Premium Cigar Association Honors Top Retailers in 2026 Best of the Leaf Awards

Annual awards recognize excellence in customer service, hospitality, and community engagement among cigar shops, lounges, and bars worldwide.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 11:53am

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A vibrant, abstract silkscreen illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a single iconic cigar product, rendered in a bold, neon color palette with heavy black outlines, capturing the celebratory and innovative spirit of the premium cigar industry's top retail destinations.The 2026 Best of the Leaf Awards celebrate the premium cigar retailers, lounges, and bars that are elevating the customer experience through exceptional service and community engagement.Denver Today

The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) announced the winners of the 2026 Best of the Leaf Awards, honoring the finest premium cigar retailers, lounges, and bars from across the United States and around the world. The awards highlight businesses that set the benchmark for excellence in the premium cigar industry, from curated selections and exceptional customer service to elevated environments for enthusiasts.

Why it matters

The Best of the Leaf Awards are a prestigious industry recognition that celebrates the premium cigar retailers, lounges, and bars that are driving innovation and elevating the customer experience. As the premium cigar market continues to evolve, these awards help identify the businesses that are leading the way and setting new standards for the industry.

The details

The 2026 Best of the Leaf Award winners were announced during the Awards Reception at this year's PCA Trade Show. The awards spanned several categories, including Cigar Shop, Cigar Lounge, and Cigar Bar, with regional and international winners recognized in each. Some of the notable winners included Norwood Royal Cigars in Chicago, Neptune Cigars in Pinecrest, Florida, and The Cabinet Club in Kuwait City.

  • The 2026 Best of the Leaf Awards were announced on April 17, 2026 at The Warehouse in New Orleans.
  • The nomination period for next year's 2027 Best of the Leaf Awards is expected to take place in December 2026.

The players

Premium Cigar Association (PCA)

The trade association representing the premium cigar industry, which organizes the annual Best of the Leaf Awards to recognize excellence in cigar retail and hospitality.

Maria

The Director of Membership at the Premium Cigar Association, who stated that the Best of the Leaf Awards are growing in size and significance for the organization's members.

Norwood Royal Cigars

A premium cigar shop located in Chicago, Illinois that won the Midwest Region Cigar Shop category.

Neptune Cigars

A premium cigar shop located in Pinecrest, Florida that won the South Region Cigar Shop category.

The Cabinet Club

A premium cigar lounge located in Kuwait City, Kuwait that won the International Cigar Lounge category.

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What they’re saying

“Every year, the Best of the Leaf Awards increase in both size and significance to our members. By recognizing leading premium cigar shops, lounges, and bars both nationally and internationally, these awards deliver a definitive message: the future of premium tobacco retail resides with those who excel in customer service, hospitality, and community engagement.”

— Maria, Director of Membership, Premium Cigar Association

What’s next

The nomination period for next year's 2027 Best of the Leaf Awards is expected to take place in December 2026, when current PCA retail members can submit their businesses for consideration.

The takeaway

The 2026 Best of the Leaf Awards highlight the premium cigar retailers, lounges, and bars that are setting new standards for excellence in customer service, hospitality, and community engagement. These awards recognize the businesses that are driving innovation and elevating the overall premium cigar experience for enthusiasts around the world.