I visited Lit Cigar Lounge on May 2 to enjoy a live concert featuring the Soundbar Band. As someone who genuinely supports live local artists, I came for the music first. The advertisement listed the entrance fee as $10, but nowhere on the promotion did it mention that after 6 PM the QR code would stop working and the door price would increase to $20. That needs to be clearly stated upfront. A price change at the door without proper notice does not sit well with customers. This was my first time visiting Lit since it was redesigned into a cigar lounge. I remember this location from back when it was home to after-hours spots, so seeing the remodel was impressive. The lounge area, bar setup, seating, lighting, and overall atmosphere have been beautifully upgraded. The space has a clean, grown, upscale feel to it. I am personally not a fan of cigar or cigarette smoke-filled environments, but I am removing that personal bias and focusing on the venue, food, service, and entertainment. The food was a pleasant surprise. The special that evening was stir-fry, with chicken, steak, shrimp, and salmon options. I went with the salmon stir-fry, and it was delicious. The salmon was served over rice with broccoli, peppers, onions, and a flavorful glaze-style sauce that gave the dish a nice mix of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. It looked good and tasted even better. As a side note, while I was eating, I suggested that management write the specials on the board instead of having Chef Stacy B. repeat the options to every customer. Shortly after, the specials were written out, which made much more sense for the flow of service. One serious downside: this location is not ADA accessible. Anyone with difficulty climbing stairs should know this before going. Wheelchairs are not going to have practical access to the second floor, and that limits who can fully enjoy the venue. Now to the highlight of the night. The Soundbar Band was absolutely fabulous. The band is led by a young 26-year-old man who is musically gifted beyond his years. He sings, plays keyboard, entertains, leads the band, and does it all while being blind. This young man is a true prodigy. His musical instincts and command of the stage show flashes of the kind of gift people associate with legends like Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles. The performance also included live karaoke, but not in the basic way people may expect. The band played the music live behind each singer with impressive detail and timing. Watching the young blind bandleader guide the music, manage the transitions, and keep the entire performance moving was amazing. The band played full sets, handled multiple soundtracks, and brought real musicianship to the room. Would I return? Yes. The remodel is beautiful, the food was good, and the entertainment was outstanding. However, my sensitivity to cigar and cigarette smoke would determine how long I could comfortably stay. Lit Cigar Lounge has a lot going for it, but the unexpected price increase and lack of ADA accessibility keep this from being a 5-star experience.
Reviews
Really enjoyed the vibes in this space. Spent a majority of time upstairs at a private event and thought it was a lovely set up with good ambience. Bathroom was clean. Bartenders were sweet! & They carried Bailey's which was delightful. Did my hair smell like cigars? Yes. To be expected.😜 Will I go back? Absolutely. Curious, Is this a Black owned business?
LIT CIGAR LOUNGE is a classy getaway from the everyday cigar bar. This newly renovated, establishment provides excellent customer service with smiles and a welcoming vibe. Spacious, private, freedom to just hang out. You can get a private locker for an excellent price (a must). And oh! They have a "real" Happy Hour. 10 out of 10
I decided to check out this new Cigar Lounge in East Liberty. It was very nice. The decorations were very inviting and the whole space was very chill. The bar was well stocked with good choices of everything. I opted for a Buffalo Trace on the rocks paired with a Mild Cigar. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. As soon as I walked in the manager asked me what type of cigar I liked and guided me personally thru the selection. The price ranges were really good as well. They had affordable ranges of cigars and top tier as well. After talking a bit with the owners farther, I also learned that they do events such as hip hop DJs and Hookah on their top floor. All in all, it was a good vibe. The food looked good as well and I will definitely have to try it next time.
This was the highlight of our draft weekend. I've traveled and been to dozens of cigar shops/lounges, and this was my favorite experience. I was met at the door by an owner and GM, where I was immediately treated like family. They had some incredible smokes (went with the God of Fire), and were offered the VIP members' room to watch Night Two of the draft. Everyone was so kind, engaging, and now I want to move to Pittsburgh.
LIT CIGAR LOUNGE
6525 Hamilton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206





