Capital Cigars, Madison

Opened in the midst of the cigar craze, Capital Cigars remains the only cigar shop in downtown Madison to have survived the cigar crash. The business continues because of a solid stream of steady customers and because of their amazing service and selection. For any cigar fans passing through Madison, Wisconsin, this shop is a must. Though the shop seems small at first, it is because the walk-in humidor is huge and takes up a majority of the space. The staff is friendly (especially if you happen in while Byron, one of the co-owners, is working) and knows their cigars as well as their specialty cigarettes. As for cigar selection, they have all the major brands (Fuente, Macanudo, Hoyo De Monterrey, la Flor Dominicana, Montecristo, among others) as well as a selection of smaller boutique cigars. The Humidor is divided by country of origin and is easy to navigate. I highly encourage all visitors to also check out their "bargain cigars", located in the middle of the humidor for great deals on singles and boxes. Finally, a word on ambience: This is a shop for cigar lovers. Besides the stuffed chairs and cable tv, the store attracts a lot of employees from the state capitol and a cadre of loyal regulars who love to sit and chat while smoking their favorite stogies. So, if you like cigar shops with character, selection and a little fun, this place is definately worth the trip to downtown.