pushy and always follows me right into the humi-room. They ask what am I looking for, and when I say I'm browsing and not sure yet, they keep asking and promoting, though I again say I would just like to see what I feel like….they stand there and hover. Too much pressure….feels like hurry up and buy and go. So, I end up buying much less than I would have. And now I will just not go there anymore.

By: George E.

George E. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:02:50 +0000

Alex – You make an excellent point. Every shop – cigar and otherwise – has a "personality" you notice when you walk in. Making a good first impression is vital to getting customers to return.

By: Alex S

Alex S — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:59:14 +0000

I like a place that is bright and feels like home. A lot of these place are dark with a business feel to them.

By: Frye

Frye — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:04:10 +0000

As a member of the US armed forces, I have been fortunate enough to frequent cigar establishements all over the US and the world. Along with your great points, I have two to add:

1. Leather furniture. It keeps the smell out! I really don't want to smell the cheap, poorly wrapped, chocolate coffee flavored acid stick that someone smoked 3 weeks ago when I'm trying to enjoy a Gurka Centurian and a glass of 20-year-old scotch. (No offense to those who enjoy acid cigars…it's just not my thing.)

2. A "well-selected" top shelf. Now I understand that this is very subjective topic, but I like seeing a top shelf that includes Rocky Patel, Gurka, and any name brand, well-aged vintage. If I see Hoyo de Monterey or Partagas up there, I'll leave, because obviously the place doesn't know what "top shelf" really means.

And as a bonus: If I walk into a place and see Black and Milds, Garcia Vaga's, or any kind of a cigarillo or cigarette…I'll leave.

I'm by no means a snob, but if you claim to be a true cigar establishment, these are three things that I feel you must have (or not have)!

By: LazyBoy

LazyBoy — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:00:32 +0000

I've always been partial to comfy chairs and couches…

By: Chris V

Chris V — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:34:50 +0000

Girls in bikinis?

By: George E.

George E. — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 08:56:46 +0000

Chris – Good points. Thanks for the input.

By: Chris Farley

Chris Farley — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 05:48:57 +0000

I agree with all of those points, although for variety, I like to see magazines that describe and detail cigars that the owner can and will order for you.

I also like to see accessories. I need a place to get good butane for my lighters, buy cutters, buy a cigar ashtray, etc. I think a good cigar shop should support all aspects of cigar smoking.

I also like to see a copy of the Stogie Guys Newsletter on the coffee table in the smoking lounge.