After 24 years serving South Florida’s premium cigar community, Sabor Havana Cigars is not standing still.
The longtime Doral retailer has officially unveiled a newly expanded, professionally designed cocktail lounge at its Westend Shopping Center location — a move that reflects a growing trend among forward-thinking retailers: integrating hospitality and retail under one cohesive, elevated experience.
The invitation-only grand opening on February 5 drew significant industry attendance, including well-known manufacturers and brand principals, underscoring Sabor Havana’s longstanding relationships and influence within the South Florida market.
But beyond the celebration, this expansion offers something more meaningful for PCA retail members: a case study in long-term evolution.
Retail + Hospitality = Destination
The new lounge introduces a full-service cocktail program featuring premium spirits within a refined, thoughtfully designed environment. Curated seating, elevated finishes, and intentional layout transform what was once a traditional retail shop into a hospitality-driven destination.
For retailers watching shifts in consumer expectations, this matters.
Today’s cigar consumers increasingly seek an experience — not just a transaction. A welcoming lounge environment, curated beverage program, and intentional ambiance encourage longer stays, repeat visits, and deeper community engagement. Sabor Havana’s approach aligns with a broader industry movement toward experiential retail, where atmosphere, service, and programming become differentiators.
Air Quality as an Investment in Comfort
One of the most notable features of the new lounge is its state-of-the-art air system, which exchanges the indoor air every 10 minutes using 100% fresh air rather than recycled air.
For retailers operating in markets where indoor smoking laws allow lounge environments, investments in ventilation and air management can meaningfully impact guest comfort — especially among consumers who are newer to lounge culture or visiting with non-smoking guests.
As more lounges seek to elevate their hospitality standards, environmental comfort becomes just as important as furniture or décor.
Community Recognition and Longevity
The expansion was formally recognized by the City of Doral with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mayor Christi Fraga and Councilwoman Nicole Reinoso. The city presented Sabor Havana with both the key to the city and a Small Business Legacy Award, recognizing more than two decades of community service and economic presence.
For PCA members, this highlights an often-overlooked reality: strong civic relationships matter. Retailers who integrate into their communities and local governments are better positioned for longevity and stability.
A Model for Sustainable Growth
Founded by partners Jorge Luis Valdes and Aquiles Legra, Sabor Havana has built its reputation on a curated portfolio of leading and boutique cigar brands, consistent service, and authentic engagement with cigar culture.
Rather than pivoting away from its identity, the new cocktail lounge expands upon it — reinforcing that growth does not require abandoning core values.
After 24 years, Sabor Havana’s evolution serves as a reminder that brick-and-mortar success is not static. It is intentional.
For PCA retail members, the lesson is clear: community, hospitality, and strategic reinvestment can transform a respected cigar shop into a lasting destination.