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Excalibur Cigar & Wine Lounge
Categories: Shopping Tobacco Shops Nightlife Bars Wine Bars Tobacco Shops, Wine Bars [Edit]
8199 Clairemont Mesa BlvdSte Q
San Diego, CA 92111
Neighbourhood: Kearny Mesa
(858) 277-1148
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sat 10 am - 10 pm
Thu-Fri 10 am - 11 pm
Sun 10 am - 6 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sun, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Smoking:
- Yes
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Alissa J. said: "My husband and I quit smoking the beginning of this week and Vapure... all I can say is thank you so much. Their products are on point, their employees were very informative and helpful. And not to mention lots and lots of different…" read more »
37 reviews for Excalibur Cigar & Wine Lounge
Review Highlights
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"...like you belong, great Beers on tap over 12 micro brews to..." In 4 reviews -
"Comfy leather sofas, the right place to do business." In 3 reviews -
"The owner, Tom, can always recommend a great, new cigar." In 8 reviews
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37 reviews in English
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Review from George R.
San Diego, CA
11/28/2011
Here's what I like most about Excalibur Cigar and Wine Lounge: It's comfortable and relaxed- inauspicious yet with a quiet dignity. They have a respectable assortment of quality beers and wines including some nice ports. The humidor is extensive and the company is good. Sit at the bar or in those comfy leather chairs.
Steve is a fantastic bartender, handy with a joke or conversation and Tom is always attentive and caring when it comes to his customers. Here's a special shout out to them for supporting the San Diego Police Officers Association. -
Review from Anura R.
San Diego, CA
4/14/2012
Excalibur has a fantastic selection of all kinds of cigars, with a walk in humidor, a bar and lounge Excalibur is my favorite place for cigars in all of San Diego.
The older gentleman who works the register is knowledgeable and friendly, and everyone there is more than willing to suggest cigars they think you might enjoy, or just hang around and chat.
The only thing that kept this from being a five star review was that it was hard to find the cigars I wanted in the humidor room, even with the help of the salespeople it took about fifteen-twenty minutes.
If you are a fan of cigars then you MUST stop by Excalibur -
Review from Erica K.
2/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Excalibur would be my go to club if I lived in the San Diego area. While the location isn't the greatest, they offer both an indoor and outdoor smoking area.
The outdoor area is to the side of the entrance and seats about 15 people comfortably. Because of the location however, don't bank on any views, but it is nice to have the option, especially in the summer time.
Moving on to the inside, when you walk into the lounge you're greeted by a table with all of the clubs sale items (cigars & accessories). This may not sound like a big deal, but imagine if all stores displayed their clearance aisles in the front as opposed to nestling it in the back! To the left is San Diego's largest walk in humidor, and not by my own admission either. If I had to guess, I'd say its about 800 sq ft. The selection is unbelievable! They have an impressive number of limited edition, premium, everyday, and boutique cigars. Though I appreciate choice, I honestly found that it lead to indecisiveness! I spent 40 minutes, $400 dollars, and didn't even cover the entire humidor!
On to the actual lounge, the decor is nice. Comfy leather couches and chairs, albeit a bit modern but nice nevertheless, a number of large flat screens, and a beautiful bar. Its not a full bar but they do have an extensive selection of beer and wines. They didn't however, have Prosecco or Champagne during my visit, so I wasn't a fan of that.
While I was there I had a pretty good conversation with Steve who I believe is the general manager. Great guy... really nice person to chop it up with. Though I haven't actually attended any, it sounds as though they throw a lot of really spectacular events! Their website is also very informative too, so its a great place to go if you want to stay informed. -
Review from Robert N.
San Diego, CA
2/26/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place is just fantastic. From the everyday regulars to the novice first timers, Steve and company has something for you. They have an excellent wine selection as well as plenty of beer on tap as well as bottled imports.
I have been here 5 times now, and from packed house to only 4-5 people, the atmosphere is totally comfortable and laid back. Even with a room full of lit cigars the bar never really has that "Smoke Filled Room" feeling. It is a very nice place to stop by after work to wind down with a nice cigar and a alcoholic beverage. I highly recommend this place. -
Review from chris r.
San Diego, CA
5/15/2012
A must go if you like cigars, beer, and great company. Steve,the bartender is the best conversation in town and always makes for a Great time. The lounge is as comfortable as can be with leather seats and the largest humidor I've seen anywhere in San Diego. The girls that work there are a beautiful and lady like as you will find anywhere. I've never had better service in any lounge anywhere and I am well traveled.
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Review from Adam F.
San Diego, CA
3/22/2012
One Serious Man Cave....If you like an atmosphere that screams cigar lounge, this is the place. Great customer service, the largest humidor I've seen in San Diego, an entire wall devoted to beer and wine, FREE Wi-Fi and Beautiful and Friendly women that keep your glass full.
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Review from Cole C.
9/26/2011
Wide selection of cigars, wines, and beers on tap, all tucked into a small, comfortable lounge in a dumpy Kearny Mesa strip mall. There's a reason this place has a five star average and it definitely ISN'T the location.
Every man wishes he had a room in his house just like this. A relaxing hideaway with leather couches, wooden bar, and flat screen televisions playing college football. It's no wonder everyone but Eddie left their lady at home :)
Thumbs down to the meathead who mistook the lounge for a sportsbar and screamed the same inane outbursts repetitively at the TV during the whole game like an idiot, but thumbs up to just about everything else. The owner seemed to be a pretty cool guy and there's only so much you can do to keep fools out of your bar.
Beer and wine only, which didn't bother me in the slightest, but good to keep in mind if you're in the mood for something stronger.
It baffles me that there aren't more places exactly like this all over. It's humble sophistication, relaxed and laid-back.
LOVE IT. -
Review from Mark S.
Sun City, CA
10/30/2011
First time at Excalibur and I can't say enough great things. I went with my girl and a friend of ours. We were treated great, like we were regulars!
Fantastic selection of cigars, beer and wine. Steve (manager) helped us out in the humidor and was very friendly. We stayed until the place closed and had a great time. I enjoyed two of the house brand cigars, inexpensive and a great smoke. Big overstuffed leather seating to relax and enjoy this place. In a word... "impressive" -
Review from BEN K.
San Diego, CA
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
Tom and Steve run a class act here. This is my spot to chill enjoy a beer and a cigar with friends.
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Review from John D.
San Diego, CA
11/13/2011
If want to smoke a cigar or purchase cigars, this place is it. You can always find a parking spot. They are knowledgeable about preferences and differences of cigars. A really chill humidor lounge area that is like a "man-cave" for those who do not mind cigar smoke. There are cigars from a few dollars to close to a hundred dollars. If you do not like smoking or are against smoking for whatever personal reason....then do not come here. If you want to smoke or buy a cigar....this is the place.
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Review from Shawn F.
San Diego, CA
2/27/2012
Great place to go for a smoke. They have a huge humidor with more selections than I have found at other places in San Diego. The atmosphere is very much geared to guys who want to go out and have a smoke and relax. Nice leather couches, a bar, flat screens with sports and even a suit of armor standing in the corner. Of the places I have been to, this is my favorite.
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Review from Adam S.
San Diego, CA
11/23/2010
I have frequented several cigar bars in San Diego, as well as throughout the country, and this place is by far my favorite.
The cigar humidor is among the best stocked I have ever seen, not just in quantity, but in quality. On top of a wide selection of premium, worldwide brands, the home brand is excellent. The owner, Tom, can always recommend a great, new cigar. Whenever they hold a special event, which is usually on a monthly basis, the deals to be had are hard to rival, with free boxes and the occasional raffle. Usually, there is also a portion of the proceeds that goes to the Wounded Warrior Foundation, or another worthwhile charity.
One thing that makes this smoke shop unique is their beer and wine license. While most establishments do only smokes, you can find a great beer on the tap, bottle, or a glass of tasty wine. I don't know much about wine, but several of the afficionados say the collection is a cut above the best. While they carry the standard brews, like Bud Light, there are several bottles of classy Chimays and Stone Brewing, as well as other microbrews.
Although having great cigars and drinks are important, having good people to smoke with in a great atmosphere is just as vital. At any time, you could walk into this shop and see a few of the regulars, who are more than willing to have a good conversation with anyone about whatever the topic is. Tom will make you feel welcome and at home, and the rest of the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, with great service.
Recently, Excalibur expanded and opened up a Member's Only side, which membership can be bought for a few bucks, and include perks like drink deals and your own wall locker humidor. Both sides are kept incredibly clean with comfortable furniture and ashtrays with lighters and cigar accessories spread around so they are always convenient.
To summarize: if you are into cigars and live in San Diego, this is the place to see. If you are into cigars and not from San Diego, this is the place to hang out when you are in town! -
Review from Ace D.
9/13/2009 12 photos
Behold Excalibur! Behold to the cigar!
If you have time and are in the KM area, I highly recommend coming to this cigar and wine lounge. It is conveniently located in the Cheetah's plaza so either mark your way here first or after your smoking hot treats.
We just left Bullpens next door and opted for some fine cigars. While strolling right in to the humidifier room we were greeted with smiles. Obviously their selections are huge, so you might spend a plentiful 10 or minutes before you make up your mind.
For those who don't know nothing about cigars other then Cuba's Cohiba, then you better allow the cigar experts pinpoint you into your decision. I agreed with trying the house blend with the owner comparing it to 2008's finest cigar sold right here.
We were then greeted to a Hillary Swank latina looking hostess. In the back, they have a chilling cigar lounge where you can seat comfortably in their leather chairs while enjoying a fine wine or beer. Wow, I felt like I was in the "Rat Pack" just waiting for Frankie "Blue Eyes" to join us.
Their service is beyond normal. They go beyond the call of duty to help you live large. Soon after we selected our New Castle pints, the owner came to each table to offer a sample of Korean rice liquor. He mentioned the business owner next door dropped off some samples to share with the patrons.
After chilling here for a while and taking about some ole' Vegas stories, we took a sipped the sample while we smoked our fine cigars. Albie smokes gritts daily couldn't get to used to the fact to not inhale and just savor the taste in the mouth. Damn rookie.
Jules was pretty much getting faded from the thick smoke. While I passed off my drink to Albie to kill, we started our plan for tonight's mission: To get chrunked. Well, I let the cigar bring me to soberness. I grabbed Albie's keys to his SUV and took my buddies for a night of fun, fun, fun...and yes with cigars in our mouths!
The fat: You don't to be the godfather to live like a godfather.
The skinny: Wowsers! Is it me or all this skinny chicks haning out work at Cheetah's? Puff puff.....hmmmmmmm. -
Review from Nicole W.
Mountain View, CA
11/3/2009
Excalibur popped my cigar cherry. And oh was it a night to remember!
The gals are super helpful, and made a newbie girl feel comfortable by pointing out some recommendations to ease me into the cigar experience. With an adorable little vanilla cigar in one hand and a pint o' great beer in the other, I settled into a comfy leather chair and surveyed the surroundings. I love the dark lounge in the back, and wish I could stand the heavy smoke, because I would definitely come here for a poker night at their very nice, felted table.
I have to admit, I can only wish that cigars and I had a future together, because Excalibur would be our rendezvous spot. -
Review from benito d.
Los Angeles, CA
7/29/2008
The service here is top notch. I'm not big into cigars but I've been here for after-dinner cigars and drinks with the guys, random dates and even by myself from time to time and every time they help me pick out a cigar that's feels "just right" for me. Oh, the area where the cigars are housed is the biggest walk-in humidor in San Diego...pretty cool.
Walking into the back there's a bunch of oversized leather chairs and couches as well as a bar with seating for 6. They've got 3 big screen HDTV's, good wines by the glass and beers on tap.
One of the only places I know that I can smoke inside that isn't a crappy dive bar. Light it up, watch the game and they'll take care of you over at Excalibur. -
Review from Michael S.
San Diego, CA
8/2/2008
It's a small, obscure cigar shop / lounge located in the same shopping center as the Bullpen and Cheetah's. Admittedly, I'm not really into cigars because of the known side effects ... you know, that whole "you might get cancer" thing. However, you might catch me in this place a few times a year, and I know a good cigar shop when I see one.
They have quite a wide variety of cigars to choose from. It's almost overwhelming. As with most places like this, I'll usually tell the person working there to pick me out something mild for under $10, and they've never let me down.
In the back is the smoking lounge, and they have a small bar and a bunch of leather seats. They also have a huge, projector screen TV on the wall. There's about 4-5 beers on tap and a bunch of wine selections. It's pretty chill but I get easily bored in this type of environment after a little bit. In my experience the crowd was usually 3-4 older fellas puffing away at their cigars and watching some sport event.
Overall it's a decent place. Probably a cigar aficionado would get more out of the experience than I do. -
Review from Rev. Dr. Christopher J. G.
Mountain View, CA
10/20/2008
Really good shoppe that I found on my last trip to San Diego. I walked in and immediately recognised that they had a solid selection and they've got those TVs which were watching some MMA (I think it was the Lesnar fight against Mir) and I asked for a rec and they pointed me to...a Hemmingway Short Story! My fave cigar. I bought it, smoked it which watching the fights and headed out.
The little bar is really nice and I give it a strong recommendation especially if you're from out of town. -
Review from Margaret P.
Steamboat Springs, CO
8/7/2011
WOW, Christopher O. must have been having a bad day? Tom & Excalibur are awesome, our first time but all was great, the service, the conversation, the selection of fine cigars, wine & beer... Life is Good @ Excalibur!!!!!
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Review from matthew m.
Claremont, CA
12/29/2011
Best place to enjoy a nice stick and a nice relaxing atmosphere! Happy New Year see you soon!
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Review from Emmanuel S.
San Diego, CA
3/9/2010
BEST CIGAR BAR IN SAN DIEGO!!!
In keeping my word with the bartender, I am posting this review. The last time i went to this lounge was about a year ago. Back then it was much smaller, no cigar lockers, and the walk in humidor was at a different spot. I came back a year later as I had recently moved closer and decided to check the place out again. My how things have changed!
First off the Walk in Humidor was moved to a more spacious area to the left of the entrance. Everything you could want as far as selection was there. I was specifically looking for some edge lites to take home. While walking through the humidor a boisterous and jovial gentleman came to greet me. It was the same man I met a year ago. "I remember you!" It was Steve! What a pleasant surprise. He helped me with my selection, and recommended one of the house cigars for me. I figured why not spend some time and smoke it in the lounge.
Once I walked in, the place was totally different!! Great atmosphere tinged with the aroma of fine cigars Big screens everywhere, and a wine and beer selection that could satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Steve hasn't changed, and was the same friendly courteous person he was a year ago, cracking jokes left and right. The lady bartender was extremely nice and went out of her way to make sure I was taken care of.
I highly recommend this lounge if you need a place to relax, or pass the time. The staff and the patrons were sincere and accomodating. I look forward to making this my regular hang out spot!!
Shout out to Steve again!!! -
Review from Louie E.
San Diego, CA
7/24/2011
Wow this place is awesome!! Huge cigar collection, good wine and Newcastle on tap. Comfy leather sofas, the right place to do business.
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Review from Traci A.
San Diego, CA
6/8/2011
I wanted to find a cigar for my boyfriend and only had 5 minutes. I left with a cigar which he loved and the guy helping me (I forgot his name!) was so awesome and I was out of there in 4 minutes.
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Review from Peter G.
El Cajon, CA
11/5/2011
Wow nothing but great things to say about this place. From the first step walking in the door your greated with a big smile.the emploies were very nice amd welcoming and made me feel like im at home. Walking into the longe area my jaw dropped the decore of the place made fel like I was at a 5 star resort. From the marble floors to the wood molding this place has it all. I would recomend this place to any cigar lover or anyone who just wants to get away. Huge selection of cigars and draft beer. It was great great great I will be coming here alot more I encourage everyone to stop bye and check it out.
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Review from Alex K.
La Mesa, CA
3/24/2010
An Oasis indeed this place is like Cheers you walk in and everyone knows who you are. Steve & Tom really know how to make you feel like you belong, great Beers on tap over 12 micro brews to choose from not including the huge fridge full of beer.
Now The Hidden Gem on the right hand side of the entrance is the humidor you walk in its like the Bat cave for a cigar smoker you never want to leave, I want to say there is over 200 brands to choose from all types of wrappers and fillers.
Kick Ass Place To kick back, My coworkers and i go there at least 2-3 times a week to get out of the office environment and they make us feel welcome.
Do not just listen to me look a few reviews down and the lady will tell you Excalibur took her cigar Cherry for the first time!
This place rocks great food near by so its a one stop shop! -
Review from David W.
San Diego, CA
11/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Tom, steve and staff are above and.beyond. Best cigar lounge in san diego!
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Review from Les F.
Santee, CA
This place rocks!
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Review from James C.
San Diego, CA
2/11/2011
I have traveled the planet and this is the best place that I have found with the best selection and knowledgeable staff by far! San Diego is lucky to have Excalibur Cigar in its own back yard!
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Review from Mahoney M.
Henderson, NV
5/4/2008
Excalibur Cigar is hidden in a strip mall of off Clairmount Mesa Blvd. On first glance it seems unassuming on the outside but once you are inside it really opens up. They have a good selection of cigars and the staff is very helpful and friendly. After picking my cigar of choice I headed to the back lounge and found my new Friday afternoon meeting spot. There are lots of couches and comfortable chairs to sit in as well as a bar with a good selection of beer and wine and plenty of TVs to watch while enjoying your cigar. The atmosphere was fun and everyone there made me feel like I was a regular even though I wasn't. I highly recommend Excalibur Cigar next time you need to unwind and enjoy a good smoke and a beer.
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Review from Theo B.
8/30/2009
I have not a clue when it comes to cigars. I've seen ads and heard radio spots about this place so my curiosity got the best of me to check this place out. I walked in and right away I have the WTF am I doing look on my face. Luckily this beautiful young woman comes to my aide and helps me out. I wish I asked for her name because she was very helpful with all of my questions.
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Review from Justin C.
San Diego, CA
10/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
Diamond in the rough! Come through!!!!!
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Review from sam v.
San Diego, CA
1/30/2010
Best place to smoke a cigar and drink a beer in San Diego period. The beer selection may not be as GREAT as Hoffers but the cigar selection and indoor smoking way makes up for that. The owner Tom is very helpful and always has a friendly hello. I come here every chance I get and so should you. The place is a strip mall off Clairmont Ave very easy to miss except for the Cheetahs at the corner. (bonus) This is a must stop for any cigar lover. You wont be disappointed.
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Review from Frankie S.
Santee, CA
11/30/2009
I LOVE this place. Very friendly staff. They have a little old bald man that works there that has a story for everything. He's really funny and easy to get alone with. And the girl they have there looks just like Rosero Dawson and is super nice. Its a very relaxing place with huge chairs and even a card table.
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Review from Arturo M.
San Diego, CA
3/6/2010
Excellent service! Everyone is attentive to your needs and will never let your drink go empty. They are constantly cleaning so you never get to see stacks of cigars in ashtrays and never fail to keep the place organized. The place itself sets a great mood and provides the ambiance that allows you to relax and smoke the night away. Great customer service.
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Review from Jerod H.
San Diego, CA
5/29/2008
A few months back I was driving through Kearny Mesa and I saw the sign for Excalibur Cigars. I was never really into cigars but I thought i'd go in and check the place out. I walked in and was greated by Tom Kalasho the owner. He invited me into the lounge out back and helped me pickout a cigar to go with my beer. The level of service I received from Tom and Wes made me feel right at home. Excalibur cigar and wine lounge is top notch in my book with some of the nicest people you will ever come across. They also have an amazing selection of cigars. Stop by and say hi!
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Review from Michael L.
Santee, CA
3/3/2010
Great cigar lounge. The best in San Diego. The owner, Tom, and his staff treat their customers great. Great selection of fine cigars. The beer and wines are a plus.
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Review from B D.
San Diego, CA
3/12/2010
An oasis for cigar connoisseurs and curious indiviudals alike, in the middle of Clairemont. Excalibur Cigar and Wine Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy a cigar, have a drink and pass the time with good people.
I call Excalibur an "oasis" because that's exactly what it is. On Clairemont Mesa Blvd just west of the 163 exit its in the same strip mall as Cheetahs Gentlemen's Club and Bullpen Bar and Grill. Excalibur often time gets overlooked and even if you walk in you can miss out on all that this place has to offer.
Upon entering it seems that Excalibur is merely a smoke shop to serve your tobacco needs. They have a humidor with a wide verity of cigars to the left, a display case of torch lighters to the right, Excalibur apparel in the middle of the floor and a register where normally Steve, a handsome fella will be there to take good care of you. However if you take a second glance there is another door, a door that opens up the granger of this place. Behind that door you'll find plush leather couches, a bar with just every bottle of wine in the world on the shelves, plasmas just about everywhere you look, and an attractive bartender or two. As you walk in the aroma of the smoke takesover which if breath of fresh air for aficionados. There Steve moves from the register and becomes the "host of hosts." He has a story for anything and will also educate you on cigars for any beginners like myself but, don't ask him for change for a dollar..... TRUST ME ;)
So if you're looking for something different than just your regular down the street local dive bar. If you like, love, or want to learn about cigars with good people this is the place for you!!! -
Review from Ted S.
San Diego, CA
11/3/2009
This is what cigar lounges are all about. Great people, comfortable chairs, good drinks, and, oh yeah, GREAT cigars. The Kalibur cigar is one to definitely put on your list. Grab a smoke from the huge selection, plop yourself down in an oversized leather couch, spark up and relax. Whether you're a novice cigar smoker, or a seasoned aficionado, everyone can have a great time here.
