LOUNGE HIGHLIGHT: TOBACCO GROVE
Tobacco Grove, owned and founded by Jeff Haugen of Crux Cigars, is a beautiful cigar lounge located in the heart of Maple Grove, about 20 miles northeast of Minneapolis. Tobacco Grove has been a cornerstone of the cigar culture serving the Twin Cities area for over 20 years. The shop is known throughout the industry for its exceptional service, knowledgeable staff, inviting atmosphere, and its top tier selection of cigars and accessories.
We had the privilege of sitting down with Rick Baker, President of Tobacco Grove, to learn more about what makes the shop stand out among the rest. Rick and his team focus on high quality service to the customer above all else, and that is made clear the second you walk into the shop. Rick described walking into the store to Cheers, where everyone knows who you are, and if they don't, they are inclusive and inviting to new guests! Tobacco Grove does not have the typical “smokey backroom” vibe that is often found at cigar lounges. The lounge space is an open concept with bright colors and designs. Rick described the aesthetic as if you were walking through the streets of Havana.
In regards to the cigars Tobacco Grove carries, they are a part of several associations that allow them to stock a huge range of products, including rare and exclusive releases that their customers love. Being a part of these associations allow them to be in networks with shops and retailers all across the country like The Tobacconist’s Association of America (TAA) and The Premium Cigar Association (PCA). They are also one of roughly 25 Davidoff White Label appointed merchants in the U.S.. If you have been smoking cigars for years and know your way around a humidor, you will be sure to find new and exciting products to try. If you have yet to smoke your first cigar, the staff will be more than excited to help you get started and direct you to the perfect cigar for you!
Next time you are in the Twin Cities area, be sure to visit Tobacco Grove! You will be glad you did!