My wife, a couple of family members, and I were visiting downtown St. Pete when we came across Black Leaf Cigar & Wine Lounge. We decided to stop in, have a few drinks, relax with some cigars, and enjoy the evening. When we arrived, the place was completely empty. The atmosphere was decent, and the waitress was pleasant, so we settled in. About an hour later, a live band started setting up, and we were excited to stay and enjoy the entertainment. Since the lounge doesn’t serve food, we ordered dinner through Uber Eats while continuing to buy drinks and support the business. Then, around 9:00 PM, a promoter walked over and informed us that if we wanted to remain in the lounge, we’d have to pay a $25 cover charge per person because a featured singer was about to perform. There were four of us, so that meant paying an additional $100 after we’d already been there for roughly an hour and a half spending money. It wasn’t about the $100—it was about the principle. We had already committed to the establishment by purchasing drinks, ordering food to eat there, and spending our evening in the lounge. Had we been told upfront that there would be a cover charge beginning at a certain time, we could have made an informed decision before sitting down. Instead, we felt blindsided after we had already become paying customers. Good customer service is about transparency and making loyal patrons feel appreciated, not surprising them with additional charges after they’ve already invested their time and money. Unfortunately, that experience completely changed our opinion of the establishment. We were genuinely looking for a new cigar lounge to visit regularly, but this experience ensured we won’t be back. I hope the management rethinks how they handle situations like this because it left a very bad impression. Based on our experience, I can’t recommend this place. ***Below is a update to my review due to the Owner responding*** Thank you for your response. Unfortunately, much of what you’ve stated is simply not what happened that evening. Whether the event was hosted by Black Leaf or an outside promoter is irrelevant from a customer’s perspective. We walked into your establishment, ordered your drinks, spent money in your business, and were then told we needed to pay an additional $100 to remain seated. The responsibility for communicating that expectation falls on the venue, regardless of who organized the event. Finally, mentioning that you’re a minority-owned, woman-led business has nothing to do with my review. I judge businesses by how they treat customers, not by who owns them. Likewise, my review wasn’t written to damage your business—it was written to honestly describe my experience so others know what happened to us. I stand by every word of my review because it reflects exactly what my family experienced. If your goal was to resolve the situation, attacking my integrity and presenting an inaccurate version of events wasn’t the way to accomplish that. I genuinely wish your business success, but accountability and transparency are just as important as hospitality.

Dropped in because I love wine and cigars, the perfect match! The spot is gorgeous, well appointed, and relaxing. The wine selection is superb along with the great option for wine by the glass in 3 different pour sizes or bottles. Being from a California AVA (wine region for non wino's) the selection of varied but quality with an option for every palate. The humidor is loaded with a wide variety of cigars at reasonable prices. I had a Maduro with a glass of port and enjoyed the pairing. There is also a bar loaded with some of my favorite spirits which created a conundrum of choosing wine or liquor. Low key with move music playing and times with live music as well. If I find myself in St Petersburg again, this place will be at the top of my list!

Wow, this place is a vibe. First, I want to say how impressed I was by the five star hospitality of the owners and staff- they were warm and inviting the moment we stepped through the door. The wine setup is amazing, and there is also a bar with liquor and beer. Prices were very reasonable, especially for downtown. There was a great live band, and comfortable seating for our group to relax in all evening. Everything was clean- little details like luxury hand scrub and complimentary mouthwash in the bathroom were very nice. And the ventilation was GREAT. By far the best of any cigar bar I’ve been in. We will be back!

Absolute gem of a place. Service was top notch. I came here after visiting Tampa for a work trip and can't wait to get back. We happened to be here on a Thursday where they had live music which was stellar.

This cigar and wine lounge is top notch! The decor is beautiful, the vibe is classy yet relaxed, and the service is excellent. Tonight’s live music was the perfect finishing touch, JordanBSax was ABSOLUTELY amazing and really set the mood. A great spot to unwind, enjoy quality cigars, good wine, and an unforgettable atmosphere. I even had the pleasure of meeting the owner, and what a beautiful, welcoming woman. It was my first time and will CERTAINLY not be the last.