DRUMS — Sometimes, all you need to know about a place is in the name.
Best Cigar Pub in Drums is one of those places. As a matter of fact, it’s ‘the place’ to go to for top-shelf cigars, drinks and food, all with a view and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
General Manager Eric Wagner and Marketing Lead David Lewis shared a few other insights into what makes the Best Cigar Pub one of the best, period.
Born from one of the nation’s – and the world’s – largest e-Commerce tobacco companies, Best Price Cigars (www.bestpricecigars.com), the pub began as a means of having a retail store as part of the massive on-site shipping warehouse. “When people saw the return labels from the area, they thought ‘Oh, it’s in Drums. Maybe I could just buy them from there,” Wagner said. And after a few instances of folks showing up, looking to buy their smokes, the idea evolved and snowballed into the pub it is today.
Opened in December of 2019, the business only had a few short months before COVID-19 brought about its shutdowns. The pub then reverted to its roots in e-Commerce. And the staff? Well, they were also taken care of.
“We took all of our staff,” Wagner said, “our bartenders and retail employees and kitchen staff, and we offered them jobs.” They were able to find positions in the warehouse in distribution or customer service so folks (about 106 employees) were able to maintain a wage and benefits in uncertain times. The chefs even stayed on to cook for the staff and their families, and if that isn’t “best of” worthy, then what is?
After getting through that initial shutdown together, the pub was able to get back to business.
And as Lewis said of advertising the venue, “It’s a challenge because our demographic is so widespread.” With comedy, music, cigar-smokers and “60-70%” non-smokers coming out, it makes for interesting advertising. But no matter for Lewis who remarked, “It’s tricky on my end because you have to appeal to different crowds at all times, but it also makes my job fun.”
Through growing social media channels and flourishing word-of-mouth advertising, word has certainly spread. And with spring officially here, there’s even more to look forward to at Best Cigar Pub.
With a rotating, seasonal menu oversaw by Head Chef Daniel Panaway, the flavors of the year are sure to tantalize. Pair that with a wide variety of spirit and beer offerings, as well as seasonal cocktails, and the fare alone is enough to make Best Cigar Pub a must-visit.
Then there’s the patio, which, weather pending, opens about this time of year. With comfy seating and a beautiful view, it’s sure to be a go-to spot for any night out. Add to that five nights a week of live music (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday), and a variety of other acts and showcases, there’s never a dull moment.
And for those who do indulge in a good smoke, Lead Tobacconist Charlie Reed and his team know cigars like most know their own names. You’ll never come up short looking for a recommendation or a pairing and will most assuredly get the best smoke for your buck.
And for those who may be thinking, “Oh, it’s just another smokey bar,” that’s 180 degrees away from the truth. Wagner noted that before any major plans were laid out for the pub, an HVAC specialist was one of the first contacts.
Wagner explained, “We wanted smokers and non-smokers to both feel comfortable here.” The solution? Every three minutes, 100% of the air in the entire space is exchanged with fresh air. You could walk into Best Cigar Pub and never know a single cigar was ever smoked there … aside from the massive selection in the store.
So, whether you’re looking for an upscale dinner, drinks with friends, a place to hold a business meeting, or what to indulge in a large selection of spirits and beers and enjoy a top-shelf smoke, Best Cigar Pub is sure to please, time after time.
