Originally opening in 2013 as a place to enjoy cigars and pipes with friends, Smokers Abbey quickly turned into a full-fledged business that became a staple in the Nashville, TN cigar community. Owner Joshua Stump, who also pastors a local church, never anticipated that their concept and model would catch on the way it did and create such a diverse and committed clientele.
Photo: Justin Harris
“My intent was never to compete with other shops in the area, I just wanted a place to relax and hang out with good people,” says Stump. Five years later, Smokers Abbey has become the spot in Middle Tennessee to find a large selection of boutique cigars, handcrafted tobacco pipes, cigar accessories, apparel and regional craft beers by the bottle, can and on tap. “What makes us unique are those small batch cigars that other brick and mortar shops cannot get or won’t take a chance on.”
Affectionately known as “The Abbey” to those that frequent it, the staff has managed to create an atmosphere of community, as there seem to be no strangers in the establishment. With a slogan that boasts to provide “Rest for Your Soul”, they promote the lifestyle of enjoying fine cigars and fellowshipping with like-minded individuals and lovers of the leaf. Providing a little something for everyone, Smokers Abbey is frequented by professionals taking a quick break during their workdays and those that just want to meet up for herfs or cigar gatherings at night. Newcomers and experienced cigar smokers alike are welcomed, as the knowledgeable staff is well equipped to educate and help clients find a special gift, a cigar that suits your immediate need, or a few to take home and enjoy on your patio.
Photo: Justin Harris
Despite looming FDA regulations that are threatening to put insurmountable taxes and stipulations on the cigar industry, business for Smokers Abbey has been on the rise. And while manufacturers have been hesitant to release new cigar blends to the market because of the restrictions, Smokers Abbey crafted and carries their very own house blends called the Saint Francis (Esteban Carreras Cigar Company, Nicaragua Puro) and the Saint Claire (La Aurora Cigars, Dominican Puro). The Saint Francis, who is the Patron Saint of Nature and founder of The Franciscan Order, was the inspiration and impetus for the shop’s owner and management team to create their signature stick.
In 2017, Smokers Abbey took their offerings up one more notch as they began to offer craft beer. From Wiseacre Brewing out of Memphis, Yee Haw Brewing Company of Johnson City, to Good People Brewing Company from Alabama, the Abbey has a constant rotation of taps and bottles to ensure consumers have plenty of beverage options every few weeks.
Photo: Justin Harris
Seeking to provide their clients with whatever their palates crave, be it fine cigars or great local beer, Smokers Abbey has become a one-stop shop in East Nashville and Middle Tennessee for those that enjoy an easy-going, fun vibe. Smokers Abbey is located at 604 Gallatin Avenue, Suite 102, Nashville, TN, and they are open everyday (and late) to partake in a fine cigar and a beverage with you, encouraging you to find that rest for your soul. Smoker’s Abbey has also expanded, opening a new location in Austin, TX.
Smokers Abbey
604 Gallatin Ave, Suite 102, Nashville, TN 37206
T: +1 (615) 678-8458
www.smokersabbey.com
Offers alcoholic beverages: Yes
Offers food: No
Activities: Regular events with Cigar Representatives and Local Breweries
Seating Capacity: 30
Lockers available: yes
Nashville’s premium cigar lounge, offering hand rolled cigars from some of the best boutique companies in the world.
