Friday, May 2, 2025

The Spirit of Friendship, the Flavor of Fine Cigars.

Wine Bar at Gar-Vino's
The Villages, Florida, a sprawling retirement community, offers a vibrant lifestyle with a plethora of activities and amenities. Among these are unique spots where cigar aficionados can indulge in their passion. While dedicated "cigar bars" in the traditional sense might be limited, certain establishments cater to cigar enthusiasts, providing a comfortable and welcoming environment. Let's explore these havens across The Villages' distinct town squares.

Holy Sh'mokes: A Welcoming Lounge

While not located directly within one of the main town squares (Spanish Springs, Lake Sumter Landing, or Brownwood Paddock Square), Holy Sh'mokes stands out as a premier lounge for cigar lovers in The Villages. Situated at 1521 Buenos Aires Boulevard, this establishment offers a dedicated space for enjoying fine cigars, wine, beer, and coffee.

Cigar Selection: Holy Sh'mokes prides itself on a curated selection of premium cigars. While specific brands and offerings may vary, you can expect a range of well-regarded names and blends to suit different palates. The focus is on quality and providing enthusiasts with a satisfying smoking experience.

Ambiance and Why Visit: Holy Sh'mokes distinguishes itself with a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. Founded on principles of faith, fellowship, and friendship, it aims to be a relaxing and safe space for people to connect. The lounge features comfortable seating, creating an ideal setting for unwinding and enjoying a cigar with friends or fellow enthusiasts. They also have an outdoor patio. While live music schedules might vary, the primary draw here is the camaraderie and the opportunity to savor a cigar in a dedicated, comfortable environment.

GarVino's: Wine, Cigars, and More at Lake Sumter Landing

Located in the bustling Lake Sumter Landing Market Square at 1081 Canal Street, GarVino's offers a unique blend of fine wines, premium cigars, and a selection of gifts. While not exclusively a cigar bar, it provides a notable option for those who enjoy a smoke with their drink.

Cigar Selection: GarVino's maintains a selection of imported premium cigars. While the specific range isn't detailed as extensively as a dedicated cigar lounge, they cater to cigar enthusiasts looking for quality smokes to pair with their wine or enjoy independently. They also offer personal-sized humidors and other cigar accessories.

Music and Why Visit: GarVino's enhances the experience with live music, creating a relaxed and enjoyable ambiance. This makes it an appealing spot to unwind after shopping or dining in Lake Sumter Landing. The combination of a curated wine selection, quality cigars, and live entertainment provides a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. It's a great place to enjoy a cigar while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the Market Square.

The Town Squares: Entertainment and Open-Air Enjoyment

While the main town squares – Spanish Springs Town Square, Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, and Brownwood Paddock Square – don't host dedicated indoor cigar bars, they offer a unique open-air environment where cigar smoking might be permissible in designated areas, especially during evening entertainment.

Music and Ambiance: Each town square boasts nightly live music, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

  • Spanish Springs Town Square: Known for its Spanish-inspired architecture, offering a charming backdrop for evening entertainment. Recent revitalization projects aim to enhance its appeal as a gathering place. Live music typically features a range of genres, from classic rock to contemporary hits.
  • Lake Sumter Landing Market Square: Situated on the waterfront, providing scenic views as you enjoy the nightly entertainment. The music here also spans various genres, ensuring there's something for everyone.
  • Brownwood Paddock Square: The newest of the squares, designed with an "old-world Florida" cattle ranch theme. It features stadium seating around the stage, offering excellent views of the live bands playing a mix of country, rock, and other popular music.

Cigar Consideration: While not explicitly cigar bars, the open-air nature of the town squares might allow for cigar smoking in certain areas, adhering to community guidelines and respecting non-smokers. Enjoying a cigar while listening to live music in these lively squares offers a unique Villages experience. You can often find residents and visitors relaxing and smoking cigars while enjoying the entertainment.

Why Visit the Town Squares: The town squares are the heart of social life in The Villages. The nightly live music, diverse dining options, and bustling atmosphere make them must-visit destinations. Even without dedicated cigar bars, the open-air environment provides a unique opportunity to enjoy a cigar while immersing yourself in the community's energy and entertainment.

Other Potential Avenues

Beyond these specific locations, it's worth noting that some golf courses or private clubs within The Villages might have designated areas where cigar smoking is permitted. However, these are typically for members and their guests.

Conclusion: Finding Your Smoke in The Villages

While traditional cigar bars might be limited in The Villages, enthusiasts have options like Holy Sh'mokes, which offers a dedicated lounge experience, and GarVino's, where cigars can be enjoyed alongside fine wines and live music. Additionally, the vibrant town squares, with their nightly entertainment and open-air settings, provide a unique, albeit less formal, environment for enjoying a cigar while soaking in the community spirit. Whether you prefer a dedicated lounge or the lively atmosphere of a town square, The Villages offers avenues for cigar lovers to indulge in their passion. Remember to always be mindful of those around you and adhere to any community guidelines regarding smoking in public areas.

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