A Smoke Out In Rome
6/8/07
Old Havana Cigar Company
327 Broad Street
Rome, GA 30161
706-295-0546
www.oldhavanacigar.com
We just missed the rain, but the steam was still rising from the street when we walked into the Old Havana Cigar Company. A friend of mine, Marc Cole, suggested I investigate the establishment for laid back atmosphere, rare wine, imported lager and a fine selection of cigars. The Cleveland-San Antonio game played on the muted TV, while bluesman El Willie was onstage singing Otis Redding's "Sittin' On the Dock of the Bay".
We each bought a Cohiba Toro--from what they tell me, it's the next best thing to a Cuban. I drank a couple of Newcastle beers. We talked to manager Jay Cook, who provided a backstory to the establishment's history. Formed under another name during 1998, in Cartersville, Georgia, they moved to Rome in 1999. The place was sold in 2003 and became the Old Havana Cigar Company. Steve McDowell serves as company president.
The wooden floor, open-aired atmosphere, TV and bar procure a relaxed setting. El Willie--a native of Jackson, Mississippi, played a nice selection of R & B songs including "Hit The Road Jack", "Get Ready", "Ain't Too Proud To Beg", "Love & Happiness", and "Use Me". El Willie gave me one of his CDs, so look for a review later.
This place showcased a nice selection of pipes, tobaccos, humidors, cigars, lighters--you name it. Located in quaint downtown Rome--not far from the Atlanta Braves A league stadium and Berry College--the Old Havana Cigar Company--and its immediate environs--contains elements of an Old South, North Georgia, town in 2007.
I might buy a pipe and start a new tobacco habit...
James Calemine
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