When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Maison Edwards Tobacconist
Why Maison Edwards Tobacconist is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Maison Edwards Tobacconist, established in 1963, is a unique and welcoming destination in downtown Ann Arbor for tobacco connoisseurs and friends looking to gather in a relaxed, historic atmosphere. Located in the charming Nickels Arcade, the shop maintains a deep-rooted tradition of hand-blended tobaccos and imported cigars, carrying on the legacy started by founders Augusta and James Edwards. The shop’s interior is filled with vintage artwork and memorabilia, offering a glimpse into its rich past while providing a comfortable space with plush seating for patrons to enjoy their purchase. Beyond tobacco, Maison Edwards also offers men’s grooming essentials, including shaving soaps, creams, and colognes, making it an exceptional spot for those interested in classic lifestyle products. The knowledgeable and friendly staff, alongside the owner, ensure each visitor receives personalized recommendations and an inviting experience. Whether you’re seeking unique cigars, rare blends, or a serene place to relax with friends, Maison Edwards delivers an extraordinary blend of quality products and timeless charm that makes it a distinguished meet-up spot in Ann Arbor.
Here's what people think of Maison Edwards Tobacconist
As of recent, Maison Edwards Tobacconist holds a 4.5-star rating based on 76 reviews.
Reviews of Maison Edwards Tobacconist reflect a strong appreciation for its quality products and welcoming atmosphere, resulting in an impressive 4.5-star rating from 76 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the knowledgeable, accommodating staff who help guide customers through the extensive selection of cigars, pipe tobaccos, and men’s grooming products. Many highlight the shop’s dedication to maintaining original blending techniques and its exclusive access to unique tobacco blends not found elsewhere. Positive reviews often mention the store's historic ambiance and comfortable seating, providing a perfect setting to savor their purchases or gather with friends. On the other hand, some reviewers note the shop’s small size may limit variety for certain tobacco aficionados. A few express a desire for a broader cigar selection or more competitive pricing. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with customers valuing the personalized service and authentic experience Maison Edwards offers. This combination of rich heritage, quality merchandise, and community feel positions Maison Edwards Tobacconist as a cherished institution in Ann Arbor’s local scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tim Williams
This is a hidden gem. I drove here after work one day. I work about twenty minutes away and have been looking for a pipe tobacco specific shop for awhile as I always order online. As I spoke to the gentlemen I realized that they’ve been in business for sixty years. Let me tell you, he did everything he could to make me feel like he’d known me for years. Helped me through the whole time to not only save money, but enjoy these blends better than I ever have. I will never order online again! My business from here on out will be here. Thank you and I cannot wait to stop by again.
Mike B
Atmosphere of the shop is great, and the staff and owner are friendly. Their tins of tobacco are WAY overpriced, at $20 over other shops. Their bulk blends are also double the price of other shops, at $10 per ounce; other brick and mortar shops charge $5.50 per ounce. However, I purchased an ounce of their ‘Wolverine’ house blend, which I was told by the owner Chuck, is an all cavendish blend. I don’t know what the flavor profile is supposed to be, because I forgot to ask. This blend has a ‘tin note’ that is amazing. After smoking my first bowl, it is now in my top two favorite blends. I am left with no other choice but to purchase a few more extremely overpriced ounces, the next time I’m in Ann Arbor. I would pick up a couple of tins of other tobacco blends I have been wanting to try, but paying around $40 for a tin that I can get shipped to my door, for around $20, just doesn’t make sense.
Ava
Happened upon this store while exploring Ann Arbor. I don't smoke personally, but something about it was so captivating that I had to walk in. The second I did, I felt transported to another time. It's so beautiful and well-designed, and I loved the use of natural materials throughout the store (no petroleum products in sight!). The owner was so incredibly helpful and kind. He helped me pick out a blend and a pipe as a gift, and I couldn't have had a better experience. If there is one thing to do in Ann Arbor, it's check out this shop.
Paul Theisen
Great place for a post game (noon start) or pregame (330 or later) cigar. Really nice and friendly owner and nice prices! Part of every gameday experience for me before/after going to The Big House.
Dalia Zarour
The spot to visit for some fresh tobacco and shaving needs. This place will take you back in time with it's historic features, antiques, and overall displays. Highly recommend visiting this shop even if you're not into smoking.
How to reach Maison Edwards Tobacconist
None
Website: None
Why Maison Edwards Tobacconist may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Maison Edwards Tobacconist with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Maison Edwards Tobacconist is an excellent choice because it offers a unique, welcoming atmosphere steeped in history and tradition, creating the perfect setting for memorable social moments. The store, located in the charming Nickel’s Arcade of Ann Arbor, exudes an ambiance that blends old-world elegance with the comfort of modern amenities. Since its founding in 1963 by Augusta and James Edwards, this tobacconist has been a community staple, attracting patrons not only for its exceptional tobacco products but also for its rich sense of heritage. The warm, cozy environment, featuring the same historic artwork and paraphernalia from its early days, invites groups to relax and engage in meaningful conversation while enjoying fine cigars and pipes. Additionally, with exclusive tobacco blends and rare imports, guests have the opportunity to share unique tastes and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. Maison Edwards is more than just a shop—it’s a social hub where friends and family can connect over an appreciation of quality and tradition in an intimate, comfortable setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Maison Edwards Tobacconist?
Maison Edwards provides a range of activities that make it an ideal venue for group meetups centered around relaxation and refined enjoyment. Visitors can browse an impressive selection of cigars, including rare and imported varieties from Denmark and Italy, stored in carefully maintained humidors to preserve their quality. The shop also offers a variety of pipes and lighters, catering to aficionados who appreciate the art and ritual of tobacco smoking. What makes visiting with friends special is the opportunity to share and discuss these quality products, exchanging recommendations, exploring different flavors, and even sampling on-site in a relaxed environment. The store features comfortable seating that allows guests to sit back and enjoy their purchases together, fostering camaraderie and conversation. Beyond tobacco, Maison Edwards includes men’s grooming products, adding an extra dimension to the outing, making it not just about smoking but also about lifestyle and personal care. This mix of high-quality products and a leisurely atmosphere creates a multifaceted experience perfect for groups looking for something a bit more sophisticated than the ordinary meetup spot.
How is Maison Edwards Tobacconist perfect for social gatherings and meetups?
Maison Edwards excels as a venue for social gatherings thanks to its thoughtful layout, historic charm, and focus on customer comfort. The shop’s location inside Nickels Arcade places it within a vibrant area that encourages exploration before or after your visit, providing a great start or finish to a day out with friends. Inside, the combination of authentic décor and modern amenities creates an inviting atmosphere where guests can linger without feeling rushed. The comfortable chairs strategically placed for patrons to enjoy cigars and pipes allow for a relaxed, communal setting conducive to long conversations, celebration, or even quiet reflection. Because it specializes in premium and exclusive tobacco products that are not widely available, groups can enjoy discovering something new together, making the experience interactive and memorable. Additionally, Maison Edwards’ long-standing relationships with vendors enable the shop to offer unique blends, fostering a sense of exclusivity and special occasion that’s perfect for marking milestones or simply enjoying a fine day out with loved ones. The attentive service contributes to this experience, ensuring groups feel welcomed and well cared for during their visit.
What should groups expect when visiting Maison Edwards Tobacconist?
When groups visit Maison Edwards Tobacconist, they can expect a personalized and attentive shopping experience blended with a sense of tradition that honors decades of history. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to assist patrons in finding the right tobacco products or gifts suited to individual tastes, which helps make any group feel comfortable regardless of prior knowledge about cigars or pipes. Many regular customers praise the service and the atmosphere, highlighting how it feels more like visiting with friends or family than a typical retail stop. Visitors will find the store’s humidity- and temperature-controlled humidors maintain cigars at optimal freshness, underscoring the shop’s commitment to quality. The presence of historic artworks and original décor provides a unique backdrop that can spark interesting conversations among visitors, enhancing the social aspect of the trip. Groups can also take advantage of the store’s opening hours, which include extended weekday evenings and weekend afternoons, allowing flexibility when planning meetups. Whether newcomers or tobacco connoisseurs, groups will find Maison Edwards Tobacconist accommodating and inspiring.
Why is the history of Maison Edwards important for visitors?
The deep history of Maison Edwards Tobacconist adds an enriching layer to the visit, making it much more than a simple tobacco shop. Established in 1963 by Augusta and James Edwards, the business reflects decades of dedication to traditional tobacco blending and importation, especially of exclusive Italian and Danish products. This long heritage means that visitors are stepping into a place where craftsmanship and passion have been preserved over generations, a legacy maintained by current owner Chuck Ghawi since 1991. The historical environment—evident in original artworks and memorabilia—imbues the space with character and authenticity that elevate the gathering experience beyond ordinary. Understanding this history helps groups appreciate the care behind each product and the community that has embraced the shop for over half a century. The continuity of original blending techniques and vendor relationships means guests are part of an ongoing story of quality and tradition, which adds meaning and distinction to their visit. For those seeking to combine socializing with cultural and historical depth, Maison Edwards is an ideal destination.
What makes the product selection at Maison Edwards unique?
Maison Edwards stands out due to its carefully curated and exclusive selection of tobacco-related products. From cigars housed in traditional humidors maintained at precise humidity and temperature levels to imported tobacco from Denmark and Italy, the shop offers items that many other local retailers do not carry. This exclusivity appeals to groups looking to explore premium products that are uncommon and highly regarded by enthusiasts. Beyond cigars and tobacco, Maison Edwards also stocks a variety of pipes and high-quality lighters, offering choices to suit different preferences and enhancing the overall experience. The availability of men’s grooming products further enriches the product range, introducing additional lifestyle elements to the mix. The longstanding vendor relationships maintained by the current owner enable access to rare blends and limited items, ensuring that visitors can find something truly special to share or gift. This dedication to quality selection deepens the social value of the visit, providing a platform for discovery and appreciation among friends or family.
How accessible and convenient is Maison Edwards Tobacconist for group visits?
Maison Edwards is very accessible, located conveniently at 11 Nickels Arcade in Ann Arbor, an easily reachable spot known for its picturesque shopping environment. The store’s hours, which include openings Monday through Saturday from late morning until early evening and Sundays in the afternoon, provide ample opportunity for groups to schedule meetups that fit various plans. Its setting inside Nickel’s Arcade places it within a vibrant cultural corridor, adding to the convenience for groups who may wish to combine their visit with dining, shopping, or sightseeing nearby. Contact and directions are easy to find, and the staff is reportedly welcoming and accommodating, which helps create a hassle-free experience for guests arriving together. The cozy size of the shop and comfortable seating area facilitate intimate gatherings without overwhelming crowds, allowing groups to focus on quality time and conversations. Overall, Maison Edwards balances accessibility with an exclusive atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those who want a refined yet approachable meetup location.
In what ways does Maison Edwards Tobacconist enhance the social experience for groups?
Maison Edwards Tobacconist enhances the social experience by fostering connection through shared passion and comfort. The environment encourages guests to slow down and savor fine tobacco products in each other’s company, creating moments of relaxed enjoyment that can strengthen friendships and familial bonds. The availability of exclusive cigars and pipes inspires group discussions, tastings, and storytelling, which enrich social interactions and help forge lasting memories. Comfortable seating areas support longer visits and comfortable mingling, turning a simple purchase into a leisure event. The historic charm and curated ambiance spark curiosity and conversation, elevating the social aspect from mere meeting to a meaningful experience rooted in culture and tradition. Furthermore, the attentive customer service ensures that groups feel valued and guided, contributing to a positive atmosphere that invites return visits. For anyone seeking a unique venue with a sense of occasion, Maison Edwards Tobacconist offers an engaging and intimate setting for group gatherings.