I've spent a lot of time at cigar lounges in NYC, LA (where I lived for years), Miami, Vegas, and other major US cities. As a cigar aficionado, I've been to all the top lounges and CCL is comparable to any of them. I moved to San Juan in 2021 and since then, my go to lounge has been Casa de Monte Cristo in Old San Juan. Monte Cristo is great, but I live in the Condado area, so I was excited and hopeful when CCL opened last year. They did not disappoint.
The dimly lit lounge area is beautiful. It consists of comfortable suede sofas and chairs, glass and metal tables, recessed lighting, two big-screen TVs, an area for performers and Karaoke, and a bar stocked with top-shelf liquor. The aesthetic is ultra-contemporary and tasteful. If you have an aversion to smoke-filled rooms, you need not worry. Between the ceiling fans and the ventilation system, smoke dissipates immediately. The humidor is small, but stocked with premium cigars. There's also a separate VIP room for members.
The bilingual waitstaff is led by Alex and Joshua, who's extremely personable and also an amazing mixologist. They offer perhaps the most extensive Old Fashions menu I've seen anywhere, so if you love Old Fashions, you'll be in heaven. Everyone is professional and attentive. While cigars are traditionally a guy thing, there are a surprising number of female patrons and couples. If you're a woman, you'll feel quite welcome at CCL.
Besides the cigars and cocktails, they also have a full kitchen and serve delicious and elevated food. The chef, Angel Gonzalez , was formerly a sous chef at 3-star Micheline restaurants in New York and Chicago. Finally, CCL features live music and Karaoke several nights per week. They bring in world -class performers including Tessy Liddell, whose performances are electrifying.
If you're a local, you should be here at least once a week. If you're visiting Puerto Rico, CCL is a must-stop. You'll have the time of your life! read more