Cigar etiquette isn’t about rules for the sake of rules. It’s about getting the most out of the experience — and not accidentally ruining it for yourself or the people around you.
Whether you’re walking into a cigar lounge for the first time or you’ve been smoking for years and want to sharpen the edges, this is what you need to know.
Before You Light
Choosing your cigar
If you’re new, ask. A good tobacconist will ask you a few questions — do you want something mild or full-bodied, sweet or earthy, a quick smoke or a long one — and point you toward something appropriate. Don’t feel pressure to reach for the most expensive option on the shelf. The best cigar is the one you actually enjoy.
Cutting
A cigar needs to be cut before it can be smoked. The cap — the closed end you put in your mouth — needs a clean cut to open the draw. A straight cut removes about 1/8 inch from the cap. Cut too little and the draw is tight. Cut too much and the wrapper unravels.
Use a proper cutter. The lounge will have one. Don’t use your teeth.
Inspecting the cigar
Before you cut, feel the cigar gently along its length. It should be firm but have a little give — like a ripe avocado. If it’s rock hard or has visible cracks, it may have been stored incorrectly.
Lighting
What to use
Use a butane lighter or a cedar spill. Avoid regular lighters — the petroleum affects the flavor. Matches work but take longer; use a wooden match, not a paper one, and let the sulfur burn off before touching it to the foot.
How to light
Hold the foot (the end you light) above the flame without touching it directly. Rotate the cigar slowly, toasting the foot evenly until the edges begin to glow. Then place the cigar in your mouth and draw while continuing to rotate over the flame. Take your time — an uneven light leads to an uneven burn.
First puffs
The first few draws are about coaxing the cigar to life, not about inhaling deeply. Take slow, gentle puffs. Let the cigar breathe.
While You’re Smoking
Pacing
A cigar isn’t meant to be rushed. One draw every 30-60 seconds is about right. Smoking too fast overheats the cigar and turns the flavor harsh. If the cigar goes out, simply relight it — it happens.
Do not inhale
Cigar smoke is not meant to be inhaled into the lungs. Draw the smoke into your mouth, taste it, and release it. The flavor is in the mouth.
The ash
Let the ash build to about an inch before tapping it off gently. A long, firm ash is actually a sign of quality construction. Don’t flick it nervously every few minutes — that’s a cigarette habit.
Putting it down
Use the ashtray. Never set a lit cigar down on a surface. When you’re done, set the cigar in the ashtray and let it go out naturally — stubbing it out like a cigarette produces an acrid smell that lingers.
In the Lounge
Respect the room
A cigar lounge is a shared space. Be aware of your smoke — don’t blow it directly at other people. Most lounges have ventilation systems, but common courtesy still applies.
Your phone
Keep your voice down on calls. The lounge is a place people come to decompress. You don’t need to disappear — just be aware of the volume.
Buying vs. bringing
Most lounges allow you to smoke cigars purchased elsewhere, but check first — many charge a “cutting fee” for outside cigars or have specific policies. At Karma, the expectation is that you’re here to explore the selection, not just use the space.
Tipping
If a staff member helps you select a cigar, pours your drink, or goes out of their way — tip. The same way you would at a bar.
Cigar Etiquette at Karma
Karma Cigar Bar is a relaxed, welcoming environment — you won’t be judged for asking basic questions. The staff enjoys helping guests find something they’ll genuinely like.
What matters most here is the same thing that matters in any good lounge: be present, be considerate, and take your time. The cigar will take care of the rest.
850 W 81st Ave, Merrillville, Indiana | karmacigar.com
— The Karma Family