Cigar Aficionado is eighteen years old, give-or take, and it took that long before they allowed the creation of a Cigar Aficionado lounge at a tobacconist! The favoured venue is Cigar Inn's (1016 Second Avenue, NYC 10022 - 212.750.0809 - www.cigarinn.com) new, and second, location in Manhattan. The first, which remains open, is a t 1314 First Avenue, NYC 10021 - 212.717.7403.

On Saturday, 7 February, there was an invitation only reception that was packed to the rafters; or would have been if there were rafters. In any event, the star studded event brought out Rocky Patel, Nestor Miranda, Robbie Levin and his son Sathya, Litto Gomez, all of whom need no further identification.

Cigar Aficionado was ably represented by Editor Gordon Mott and Cigar Insider Senior Editor, Dave Savona.

Cigar Inn has a couple of interesting amenities, including, but not limited to, two barbers, a person to shine your shoes, and an abundant amount of attention to the customer.

In addition to all the best cigars and cigar accessories, Bill and Gus have always stocked Rebecca Moss pens and pencils; Geo. Trumper shave creams and colognes, from London; canes and walking sticks and even ties. More than just a 'tobacconist', Cigar Inn is something of an eclectic men's 'outfitter.

It was a great event, in a beautiful new shop, in spite of the enormous turnout.