After moving to San Diego in April, I searched for a good place to buy and smoke cigars. Though I had visited the city about four or five times a year over the past 21 years, I had only found a few places that sold cigars and had smoking lounges or bars. Over the years, I watched as the state and cities began limiting the places one could smoke, and on my recent visits, I found more and more venues off limits. However, I did recently find one that was close to home, was a very comfortable place with a good humidor, as well as having beer and wine. Cigar Cave in Hillcrest, just off University between 4th and 5th Streets has become my favorite place. Great service, atmosphere, and fascinating decor are part of the attraction. I've attached some photos from my last visit.

Major perks. You can smoke inside. Cigar humidifier. Buy cigars and hookah. Free pool on full size table. Free chess on nice chess boards. Free poker on professional table. Premium beer and wine. Dark atmosphere and aesthetics. Classier type of cliental. Bartenders are friendly and pleasant to look at. Prices are reasonable with quality beer and wine. Cigar cave is my favorite spot in Hillcrest if not San Diego altogether. The atmosphere and aesthetics are unique with a lot of vintage things to look at, old humorous signs, antique art, books, magazines just to name some of it. The bar only sits about 8 but there are leather sofas, high back leather chairs and a nice patio with a fire pit for those who like the fresh air. Music is usually mild acid jazz, lounge music or something natural like that. It is a lounge after all so the music is never to loud to where you need to yell over it. This place caters to a higher class of people. Hillcrest has plenty of loud bars to go to if your desire is to go get get hammered and dance. This is a LOUNGE. Bring a newspaper. You computer ( electric plugs all around the place) , play pool, chess or poker. This place would be a great place to take a date. The aesthetics alone are enough to talk about should your date be bland and boring. Cigar cave is in a walk way hidden somewhat aside buffalo Exchange. You can enter through the back in the alley too between 5th and 4th Ave. Parking can be validated ( I think) right behind the cigar cave off 4th Ave.

Needed a quick turnaround for a work function, Nick was awesome. Very personable and knowledgeable. Got me in and out in a few minutes with another info that made me sound way cooler than I am to my team. Highly recommend! Will be back for the atmosphere and conversation

Amazing vibe. Great setting. Superb service. Raul is a rockstar who makes you feel at home in minutes. My most favorite cigar lounge I've ever stepped into to date! A must stop if you're a connoisseur and in San Diego!

Very chill spot. The owner/bartender was very welcoming. Their cigar option is spectacular. Their cigar cuts are extraordinary. They have a pool table, liquor and beer. A little alleyway from 5th street leads you down a "rabbit hole" and thie beauty pops up outta nowhere. Will definitely be back.

Such a great spot, super chill and vibey. Greta cigar selection. Raul was a superstar, he took care of everyone so well and in a timely manner all by himself. He made the experience.

One of most chill cigar lounge in San Diego between downtown and old Town. Peaceful and chill, with a unique touch of art all over!

Amazing vibe! And the owner is super friendly and cool!

A great and nice place to have drinks, cigars and spend time with your friends. And they have the best bartender ! 🐕 #petfriendly #cigar #pooltable #cheers

The atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing evening with friends. The decor was outstanding and really added to the experience. I loved the incredible cigar selection and the staff was friendly and provided excellent service. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a great cigar lounge experience.

In town for a few days and really felt like having a cigar. A quick search brought me to the Cigar Cave. The owner, Raul, is very welcoming and easy going. Had a nice cigar and picked up a new cigar based on his recommendation. Stop by even if it’s just for a drink..

Raul has a great establishment. Great beer and wine selections and an even better cigar selection. Will definitely come back.

The best place to smoke a cigar in the county. Owner is super helpful and friendly. 10/10 would recommend.

Wonderful selection of cigars. Friendly staff. Amazing atmosphere! Fantastic place to hang and unwind.