Our sense of smell is a transformative power. One whiff of an old, familiar scent can whisk us away to a different time and place. For many Cuban-Americans, a hint of Carolina Herrera 212 perfume with its bittersweet and spicy aroma reminds them of the abuelas who wore it every day. For others, it's the rich cloud of cigar smoke that immediately brings back their grandfathers' smiling faces. At the Cigar Cellar in Coral Gables, a walk through the door into that robust redolence of dry brown leaves will churn your subconscious into a fury. Boxes upon boxes line the walls, and matching brown leather couches are scattered about, inviting relaxation. You can buy a box of 20 cigars starting around $160 or your choice from individually wrapped ones at an average of $7 each. You can pick any cigar off the wall, grab a domino table, and light up. You can even create some new memories with your grandparents by bringing them along for a puff of hand-rolled tobacco and a game.
Readers' choice: Little Havana Cigar Factory