When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Norwood Royal Cigars

Why Norwood Royal Cigars is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Norwood Royal Cigars, located in the Norwood Park neighborhood of Chicago, offers a welcoming and well-stocked haven for cigar lovers. This distinguished shop is known for its extensive selection of premium cigars and all the accessories aficionados might need, including humidors, lighters, and ashtrays. Convenience is a highlight, with plenty of parking available in the small strip mall location just off Northwest Highway near Raven Street. Owner Vic Shah creates a warm and peaceful atmosphere that makes every visit memorable, offering expert guidance whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner. While the shop itself isn’t a lounge, it serves as a vital stop for those seeking quality cigars and supplies before heading out to enjoy their smoke. The shop also proudly honors local service members, making it a special sanctuary for Chicago's police and fire personnel to find respite. Overall, Norwood Royal Cigars stands as a fantastic place to meet and connect over a shared love of cigars in a friendly, knowledgeable environment.
Here's what people think of Norwood Royal Cigars
As of recent, Norwood Royal Cigars holds a 4.9-star rating based on 268 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Norwood Royal Cigars for its exceptional customer service and knowledgeable staff, particularly highlighting the owners' friendliness and helpfulness without any pressure when making purchases. Many commend the shop for its impressive cigar selection and the additional care taken in preparing orders, such as providing travel cases for clients planning trips. Positive reviews also emphasize the welcoming and peaceful atmosphere, which, combined with the staff's expertise, makes it an ideal stop for both cigar novices and enthusiasts. Conversely, there are no significant negative reviews reported, with the vast majority ranking the shop five stars and expressing satisfaction with both the product quality and overall experience. This overwhelmingly positive feedback confirms Norwood Royal Cigars as a top-notch retailer in Chicago’s cigar community, offering a reliable and pleasant shopping experience for cigar aficionados and casual buyers alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
blaik carpenter
The selection of cigars will not let you down. Beautiful humidor that is one of the biggest I've been in. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. The prices are definitely fair. i would recommend anyone to stop by!!
Kevin Huang
The staff was super friendly and they allowed me to check out everything. I feel like I could live here. But most importantly they carried some of the rarest items that I couldn't find anywhere else. Padron Corticos Maduro exists here! I'll definitely be back here again!
fabian roman
Had a great experience at Royal Cigars! The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming — perfect for unwinding. A big shoutout to Mita, who went above and beyond to help me find the right cigar. She was knowledgeable, patient, and made sure I felt right at home. Definitely coming back!
Joseph Stark
Great store! Awesome staff, they were super helpful. Huge humidor, and an amazing selection! My new go to place for my cigar needs!
Michael Frigo
You should visit this spot if you want an incredible experience. Humidor is so well organized and full of variety. Owner was very welcoming, this is the best spot I’ve ever visited for a cigar purchase.
How to reach Norwood Royal Cigars
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Website: None

Why Norwood Royal Cigars may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Norwood Royal Cigars with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Norwood Royal Cigars is an exceptional way to enjoy a relaxed, convivial atmosphere centered around a shared passion for premium cigars. This business stands out with its remarkable 4.9-star rating from 268 reviews, signaling widespread satisfaction and a welcoming environment. The moment you walk into Norwood Royal Cigars, you experience a unique vibe — a spacious, meticulously maintained store featuring one of the largest walk-in humidors you’ll find, spanning 1,800 square feet and housing an impressive assortment of cigars ranging from top brands to boutique selections. The social ambiance here is unmatched, offering a common ground for both seasoned aficionados and newcomers to bond over quality tobacco products. Moreover, Vic, the owner, is known for his approachable and helpful nature, always ready to assist customers without any pressure, which fosters a sense of community and comfort. Whether you want to find that perfect cigar gift or simply explore new flavors with your friends, Norwood Royal Cigars provides a welcoming place to connect, relax, and celebrate camaraderie through the art of cigar smoking.
What activities are available at Norwood Royal Cigars that make it ideal for group meetups?
While Norwood Royal Cigars is primarily a retail shop, the activities you can enjoy here make it an excellent venue for social gatherings with friends or family. The centerpiece is the massive walk-in humidor, an awe-inspiring space that invites exploration and discussion. Here, groups can take their time discovering a wide selection of cigars, from internationally renowned brands to rare boutique blends, allowing everyone’s tastes to be catered for. This creates a natural conversational opening where friends can share preferences and recommendations. Another informal activity is consulting with Vic or the knowledgeable staff, who provide personalized guidance tailored to each individual's experience and flavor profile, turning the visit into an educational and engaging experience. Norwood Royal Cigars doesn’t have food or alcohol on-site, but its proximity to nearby bars and taverns where smoking is allowed means you can easily continue your meeting in an environment where cigars are welcomed. This makes the business a perfect starting point for a cigar-themed outing or a prelude to an extended social evening around Chicago’s Norwood Park neighborhood. The atmosphere encourages a leisurely pace—browse, learn, chat, and equip yourself for a memorable smoke session ahead.
Why is Norwood Royal Cigars perfect for hosting a group meetup?
Norwood Royal Cigars is notably suited for group meetups because of its spacious layout and the quality of the customer experience it delivers. With ample parking and a large, inviting storefront, it is easy for groups to meet without logistical hassle. Inside, the sheer size and variety within the humidor ensure there is something for everyone, which is critical when hosting a diverse group with varying cigar preferences. The shop’s staff create a pressure-free environment that instantly puts visitors at ease, making it easier to spend quality time together without the awkwardness sometimes found in specialist shops where knowledge gaps can intimidate. Furthermore, the shop maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reinforced by visual tributes to legendary cigar smokers like Winston Churchill and Chicago icons, adding an element of culture and conversation starters beyond cigars themselves. This cultural ambiance enhances the meetup’s experience, giving groups more to discuss while browsing or preparing their selections. Finally, the freedom to purchase many cigars for travel or home use adds to the flexible options for groups, whether gathering for an in-store appointment or gearing up for a backyard or park gathering afterward.
What makes the cigar selection at Norwood Royal Cigars exceptional?
The cigar selection at Norwood Royal Cigars truly sets it apart from other shops in the region and is a prime reason groups might choose to rally here. The humidor is vast—one of the largest in Chicago—with over 1,800 square feet devoted solely to cigars. This means you will find literally hundreds of varieties from across the globe. From well-known names to exclusive boutique brands, the variety spans multiple flavor profiles, strengths, and price ranges, ensuring novices and experts alike can find their ideal stick. The shop prides itself on carrying every brand you might hear about via popular cigar podcasts or live shows, reflecting a commitment to both trendiness and tradition. For groups, this means no one has to compromise their taste; whether your friends prefer bold, full-bodied cigars or mild, aromatic ones, everyone can find something suited to their preferences. Moreover, the shop’s knowledgeable staff, including Vic, help guide selections according to taste and occasion, customizing recommendations that enhance the group’s experience and ensuring that everyone leaves with a cigar they’ll enjoy. The enormous selection encourages relaxed exploration, making it a fun group discovery activity that doubles as entertainment.
How does Vic, the owner, and staff contribute to the Norwood Royal Cigars experience?
One of Norwood Royal Cigars’ most praised attributes is its friendly, knowledgeable staff, led by Vic, the owner. Reviewers consistently highlight Vic’s personalized attention, noting that he is approachable without being pushy, which can be rare in specialty stores. His expertise shines when helping individuals or groups pick out cigars, whether the buyer is a novice or a seasoned smoker. Vic often goes beyond just making recommendations; he offers practical tips, shares cigar knowledge, and is known to provide little extras such as travel cases to protect cigars on trips, enhancing the customer experience. This degree of customer care fosters trust and makes the shop feel like a community gathering spot rather than just a retail location. For groups, this translates into a supportive environment where everyone can ask questions without feeling out of place, allowing the meetup to be both educational and enjoyable. The staff’s welcoming attitude also helps the group feel valued and relaxed, contributing to the overall exceptional 4.9 rating Norwood Royal Cigars enjoys.
Can you smoke cigars on-site or nearby after visiting Norwood Royal Cigars?
Norwood Royal Cigars itself is not a lounge and does not offer cigar smoking on-site, nor does it serve food or alcohol. However, the shop’s location in the Norwood Park neighborhood of Chicago places it near several bars and taverns where cigar smoking is allowed indoors or in designated outdoor areas. This proximity means that groups can conveniently continue their gathering after purchasing cigars at Norwood Royal. Many customers appreciate that they can select their cigars at Norwood Royal and then enjoy them socially just minutes away in established cigar-friendly venues. This flexibility invites planning a more comprehensive outing — start with expert selection at Norwood Royal and move to a nearby lounge or bar for smoking, drinks, and conversation. The neighborhood setting combined with this convenient progression enhances the appeal of meeting here with friends or family who share an interest in cigars.
What additional advantages does Norwood Royal Cigars offer for group meetups?
Beyond selection and staff, Norwood Royal Cigars offers several advantages that make it an ideal meetup spot. The business has generous parking facilities, making it easy for everyone in a group to access the site without stress. The shop’s layout is spacious and uncluttered, facilitating movement and comfortable browsing, even for larger parties. The visual tribute along the humidor’s top rail, featuring Chicago legends and famous cigar smokers, adds a unique cultural element that invites group reflection and appreciation beyond just buying cigars. This element creates conversation starters and photos opportunities, contributing to a memorable outing. Furthermore, for groups looking to create an event or celebration, Vic and his team are accommodating and can assist with special orders or gift packages, enhancing the occasion’s significance. These details collectively build an atmosphere that supports socializing, discovery, and enjoyment, making Norwood Royal Cigars more than just a store — it’s a destination for those who appreciate cigars and companionship.
In summary, Norwood Royal Cigars is a premier location that offers a blend of an exceptional cigar selection, expert and friendly service, and an environment tailored to group enjoyment. The spacious, well-designed humidor invites extended exploration and conversation, while the knowledgeable staff ensures everyone feels comfortable and informed. Its location allows for convenient post-visit smoking gatherings, and its unique atmosphere celebrates the culture surrounding cigars and camaraderie, making it an outstanding choice for hosting meetups with friends or family.