Light it Up at SOHO CIGAR

Editor's Note: Broadwayworld welcomes this guest contribution by Julie Sagoskin. Julie has worked in News Production at CBS Radio and currently writes about all things food, celebrity and lifestyle related for multiple publications. You'll probably find her backstage at Fashion Week, trying the craziest new foods, or interviewing her favorite TV stars in and around NYC! Follow Julie on social media at @allthefamenoneofthefortune (all the fame none of the fortune).

Aside from being one of New York's oldest cigar bars and lounges and having their own line of handcrafted cigars, Soho Cigar Bar is also home to the only certified cigar sommelier in New York - and one of only eight in the world!

This cigar hotspot, formerly known as Circa Tabac, celebrated its 20th Anniversary on Wednesday, January 16th, and it's not hard to see why they are a popular and discreet destination for celebrities, athletes and discerning cigar aficionados alike. Stepping into this cigar bar, which is reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, is like going back in time - but with hip renovations! This smokin' space features plush leather furnishings and art deco inspired décor. Modern touches include a state-of-the-art ventilation system and flat screen TVs throughout, discreetly hidden behind timeless art photography.

Soho Cigar Bar, one of only eight spots in New York City where it is legal to light up, offers a unique experience where you can indulge in the finest cigars, including their very own line of SoHo Cigars, plus classic cocktails, rare whiskeys and a food menu which pairs perfectly with any of their smokes or single malts. Can't decide which brand of cigar or specialty cocktail to order? Not to worry! Certified sommelier Michael Dounoulis will help you select the perfect rich or spicy cigar with that Old Fashioned! With unlimited choices, Dounoulis will make sure you have the most satisfying smoke of your life while learning all about cigars in the process.

He might have a baby face, but the city's only cigar sommelier tobacconist Michael Dounoulis has been in the hospitality industry for 25 years. As a child, Michael would promote his family's restaurants by handing out menus on the Atlantic City boardwalk and was lovingly referred to as the best salesman in town.

When he moved to Manhattan, Michael worked at clubs and lounges before opening a club in Midtown. He also dabbled in the fashion industry before realizing he wanted to return to where he felt most at home, working in hospitality, and he has never felt more at home than at Soho Cigar Bar, where he was originally hired as the general manager in early 2018.

Dounoulis took courses at Tobacconist University to become the state's one and only cigar sommelier and now helps celebrities and cigar "newbies" alike find their perfect match! Michael is passionate about making a positive impact on customers and loves helping them select cigars to enhance their experience, including special flights and pairings. Mike describes his role as his dream job "where he is always growing and plans on keeping Soho Cigar Bar flourishing."

The only thing more welcoming than the décor at Soho Cigar Bar is their hospitable and extremely knowledgeable staff, so sit back, relax, and indulge in their impressive selection of both cigars and spirits. You'll be lighting up like never before!

Soho Cigar Bar, located at 32 Watt Street, is open to the public 7 days a week beginning at 12pm. For more information or to make reservations, please visit, http://www.sohocigarbar.com/.

Other Cigar Bars in NYC:

Sugar East, 1125 First Ave.

Grand Havana Room (members only) 666 Fifth Ave.

Hudson Bar and Books, 636 Hudson St.

Lexington Bar and Books, 636 Hudson St.

Club Macanudo, 26 E. 63rd St.

Karma Lounge, 51 First Ave.

The Carnegie Club, 156 W. 56th St.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of SoHo Cigar Bar

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