OK, so I guess for this area, this may be adequate. I prefer my local places in San Diego like Churchill or Excalibur much more. There's a $10 charge to get in to the Zarka lounge area if you're not a member. Once I was inside, I didn't find much enticing me to become a member. They have a decent humidor and the cute girls working there had basic knowledge of cigars, but that's where the positives for me ended.
The place was very stuffy and smoky... if you don't go to many cigar lounges, you may find that a funny statement. Most places have a decent ventilation system that circulates the air well. This place didn't... it had a couple of fans and that was it. It left the place very smoky and stale.
The $10 cover charge included a house beer, house wine or house well drink. I guess I should have opted for the wine or beer because the rum and coke I got was not only small, but very weak. I doubt there was even a full shot of rum in it.
As for decor... it was on the cluttered side and while the chairs were comfy, I guess I just didn't feel welcome after having to pay $10 to get in and then getting a weak drink. If you buy a cigar from a place, you shouldn't have to pay more just to enjoy the cigar at that same place. That's absurd. I won't be returning.
My favorite cigar lounge. Â Like the man cave away from the man cave. Â Great place to grab a fine scotch and enjoy a quality cigar. Â Wide selection of both. Â Awesome walk-in humidor. Â Flat screen TVs everywhere. Â Wall to wall beverage choices. Â Friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Â Beautiful girls. Â Why not?
Review Source:Largest humidor you are going to find anywhere in Southern California with some of the best prices. Â It is always a shock going to some of the cigar lounges in San Diego or L.A. because the same cigars are 5 or more dollars expensive. Â
Since I have moved here 5 years ago this is where I come most frequently to relax and socialize.
We went in thinking this was just a Cigar shop. The young lady was friendly and patient as we're struggled to figure out what we wanted (we're newbies!) Eventually we noticed a doorway towards the back and discovered a full bar and lounge!
After we bought our cigars we went in the bar and ordered a drink. There were various seating arrangements, a few couches set up to engage in conversation amongst friends, theater styled seating with comfy reclining chairs in front of the projection screen and a game table for poker etc.
We chose the game table. There was numerous games available for play, cards, poker chips, checkers, & board games galore. I had a blast drinkin and gaming with the bf!
This spot was totally date night appropriate or great for boys night out. Unfortunately the cocktail was weak so from then on I had cognac straight. my azz was feelin good as I stumbled home to the Springhill Suites on the same lot.
Good selection of cigar supplies... Large walk in humidor which was being worked on, they where adding lighting I think, at first the humidor didnt feel like it was on. They have some quality cigars at average prices, a few a little higher than other places, they where displayed fairly well. Problem was I picked up one and it was hard, maybe fresh supply, tried another different brand and the same. Was disappointed, didn't want to chance it. Reading the reviews they have a lounge area, I asked the cashier what if you bring your own cigar do you still have to pay the day fee, luckily for me besides her being eye-candy and having great customer service and knowledgeable, they have a $5 cutting fee, figured reasonable I guess.
Paid my cutting fee and tried their house beer, it was on the lighter side of beers... like coots light... The Lounge was nicely done, lots of T.Vs, leather couches, leather chairs, pool tables, chess, full bar...I even took some ideas home with me. Overall I'd come back if I'm in this part of town with friends, but I wouldn't make a special trip...
After enjoying dinner it was back home via 15 S. I noticed this establishment out from my window while driving. The neon blue sign also caught the attention of my passenger. We both looked at one another while the knowing glance shared between two people before a dirty little pleasure is enjoyed. I exited off the next ramp and back tracked to the lounge.
There was plenty of parking even though it shared a parking lot with a hotel. We pulled right up and were greeted by a beautiful young woman. The shop was a good size and looked to have one of the best selections I have seen in a while.
While temporarily hypnotized the young woman started to explain that the lounge was a private area. We had to be a member to sit and smoke/drink there. Since we were merrily passing through we would have to obtain a guest pass which was $10.00 per person and this included a free beer.
Seriously? I don't think so, back to the drive home to sweet home San Diego!
*The three star rating system was distributed in no particular order:
1.) The cigar selection
2.) The concept of a cigar lounge when in the area. Still wouldn't pay to smoke it here.
3.) The beautiful woman. Hey we girls can appreciate one another!