Much like fine wine, craft beer and gourmet food, a connoisseur community has long existed around cigars. Aficionados would gather in exclusive bars to socialize and savor the unique qualities of different cigar varieties.
That was the old days. The era of cigars as a members-only men’s club pastime is fading, and modern lounges like Legends of Fire at Northern Quest Resort & Casino are offering people the opportunity to rediscover this ancient art of rolling tobacco.
“Legends of Fire is the only cigar bar on the eastern side of Washington state, making it one of the only places in our region for you to actually come in, buy a cigar, sit down, get it cut and lit, and then just enjoy it,” says Karri Bradshaw, the general manager of Masselow’s Steakhouse and Legends of Fire.
The staff at Legends of Fire are attentive to what Bradshaw calls the “intimidation factor.” As a result, they work hard to create a welcoming, approachable atmosphere for everyone from cigar enthusiasts to the newly curious. That’s one reason why Legends of Fire has become such a popular destination for groups of golfers and bachelorette parties alike.
“This is a really cool environment to come in, have a drink and eat dinner, or just have some appetizers to start your evening before you go down to the casino,” says Bradshaw. “It’s a fun, open-door mentality.”
She means that literally. Legends of Fire keeps more than 70 different brands of cigars in a walk-in humidor, so you can easily browse the full range of cigars up close. Some of them will be classic blends of premium domestic or international tobaccos. Others will feature intriguing flavor profiles like rum, vanilla, honey or mint chocolate.
If you’re not sure what to choose, don’t worry. The staff know their stuff, and they’ll guide you through every step. They can even recommend cigar pairings that will complement a craft cocktail or one of their top-shelf whiskies or tequilas.
Whether your cigar caps off an exquisite meal like the huckleberry-crusted salmon or accompanies an order of steak bites and a glass of whiskey, it’s all part of the relaxed, elegant and fun experience that Legends of Fire provides.
Pro Terms
• AROMA
The scent of a lit cigar, also called a bouquet
• BAND
The ring of paper around the top of a cigar with branding and other details
• CAPA
The wrapper leaf on a cigar
• COMPLEXITY
A quality of cigars that have nuanced or transitional aromas
• SMOKING TIME
The length of time that a cigar will burn
• FINISH The final tasting notes in a cigar or the flavor it leaves on the palette
