By Susan Ellis  – Staff Reporter, Memphis Business Journal

Aug 13, 2019, 7:56am EDT

A new cigar bar, Cigarden, is set to open at 2493 Broad Ave., at the end of September. Tamela Hilson, who owns the spot with her husband, Robert, plans to offer a preview of the bar during the Southern Heritage Classic Sept. 14

So, why cigars, and why now?

Hilson says the idea just appeals to her. She envisions a woman, a corporate type, sitting in her lounge, the sort of place that once catered mostly to men. But, this woman is confident. She does not feel out of place.

“It’s going to be a great place to network,” Hilson said.

The space features two levels, for a total of 4,000 square feet. A patio adds another 1,000 square feet.

Guests can bring their own cigars, but only for two smokes before they will be required to buy from the bar. Cigarden will offer Rocky Patel, Drew Estate, and Tatiana cigars. There will be finger food, as well, plus a bar with beer, wine, and cocktails.

Hilson envisions a stage upstairs, with comedy, open mic performances, and music. She said she and her husband like to travel, and when they do, they always stop at a cigar bar.

But she envisions her place, her Cigarden, to be different. It won’t be a sports bar with cigars. It will be a place to chill out and lounge.

Hilson said she likes the storied past of a cigar. She likes Tony Soprano.

“That is my show,” she said.