The other day as I was driving down Campbell Ave, I noticed that a new establishment had opened in…read morethe heart of Downtown Roanoke. As I got closer and read the window sign with the store's name, I was able to discover that it was a cigar store and lounge. To be clearer, it was named Bison Head Cigar and Lounge. After being awarded the Yelp NC Triad Squad Yelper of the Year 2024 Award at the Yelpies Award Ceremony last year, an event that honored the highest-performing Yelp Elites, celebrating their contributions and accomplishments throughout the year, I decided that this year, as an All-Star Yelp Elite, I not only wanted to be the first to discover new restaurants and businesses, and bring them to the attention of the public, but also to uncover those found in hidden paths that for one reason or another have not reached the public in its totality. Bison Head Cigar and Lounge, in Downtown Roanoke, Virginia, is a perfect example. Cigars have played a very important role throughout the years. People have enjoyed smoking them after having a good meal and an after dinner drink. We've also had a long-standing tradition of new fathers handing out cigars to celebrate the birth of a child. This custom being symbolic of the father's pride and achievement in becoming a parent.This tradition has Native American origins and evolved over centuries, particularly during times when men were not present during childbirth and would smoke cigars to pass the time while waiting. The custom gained popularity in Colonial America and continued through the 20th century, as fathers waited outside the birthroom (which was often a separate room in the home) and smoked cigars to manage the anxiety and pass the hours. While less common today due to hospital birth and changing social norms, it remains a cherished and endearing gestures for many proud parents. The act is a way to share the happy news and celebrate with friends, family, and colleagues. Many new fathers now choose other ways to celebrate, but giving out cigars is still a thoughtful way to mark this momentous occasion. Over the years, cigar smoking has become integrated into various cultural practices and traditions. From a way to celebrate victories (such as the example mentioned above) to a symbol of power and relaxation for world leaders, to simply an enjoyable experience after having an exquisite meal, to watching a football game on a large screen tv in a relaxing ambiance, such as in cigar lounges found in major cities. Cigar lounges are social spaces designed for people to relax and enjoy cigars, featuring comfortable seating. Private lounges require a membership fee to join. While Public lounges, such in the case of Bison Head Cigar & Lounge, are open to anyone, offering a casual and inclusive environment. When I visited this new business, a very friendly and distinguished gentleman warmly greeted and welcomed me to the establishment. He gave me a tour of the place which consisted of a large size room with an extensive variety of cigars for sale in boxes or individually. And a comfortable lounge in a relaxed environment containing leather furniture and a large screen TV. The classic elegance of its exposed brick walls and hardwood floors makes this cigar lounge a haven for cigar aficionados. Especially in a time when finding a suitable place to enjoyba good cigar is both difficult and expensive. Here, all customers have to do is purchase their cigars there for the privilege of enjoying lounge alone, or in the company of good friends, while having pleasant conversations or viewing a football game on their large screen TV. Even though the current cigar variety is extensive, I would like to suggest the implementation of a special ordering service. This would allow customers to request specific, currently unavailable cigars, which the store could then source for them, incorporating a profit margin. This addition would cater to discerning patrons and enhance customer loyalty.

I'm up first for the first review. I hope this place stays around, it's perfect for someone like me…read morewho enjoys cigars in a spacious place where you can just relax. There's not many places to enjoy a stick in Roanoke, and it is in the perfect location in the Square. I was given a great recommendation, and Andrew was knowledgeable about the cigars. I picked up a new stick. Going to make this my every weekend spot to enjoy a Saturday or Sunday stick. One recommendation for the future...could there be chocolate or hot coffee for purchase to go with the cigars? Some cigars pair well with both.

Stopped in on St Paddy's day and had a great cigar in an excellent lounge with outstanding…read moreconversation with the other patrons. Staff and patrons were friendly, selection was fantastic. Walk in humidor with just about everything you could want.

When in Lynchburg, Virginia the last thing I thought I would find would be a great cigar lounge…read more Well, I was 100% wrong! When visiting family here in town I just really wanted to have a cigar and relax for a little bit. As soon as I walked in the door, I knew I loved this place. The manager Rick welcomed me right away. I went into the spacious humidor, and they had a great selection of all different brands of cigars. I picked out a couple sticks that I knew that I would like and decided to stay there and have one. The prices were very reasonable. I sat down on one of their several comfy leather chairs abd decided to enjoy my Arturo Fuente. The other guys in there were welcoming and eager to join me in conversation. Other than being in Lynchburg spending time with family this was one of the highlights of my trip. Great atmosphere and great conversation. When in town, I'll be back.

Great little coffee shop that also allows smoking. They even have a few cigars you can purchase…read more Highly recommend.

Cigars! You like…read morecigars? Well, I like cigars but you can't just fire them up anymore in your local bar, so you need a place with like minded individuals and that's where William Alexander shines. The place has a "loungey" feel to it, with dim lighting and some deep and cozy couches to kick back on. there are a few tv's in the joint so you can follow the game while enjoying your sticks and they crew working there have a very good working knowledge of what they are selling. Good selection of cigars for all tastes and budgets and you are never rushed along - so sit and anjoy that smoke and make some new friends along the way. They host cigar events from time to time so keep an eye on their Facebook page for those - they are very popular events from what I have seen. Give them a shot! Parking in the rear

The absolute best customer service experience in Roanoke! I recently placed an order with Renee…read moreand she was so helpful. I really appreciate the time and effort she went to to ensure that the process was exceptional. I truly feel that they really care about the customer and it shows Robert G.

Great shop. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Got some really good aromatic tobacco's there…read more Will be using there website to order more.

This place is truly amazing! Great setting/lounge! Great selection for all your gentlemen's tobacco…read moreneeds!! The employees are extremely respectful willing to help! A wealth of knowledge.

A relaxed, quiet and comfortable atmosphere with exceptional service. A very good selection of…read morecigars and some estate pipes, both at good prices. I've recently seen Dunhills, Charatans, and good meerschaum pipes there, all priced under $100! Leather chairs to sit in and smoke cigars and pipes. Chess boards if you're so inclined. The place has been business for over 20 years, which is a small town miracle. Very knowledgeable owner and staff.

A very unexpected swanky bar in Floyd,Va. It'll throw you for a loop if you're not ready when you…read morewalk in, we were. Think prohibition. The joint takes you into the prohibition era. The staff play into it very well. The bartender was super cool. The lady at the front door stayed in character (so cool). Helpful hint ... buffalo nickel. Once in, it is a super dark and cozy classy place. Great selection of wine and cocktails. Small selection of beer. Had the very tasty Chef burger. The Mango Habanero cheese curds were tasty. Checkout the upstairs... I'd revisit this place again.

A place to go back in time! They are a prohibition…read moreestablishment theme/vibe. Fun wall decoration and art. Makes you feel like you are on a different timeline. Food was great! We ordered the seared ahi tuna, filets, and ravioli. Everything was delicious and fresh. Id recommend if you are quiet hungry and want to order the ravioli to perhaps order something else to pair with it as it only comes with 4 raviolis. Let's talk drinks. They are seasonal so they had an apple smoked old fashioned which was delicious and a whole experience as they bring it in a container with the smoke in it 10/10 recommend! They have a yummy spicy orange margarita and really good non alcoholic drinks that taste like alcoholic drinks! Service was great! Our server had really good suggestions and was attentive and up front with items that where not available.

What an epic experience! The staff and atmosphere are amazing. I went in to buy pipe tobacco and…read moreended up staying for a cigar. 10/10 recommend.

From the owner: The finest cigar lounge in Lexington and the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. It offers an exquisite…read moreselection of hand-rolled cigars, perfect for enthusiasts and newcomers alike; and a wide range of top-quality brands, from classic favorites to rare finds, all curated to suit every palate. Nestled in the heart of Lexington, it provides a welcoming atmosphere for relaxing and socializing with fellow cigar aficionados. It's the ideal place to enjoy expert advice, exclusive events, and a taste of Southern hospitality. Whether you're seeking a smooth, mild cigar for a leisurely evening or a bold, full-bodied experience: you will find it here. Visit today and indulge in the art of fine cigar smoking!

Awesome place for cigars in Danville! Good selection of sticks as well as accessories. Great and…read morefriendly service and I hope they can expand and continue to service the community.

The place must be closed either that or they just don't like my looks. When you get to the door it…read moresays ring bell for entry. 2 separate instances doorbell rang no answer and no entry. Not coming back again

Cute little coffee shop in an open space that is also a little market but the market does open up…read moremuch later than the coffee shop. Loved that we could bring our dog in to hangout. The only thing was that the individuals taking our order on two different days and different people seemed a little indifferent. We tried the Purple Haze and the Honey Bee Lattes. Purple haze was delicious but the Honey Bee Latte had a lot of cinnamon. We also tried their Chorizo, Sausage and Cheese Burrito with salsa. Great flavor but there was a lot more egg and not enough chorizo. They also have a lot of pastries and baked goods. We did get a chocolate muffin which was very good. Overall I would recommend, it's a cute spot.

This place is in a sort of indoor mall; they put a sign outside because it doesn't look obvious…read morefrom the street where the entrance is. Ordering online left me with a ready breakfast. Unfortunately, a toasted bagel with butter had the butter on the side, and thus by the time I ate my bagel it was cold and didn't butter the way I wanted it to. Their chai was a syrupy but interesting flavor that emphasized spice more than sugar; at least, the first few sips were before I clumsily dropped it. No blame for them on that. Adding a parfait to eat later was a good decision that gave me energy for the day. They had a wide menu, and while I wanted a bit more from my bagel I could certainly find a quick and easy breakfast downtown here whenever I needed it.