In the heart of Isabela, Puerto Rico, lies a unique establishment igniting a revolutionary shift in the traditionally male-dominated cigar industry. JJ Cigar Lounge, owned by Jessica Velazquez, stands as a beacon of change and inclusivity, challenging long-standing perceptions and welcoming a diverse clientele into the world of cigars. This lounge is not just another place to enjoy a stogie; it’s a groundbreaking destination where the essence of cigars meets the spirit of empowerment and community.
The cigar aficionado relishes the rich flavors and intricate nuances of each puff, while the cigar sommelier provides expertise on pairing these complexities with life’s moments. Yet, beyond these roles lies an untold narrative—one where women like Jessica Velazquez are pioneering spaces that celebrate both passion and knowledge for cigars among all enthusiasts regardless of gender. At JJ Cigar Lounge, every visitor embarks on a sensory journey through the world of premium cigars in an environment that feels both inviting and innovative.
Jessica’s vision was clear from the outset: to create a space where everyone—men and women alike—could explore their love for cigars without prejudice or intimidation. She recognized that while cigars might historically be seen as a man’s pleasure, there was no reason this tradition couldn’t evolve to become more inclusive. Her commitment to this idea is encapsulated in her mantra for JJ Cigar Lounge: “A Woman-Owned Business – A Cigar Destination that is a welcoming Place for Women.” As a passionate entrepreneur, JJ Cigar’s owner, Jessica, is preparing to launch a new soap line, with an official announcement coming soon.
Photo Courtesy: Jessica Velazquez
Walking into JJ Cigar Lounge offers an immediate sense of belonging. The ambiance blends traditional elegance with modern comfort, ensuring every guest feels at home, whether they’re seasoned aficionados or curious newcomers. Here, Jessica hosts tastings and workshops, often leading discussions to share her profound knowledge with guests. She demystifies the world of cigars with grace and authority, guiding visitors through selections with stories behind their origins and flavors.
Adjacent to JJ Cigar Lounge are various food trucks offering Bebo’s pizza and La Chancleta de Maiz tacos. The other places sell baked potatoes, pasta, Acai bowls, and tripletas (this is a Puerto Rican sandwich), which indicates how seamlessly Jessica has integrated her business into the fabric of local leisure and lifestyle activities. Patrons can savor their meals before indulging in an after-dinner cigar paired perfectly with a cocktail crafted from local ingredients. This seamless blend of culinary delights and premium smoking experiences underscores Jessica’s innovative approach to creating memorable moments for her clientele.
Jessica’s impact goes beyond just running a successful business; she’s partaking in cultural transformation within Isabela and beyond. By fostering an environment where women feel equally respected and celebrated as connoisseurs or casual enjoyers of cigars, she’s dismantling outdated stereotypes piece by piece. Her efforts resonate deeply within social media circles, too; followers from around the globe engage with @jjcigarlounge on Instagram, where Jessica shares insights into new arrivals, event highlights, and snapshots capturing the lounge’s vibrant community.
Photo Courtesy: Reggie Johnson
Yet what truly makes JJ Cigar Lounge stand out is its ability to marry tradition with progression—a quality reflected in every detail, from its curated selection of cigarro (the original term highlighting cigars’ rich heritage) to hosting events that spotlight female voices in the industry. Jessica Velazquez has established herself as a formidable entrepreneur and an advocate for gender equality within luxury lifestyle spaces.
As conversations around inclusion continue to shape industries worldwide, ventures like JJ Cigar Lounge serve as inspiring examples of how businesses can thrive by embracing diversity and fostering welcoming environments for all enthusiasts. In doing so, they don’t just sell products; they build communities bound by shared passions yet enriched by individual perspectives.
In closing (without explicitly stating it), it becomes evident that JJ Cigar Lounge is more than just a venue—it’s a movement led by Jessica Velazquez toward crafting spaces where enjoyment transcends gender boundaries, proving once again that pleasure knows no gender—only taste.
Photo Courtesy: Reggie Johnson
https://nyweekly.com/business/jj-cigar-lounge-a-weekend-getaway-to-isabela-puerto-rico/
Follow JJ Cigar Lounge on the links below for updated events:
- https://www.jjcigarlounge.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/jjcigarlounge/
- https://www.facebook.com/JJCigarLounge
Published By: Aize Perez
