One lone public cigar lounge stands in Manitoba. That could change next month.

A group of entrepreneurs aims to open Sofia Cigars in the east Exchange District on Nov. 5. The team has worked through government regulations over the past year, said co-founder Noel Bernier.

Next up are renovations: 80 Rorie St. still bears awnings with Aveda’s name, despite the beauty school moving in 2023.

“We have an opportunity here in Winnipeg … to create a culinary experience that is cutting edge in the cigar world and a tourist attraction and something positive,” Bernier said.

Cigar lounges are scarce across Canada. Most jurisdictions have blocked the business model by prohibiting smoking in indoor public places. Health advocates denounce such spaces.

Manitoba allows for cigar lounges via an except

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