Recently on a excursion through NYC I was a little tired from walking and throwing it in the bag. It was hot outside and I was cigar-less. Then I look up and see the Montecristo Cigars establishment on 5th Ave. They have cigars & ac to save me.

I walk inside and there are plenty of cigars, but the air conditioner wasn’t the only thing cold. The looks I received were colder. Not one hello, may I help you or what do you usually smoke? If you don’t wish to assist me smile and walk away. Don’t look at me like, wtf are you doing here?

I know I know we go into cigar lounges for cigars not to be smacked on the butt & high fived. I am aware that this is a major tourist area and large places like this usually lack personality. That’s no excuse. Holt’s treated me great. Even J&R did when I used to go. There was one young man with twists in his hair who seemed to be lively and energetic about his role in the cigar industry. He was happily assisting another customer with a lighter. The rest of the staff appeared to be sizing me up for my burial suit. Not Luxe…

I took my money elsewhere. Instead I spent my almost $100 on pastries at Dean & Deluca for the women I love & got my cigars when I got back to Jersey. LUXE!