A week ago Ashton’s opened at 1522 Walnut Street. Let's just say it ain’t your daddy’s cigar bar. Enforcing a semi–strict business casual dress code, this is the cigar bar of the future. Ashton’s casts aside the mold of a typical saloon–like smoking joint: low ceilings, dark lighting and a shortage of clean air. Instead, you find huge windows, a spacious brick lounge and a world–class air purification system that leaves the room smelling like fresh grass. But architectural appreciation aside, what really draws the eye is the colorful and expansive bar. Ashton’s drink menu is about as thick as a copy of “Ulysses” and maybe more complicated. Non–smokers will find the selection—which has over 200 specialty whiskeys—especially enticing. But the bar is still not the main attraction. The entire back wall, from floor to ceiling, from the windows to the wall, is lined with over 5,000 cigars of roughly 200 brands—including many of Ashton’s own signature cigars. Smoking aficionados, look no further. And for the novices out there, have no fear—the staff is ready to explain the variety of styles and flavors of cigars that can match your personality. They recommended I try a full bodied and spunky cigar. Of course. As for what constitutes the regular clientele and vibe of the place, it’s probably too early to tell. But after rounding out my stay with an olive and cured meat platter, I took a look around the lounge and noticed that twelve of the fifteen men around me were sporting thick mustaches. If you’re in the mood to feel fancy, or if you’re just looking for some late night relaxation with cigars and whiskey, then Ashton’s Cigar Bar is the place to be.
Ashton's Cigar Bar
