The History of Famous Cigars
Famous Smoke Shop is a name synonymous with premium cigars, boasting a rich history dating back to 1939. From its humble beginnings on the streets of New York City to its current status as a leading online retailer, the company has consistently provided discerning smokers with a curated selection of cigars, humidors, and accessories.
Early Beginnings and Growth:
In October 1939, David and Rose Zaretsky opened the doors of Famous Smoke Shop in Midtown Manhattan. Initially, the store operated as a cigar and gift shop, catering to a local clientele. However, David's passion for cigars and Rose's astute business acumen proved to be a winning combination. They quickly expanded their offerings, establishing a reputation for quality and personalized service.
Famous Smoke Shop in Midtown Manhattan
A New Generation Takes the Helm:
In 1970, David and Rose's son, Arthur Zaretsky, joined the family business. Recognizing the potential of mail-order marketing, Arthur spearheaded the launch of the company's first catalog in 1974. This strategic move opened doors to a wider customer base, propelling Famous Smoke Shop to national prominence.
Arthur's vision and leadership proved invaluable. He assumed sole ownership in 1984 and continued to build upon the company's legacy. He expanded the online presence, launched "Cigar Advisor" an online blog publication, and opened a retail location along with Leaf Cigar Bar located in Easton, PA.
Adapting to the Times:
Famous Smoke Shop has always embraced innovation while staying true to its core values. It was one of the first cigar retailers to establish a strong online presence, recognizing the shift in consumer behavior. The company's website, launched in 1994, provided customers with a convenient platform to browse and purchase cigars, humidors, and cigar accessories.
Famous Smoke Shop remains at the forefront of the industry, offering a comprehensive selection of cigars from around the world. It also provides educational resources, personalized recommendations, and exceptional customer service.
Looking Forward:
With over 80 years of experience and a dedicated team of cigar aficionados, Famous Smoke Shop continues to thrive. The company is committed to providing customers with an unparalleled selection of premium cigars and smoker's essentials. It also actively promotes the enjoyment of cigars through educational initiatives and community engagement.
In 2026, we rebranded Famous Smoke Shop as Famous Cigars to reiterate our commitment to the cigar community: cigars are our only business.
While the name is different than the one we've used since we began as a small Manhattan candy and cigar shop in 1939, we continue to operate under the same guiding principles that have made us part of your cigar moments for over 80 years: service, selection, and satisfaction. Today, Famous Cigars is still the nation’s largest 100% American family-owned online cigar retailer. No foreign interests or investors, no shareholders, no shadowy financial backers - we answer exclusively to you, our customers. We thank you for helping make us the premier source for millions of cigar enthusiasts worldwide who want to learn about and buy cigars.
