My Biography
Having grown up with a Chef as a father, I developed a deep passion for everything that encompasses the art of the perfect dining experience. As a restaurateur myself, food & beverage can not be complete without focused hospitality, and a true dining experience is never complete without a fine Cuban cigar to finish. In my humble option, cigars bring together individuals in a way nothing else can.
What was the first cigar you ever smoked?
I was 18 years old, and my best friend’s father owned a small cigar shop in the North End of Boston. He offered me a cigar with a label displaying a woman smoking. She was dressed in white sporting a red shawl. It was none other than an LGC. I believe the size was a robusto, however at that point in my life, I wasn’t just yet concerned with names and vitolas. That cigar punched me right square in the face. Having never smoked before, I wasn’t quite used to the nicotine content, however, as much as I may have felt a bit “woozy”, the enjoyment of holding that cigar and the conversation that took place sent me down a rabbit hole that I didn’t know existed. Cigars have been a huge part of my life ever since.
Which is your desert-island cigar?
I will need some time to think on this one, however, I will say that Reynaldo Gonzalez Jimenez custom rolls are high on my list. Sometimes it’s hard to separate the collectibility and prestige of Cuban cigars from the actual smoking experience. Reynaldo’s custom rolls are of course Cuban puros, and the fact that his cigars are always incredibly enjoyable without any branding or label at all says something to me.
What is the worst cigar you’ve ever smoked?
I decline to answer lol
What is your greatest cigar-related memory?
My father and I were at the JJ Fox LCDH in Harrods where I purchased my very first Ligne 2 S.T. DuPont. We were then off to visit the famous Davidoff of London to purchase some fine cigars in their incredible humidor, and of course, with the hopes of meeting Edward and Eddie Sahakian. Though we didn’t have the chance to smoke with those two wonderful gentlemen, we did have the chance to converse with each of them. That in itself was an amazing experience. Dad and I then proceeded to visit the Sahakian lounge at the Bulagari Hotel. There, I had the pleasure of my father’s company on his first trip to London. We enjoyed some of the finest cigars from their wonderful selection, and my brand new Ligne 2 set off on its inaugural journey.
What is your favourite cigar brand?
I would have to say Bolivar. The Belicosos Finos is probably my all time favorite regular production cigar. The Royal and Petit Corona are fantastic smokes as well!
What is your favourite cigar accessory?
My Ligne 2 S.T. DuPont and my Elie Bleu Black Lacquered Flor de Alba double blade cutter.
What is your favourite cigar shop?
-Davidoff of London
-La Casa Del Habano Knokke and Gent
-Twins Smoke Shop Londonderry, NH
What is your favourite lounge?
-Winter Garden @ La Reserve Hotel, Paris-France
-Twins 7-20-4 Lounge, Londonderry-NH
-Edward Sahakian Lounge, London
-The Garden Room @ The Lanesborough, London
-La Casa Del Habano Cancun (I love the custom rolls here and the owners French Bull Dog roams around the shop saying hello to all the guests!)
-Bacchus, Gatineau-Quebec (Unfortunate that you can’t bring your own cigars anymore even if you purchase some of theirs.
What is your favourite method of ignition?
Soft Flame to full light
What is your favourite cut?
Straight