Vincent & Tampa Cigar Co.

Vincent & Tampa Cigar Co. carries the old Tampa character that cigar lovers around here treasure. Ask anyone who has spent an afternoon at the tables and they'll tell you about the dominoes games in the back rooms, the espresso, and plenty of open space up front to relax and enjoy a smoke. It's now co-located with Chewy's Lounge over on N Armenia Avenue, and the lounge has grown into something special: a full bar, a wine selection, live music in the evenings, and a private back room. The vibe is exactly what you'd want in west Tampa.

The cigar selection is the heart of it, and it's a good one. We've heard the sticks are stored beautifully, and folks have walked out happy with names like the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos. If you want accessories, they'll set you up too: one local came in looking for a distinctive lighter and cutter and left with a Colibri Quantum triple torch V-cutter, plus a perfectly chosen starter pack of cigars. Humidors, lighters, cutters, the works.

Eric runs the place, and his name comes up again and again. People say he'll come out to greet you, answer questions, and treat you like a family friend whether you know your way around a cigar or you're just getting started. Nobody leaves feeling lesser for not knowing much. One regular put it simply: he drives 35 minutes each way because the service and fair prices are worth the trip.

This is one of the highest-rated cigar shops in the Tampa area, and it earns it. If you're after a true Tampa cigar shopping experience with real hospitality, make it a point to stop in.