Cigar Life

If you spend any time around cigars in Lakeland, you already know Cigar Life. It's one of the highest-rated spots of its kind in the area, and the reputation is well earned. Locals compare walking in to walking into Cheers, where everyone knows your name and the owners, Mario and Patti, make you feel at home the moment you're through the door. Ask anyone who shops here and they'll tell you the same thing: these two are among the nicest people in the cigar business, and that warmth carries right through to the staff.

The humidor is the centerpiece, and folks around town say it holds one of the largest cigar selections in central Florida. It's a walk-in, kept clean and well organized, with no musty odors to speak of. You'll find plenty of names here, including Arturo Fuente, Padron, My Father Cigars, Oliva, Rocky Patel, Ashton, Drew Estate, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Cohiba, AJ Fernandez, Perdomo and more, including brands that aren't easy to track down elsewhere. Accessories are covered too, with lighters, cutters, ashtrays and humidors on hand.

Regulars keep coming back for the fair prices and the knowledgeable help; the staff will happily guide a newcomer to the right smoke, and many will tell you the owners went above and beyond, even helping arrange cigars for a wedding reception. The lounge is a big part of the draw. People describe it as one of the best layouts they've seen, with an individual living-room feel, a side bar, comfortable seating and several big-screen TVs that fill up on college and pro football weekends. There's beer and wine, a clean conference room for those who need it, and lockers for the daily regulars.

Events happen often, and it's the kind of place where an interesting mix of people gather over a shared love of a good cigar. If we're being straight, a couple of folks have wished for more ring-gauge variety and better ventilation, but that's a small note against a genuine Lakeland favorite. Stop in, relax after work, and make yourself at home.