Cigar Bar
In Costa Rica a famous piropo goes “Ay mi amor, eres como una pulperia (corner store) - chiquitita pero bien surtida” (small, but got it all). That line is an apt description for the Cigar Bar, one of the cooler spots to dance Latin in San Pancho. Located at 850 Montgomery street in between Downtown and North Beach, Cigar Bar is a small, warmly lit spot with a large outdoor patio for smoking (thus the name). Apparently, cigars are available on site, though this reviewer has not tried them. I have, however, danced there plenty of times, and the place is good fun.
The tiny dance floor gets packed - no room for moves - but it's perfect for holding your partner tight and grooving away. The sound is generally good, if loud, because of the small space. The people who come are enthusiastic to drink, dance and party, and have a good vibe generally. There is also a pool table in the back, and they serve Duvel beer, which is always a treat.
The bands I most enjoy seeing at Cigar Bar are Pellejo Seco – this is a great venue for them – Fito Reinoso (another veteran Cuban who mixes Timba and Son) and Manicato. I have seen Louie Romero’s Mazacote play with a smaller version of the band in Cigar Bar and just kill it. There are a number of other small combos and Latin Jazz groups that play as well, I look forward to seeing them and reviewing them soon.
Check out Cigar Bar’s site for the full schedule – see you there!
