While the Occidental Cigar Club was established in 2001, its roots go far back in San Francisco history to the 1860's and The Occidental Hotel. This "Quiet House of Peculiar Excellence" was the first real cocktail lounge in the City. Principal Barman Professor Jerry Thomas plied his trade there and was the originator of the Martini. The first bi-coastal celebrity bartender, he brought civility to the bar scene as well as creativity to mixology. The wood cut etchings found in his book, The Bon Vivant's Companion or How To Mix Drinks adorn our walls, and his spirit is embodied in the drinks we pour today. The Occidental Cigar Club pays homage to that San Francisco institution.

With the change in laws governing employee workplace environments, cigar smoking in bars and restaurants was banned in 1998. This labor code was to protect employees from the dangers of second hand smoke. It did not, however, apply to owners. A group of like-minded individuals approached the City and requested guidance on opening a legal cigar friendly bar. The Occidental Cigar Club was born. And thanks to the support of the City of San Francisco we continue to operate to this day.

Please join us for a rare malt and premium cigar!