Philadelphia Cigar Company

Philadelphia Cigar Company has built a solid name for itself among cigar folks in Philadelphia, and it's easy to see why. The selection is what gets people talking first. Ask anyone who shops here and they'll tell you the range of premium cigars is deep enough that regulars sometimes have trouble deciding what to reach for, which is exactly the kind of problem you want at a cigar shop. The staff are the heart of the place.

If you're new to cigars and walk in with a hundred questions, they'll take the time to actually answer them and steer you toward something that fits your taste, no attitude about it. We've heard from more than one newcomer who came in unsure and left with the perfect stick in hand. One woman on the team in particular gets singled out for going out of her way to help. It's the kind of shop where the regulars know each other and greet newcomers with a warm welcome rather than a cold shoulder.

Then there's the lounge. People who spend time here appreciate having a comfortable spot to sit and enjoy a smoke, and by most accounts it's rarely packed, so you can settle in without fighting for a chair. The atmosphere stays friendly, with what one regular called a great cast of characters passing through. On value, folks are honest that you might find cheaper deals elsewhere, but plenty happily spend a little more to support a real local brick and mortar shop with knowledgeable people behind the counter.

To be fair, we've heard the occasional grumble about the humidor and how the cigars are stored, so it doesn't hurt to give your sticks a quick look before you buy. That said, the overall word around Philadelphia is strongly positive, and for a lot of cigar lovers here this is the only place they bother going. If you're anywhere nearby and want a genuine shop with good people and a proper selection, it's well worth a stop.