From Lima to the World: Cigar Keep Unites Enthusiasts at Casa García Alvarado

On December 4th, the historic Casa García Alvarado became the stage for an unforgettable evening as members of Cigar Keep gathered to celebrate their shared passion for cigars, culture, and camaraderie. Organized by Cigar Keep Ambassador Alfonso Mendizabal, the event brought together aficionados from Lima and beyond, blending the rich history of the venue with the warmth of the global cigar community.

Tucked into the heart of Miraflores, Lima, Casa García Alvarado stands as more than a home—it is a living narrative of Peru’s history. Built in 1912 for the Castro Iglesias-Thorndike family, this Republican-era house captures the spirit of a city in its golden age. Over time, it has been lovingly preserved by the García Alvarado family, who have infused it with both care and memory. A 1932 remodel elevated the home’s grandeur, drawing inspiration from Lima’s Presidential Palace. Sevillian tiles, a Spanish-style courtyard, and elegant rooms tell a story of artistry and refinement. Yet for all its architectural beauty, what makes this house truly extraordinary are the lives and moments it has held within its walls. Today, Casa García Alvarado is both a private residence and a window into the past. Ana María García Alvarado, one of the current owners, often greets visitors herself, weaving her family’s history into the house tour. Her warmth and storytelling transform what might feel like a museum visit into something deeply personal and immersive.

Guests arrived to find the stunning 1912 Republican-era home illuminated, its Sevillian tiles and Spanish-style courtyard setting a timeless ambiance. Ana María García Alvarado, the home’s gracious host, welcomed attendees with her signature warmth, sharing stories of her family’s history and the house’s legacy.

The evening unfolded beautifully, with the scent of fine cigars mingling with the tranquility of the courtyard. Attendees explored the house, discovering hidden features like the concealed bar, and admired the craftsmanship that reflected both Peruvian and Spanish artistry.

One guest remarked, “It felt like stepping back in time. The house, the cigars, and the stories—it was a perfect combination of culture and tradition.”

Adding an international touch to the event, Cigar Keep Ambassador Kirby Allison joined via Zoom, while sharing insights and experiences with attendees in Lima. His presence highlighted the strength and reach of the Cigar Keep community, connecting aficionados from around the world.

The event offered a blend of sophistication and intimacy, where both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers felt equally at home. Guests exchanged thoughts on their favorite cigars, shared laughs, and savored the rich, lingering flavors of premium smokes under the open sky of Casa García Alvarado’s courtyard.

The evening concluded with unanimous praise from attendees, many of whom expressed their desire to see more events in such a unique setting. For the García Alvarado family, it was an opportunity to share their home and its stories, creating a meaningful connection between the past and the present.

As one guest put it, “It wasn’t just about cigars—it was about belonging to something larger, something rooted in history and shared passion.”

The Cigar Keep gathering at Casa García Alvarado was more than an event; it was a celebration of heritage, tradition, and community, leaving everyone in attendance with memories that will linger as long as the aroma of a fine cigar.