According to the Pensacola News Journal, Downtown Pensacola, FL could welcome the opening of a cigar bar at 14 Palafox Place.
David Sharruf, founder and owner of Cigar Factory New Orleans, expects to add another location among his fleet of cigar bars, which already includes two in New Orleans and another in Destin, FL. Sharruf said the new site on Palafox Street will comprise a first-floor area of about 25,000 square feet. It will include a cigar factory and lounge combination, with a game room in the back, an outside patio space and a "hip and industrial" ambiance that makes use of the brick interiors. In addition, the cigar bar will have full liquor service. He projects the renovations to be completed in June, at which point the bar would start operations. The business would then undergo its second phase of construction with work on the building's second floor, which would eventually serve to host private events.
Workers have already started the demolition on the interior space of the former Consumer Credit Counseling Services of West Florida, building to make way for the new cigar bar.
Although he still requires the necessary permits, Sharruf intends to employ multiple cigar makers at the establishment. The Pensacola Architectural Review Board will review approval requests Feb. 16. Among those he anticipates hosting for private events, he said the second floor could offer an ideal space for weddings, bachelor parties or military retirement parties. Having grown up in San Diego, Pensacola's military influence reminded him of his hometown. He said the recent revitalization of downtown attracted him to the city.