The Owl Shop: A New Haven Landmark

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Experience a classic cigar lounge in New Haven. Fine cigars, premium spirits, live music, and a timeless atmosphere await at The Owl Shop.

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The Owl Shop

The Owl Shop is a historic cigar lounge and bar in downtown New Haven, Connecticut, near Yale University. Established in 1934, it's one of the few places in the state where you can legally enjoy a cigar and a drink indoors, offering a wide selection of cigars, pipe tobaccos, and spirits in a cozy, old-school atmosphere.

A brief summary to The Owl Shop

268 College St, New Haven, Downtown, Connecticut, 06510, US
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Monday 4 pm-1 am
Tuesday 11 am-1 am
Wednesday 11 am-1 am
Thursday 11 am-1 am
Friday 11 am-2 am
Saturday 11 am-2 am
Sunday 12 pm-1 am

Local tips

Arrive early on weekends to secure a good seat, as the venue can get busy with locals and tourists alike.
Explore the walk-in humidor for a wide selection of world-class cigars, and ask the tobacconist for recommendations.
Check the schedule for live music performances, typically featuring jazz and blues.
Consider nearby parking options in advance, as downtown parking can be challenging.

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Getting There

Walking

From the New Haven Green, head east on Chapel Street towards College Street. Turn right onto College Street and continue walking south for a few minutes. The Owl Shop will be on your left at 268 College St. This is a short walk of approximately 5-7 minutes.
Public Transport

From Union Station, catch the CT Transit bus number 233 towards the New Haven Green. From the Green (corner of Church St and Elm St), transfer to another bus or walk east on Chapel Street, turning right onto College Street. The Owl Shop will be on your left at 268 College St. A single bus fare is $1.75.
Parking

If driving, be aware that parking in downtown New Haven can be challenging. Street parking is available (free on Sundays) , but paid parking lots and garages are also nearby. Hourly rates in garages typically range from $2-$4, with daily maximums around $24. Consider garages like the Crown Street Garage or Temple Street Garage.

Discover more about The Owl Shop

The Owl Shop, a New Haven institution since 1934, offers a unique step back in time for cigar and tobacco enthusiasts. Originally opened as a bookstore by Joseph St. John, a Greek immigrant, the shop quickly transitioned to selling tobacco and custom blends. By 1937, a second location opened on College Street, which eventually became the sole location in 1951. Today, The Owl Shop maintains its reputation as one of the best tobacco shops and cigar lounges in the country. It boasts a 400-square-foot walk-in humidor with a wide selection of cigars. The lounge provides a comfortable setting with plush seating, a full bar serving top-shelf liquors, a coffee bar, and a menu of light fare. Live music, especially jazz and blues, is a regular feature, adding to the convivial atmosphere. The Owl Shop is grandfathered in, allowing smoking indoors despite Connecticut's smoking ban. This makes it a haven for cigar aficionados and those seeking a classic lounge experience. Its location in the heart of New Haven, near Yale University and the Shubert Theater, adds to its appeal. The Owl Shop is more than just a place to smoke; it's a community hub where people gather to enjoy fine tobacco, good drinks, and engaging conversation.