Payne Mason knows how to take your special event to the next level…read more Though I don't personally smoke cigars, their 100% handcrafted selections--expertly rolled by Cuban master artisans--are undeniably something I'd find irresistible if I were a cigar lover to cigar enthusiasts. If you're seeking a distinctive and memorable addition to your event, Payne Mason is an exceptional choice.

I came here from a recommendation from a friend. I was looking to purchase some cigars for a…read morefriend for the holidays and wasn't sure what to expect. When I walked in the place looked like an amazing members only club with a nice chair, display cases and just a nice laid back feel. The cigar shop is set in the business complex across the street from the in and out off of Palomar airport road. Easy to find and lots of parking, there's little shop is a true hidden gem. I'm grateful that they were there to help me find the perfect gift for my friend at a great price.

Great place to relax and enjoy a quality cigar!! Staff very knowledgeable and friendly.read more

Great staff and stick selection! Casual place to kick back and socialize over a smoke.read more

There is no better cigar spot in South OC. Absolutely fantastic staff. So helpful and friendly. The…read morelounge is awesome and the people in there are always great. They recommend the Godmother cigar and my goodness they're incredible. I used to always get Davidoffs but now this will be my new favorite and go to! Highly recommend.

One of our favorite boys night hangout spots…read more It's always a good time here. Nice variety of cigars to pick from and a great cigar room in the back. Staff is always friendly and knowledgable about the cigars. They also make fantastic cocktails and persian food. For about 50-60 bucks, you can have yourself a nice cigar and 2 old fashions. surprisingly, everytime we come here, there's always just enough seats for our party.

Was looking for some cigars, heard about this spot and the photos on Yelp looked good. Here was my…read moreexperience. AMBIANCE Parking: Hillcrest area--street parking, might take a minute depending on the time. Seating: Multiple lounge-style areas--couches, chairs, even a pool table setup. Plenty of space to spread out and hang. Good for small groups Vibes: Welcome to the Hillcrest Gay-borhood. It's an eventful place from good eats to bars. This place leans heavy into that speakeasy / vintage lounge feel--dim lighting, moody atmosphere, and a slightly cinematic vibe. It almost feels like stepping into another era. DRINKS / EXPERIENCE They've got a solid selection of wine, beer, and cigars, and the humidor (cigar storage room) is stocked with a variety of options for different preferences. Even if you're not a cigar expert, the staff is known to help guide you toward something you'll actually enjoy--which makes it approachable for both beginners and regulars. CUSTOMER SERVICE Friendly and knowledgeable. Rocky was pretty helpful. TL;DR OVERALL 4 Stars. Solid selections and pleasant vibes. I'm not into the cigar culture but it looks like a unique spot in San Diego. Great for a chill night out, especially if you're looking for something different from the usual bar scene. TIPS: * Take your time--this isn't a rush-through spot * Ask for recommendations if you're new to cigar

I had my doubts walking up to the place. It's in an alley and nothing good has ever come from a…read morebusiness down one of those. But as soon as i walked in, I knew I was in for a gem and it didn't disappoint. I had such a great experience at Cigar Cave! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel right at home. They were fun and totally added to the vibe of the place, even if they inserted themselves into our conversation. Their energy was part of some really dope vibes and good fun! The selection of cigars they recommended based on the flavor profiles we described was spot-on. They have hundreds of cigars as well. Close the door when you enter and exit to keep the cigars fresh. They also serve beer and wine in cool glasses, which was a nice touch. The place has a low-lit, smokey, and had an edgy vibe that just screams chill. The decor is really unique and adds to the overall ambiance. Plus, they'll even change the TV to whatever you want, so you can kick back and enjoy your time however you like. It's super comfy and relaxed. I would definitely recommend this spot to others but not too many because I want to make this part of my monthly routine. If you're in Hillcrest and want a laid-back, fun place to grab a cigar, this is it!

Yes, I love cigars about one a week and all of a sudden there are a whole bunch of new vape shops…read morethat say they sell cigars. I trust Gregg and the Grotto because he and his staff know me and what I like. Period! If you want a gift... done! Want to smoke one in the Grotto? Done. Need accessories? Also done. Great spot and service with easy parking.

I would give this place, and it's wonderful owner SIX stars if I could! Was never a cigar girl, but…read morestopped in with a loved one, and I can't have had a better introduction! Greg will help you find the perfect cigar whether you're brand new or have been enjoying them for years, he's your guy! He's attentive to every customer and makes you feel like family. The lounge has a perfectly curated vibe, and you feel right at home. My loved ones stop in regularly and we are always greeted like old friends. As long as the shop is there, we will keep going!

On my cigar quest and always heard about this spot. I'm glad to finally check it out. Here was my…read moreexperience: AMBIANCE Parking: Hillcrest street parking--can take a minute, but manageable. Seating: Indoor seating and outdoor lounge setup with chairs and tables--very laid back and open. You even get to sit in an island on the road. Vibes: Welcome to the Hillcrest Gay-borhood. Super unique. It's a coffee shop + plant shop + cigar lounge hybrid, which gives it a really relaxed, community feel. Definitely not your dark, moody cigar bar--this is more daytime-friendly, approachable, and welcoming. It feels like a spot where you can casually hang, whether you're new to cigars or already into them. DRINKS / EXPERIENCE They've got a curated selection of premium cigars ranging from beginner to more experienced options, plus coffee, beer, and wine to pair with it. CUSTOMER SERVICE Isiah was dope! He was friendly, welcoming and knew his stuff. TL;DR OVERALL 4 Stars. Solid experience. Good range from cigars to the type of ambiance you're trying to take. A refreshing take on a cigar lounge. More casual and community-driven than traditional spots, which makes it super approachable. Great if you want to ease into cigars or just enjoy a relaxed hang in Hillcrest. TIPS: * Ask about cigar + drink pairings--they lean into that

Good service. Decent selection if cigars and chill ambience…read more Great coffee. Front desk staff was accommodating, good conversations happening, friendly atmosphere.

I intentionally booked an air bnb walking distance to a cigar lounge never being in LA before. This…read morewas the one and my boyfriend and I were not disappointed. Manny was very accommodating on helping my bf find a cigar that he couldn't get at home. We went every night after our activities for the day. They even let us enjoy our cigars in the members lounge. Amazing lounge with great people. Made us feel like we were at home in our own cigar lounge. Thanks again Manny and Mike! Lesley and Matt from Oklahoma.

This is definitely one of our favorite spots in LA. We love sitting outside & people-watching, the…read moreatmosphere is always welcoming and relaxed. Whether you're a cigar enthusiast or simply accompanying someone who enjoys cigars, you'll feel right at home. While the lounge doesn't serve food, there are plenty of nearby restaurants within walking distance, and delivery options are also available. The service is exceptional, Manny always provides outstanding hospitality, and honestly, everyone we've encountered here has been friendly and attentive. The lounge features a members-only area, a well-stocked walk-in humidor with plenty of cigar selections, and comfortable indoor seating available for non-members as well, limited seats in front area. The patio offers high-top seating, perfect for enjoying the lively surroundings. The private area is really nice for the members, lots of seating, TV's, a board room area, etc. The location is excellent, with metered street parking available and a nearby parking garage for added convenience. Overall, it's a fantastic place to unwind, socialize, and enjoy the cigar lounge experience.

This place is heaven for cigar lovers. I had the pleasure of visiting this lovely cigar club…read moreyesterday and everything about it is perfection. The decor is fabulous, the staff is kind and welcoming, and the atmosphere is so nice. It's a great place to enjoy a nice cigar respite with good friends, and the patrons here are very nice as well. Big shoutout to Steve, the GM, who puts the H in hospitality. He is a mensch and a half. I am looking forward to coming here again. Thank you!

This review is long overdue! I've been a VIP member for about six months, and I'm almost a daily…read morevisitor. The lounge has two main areas. First, there's the sophisticated bar, which is smoke-free and the perfect spot for high-end spirits and amazing cocktails (The Gov'ner Old Fashioned is a must-try!). The staff are welcoming, friendly, and always smiling! They've started adding some events to the schedule, like Whistlepig/Cigar tastings, Cajun Boil, Macallan tastings, and wine tastings. They're also introducing a late-night happy hour with food and live music, which is a great way to enjoy a sophisticated drink when most restaurants have closed in the area. The second part of the lounge is the two cigar lounges: the day lounge and the VIP lounge, which has lockers. Both lounges have high-end luxury seating and lots of screens for all your favorite sports. The staff keeps the lounges clean with friendly service. At the back, there's a walk-in humidor that's well-stocked with a great selection, including Davidoff, Padron, Opus X, Fuentes, My Father, Foundation, and Placencia, just to name a few. The Winston House stick blended by Placencia is an incredible stick for an exceptional price! Both lounges have a bunch of friendly regulars, so it's always easy to find conversation, or you can just relax and enjoy the moment! This place is a hidden gem that I consider to be the best cigar lounge in SoCal!