Business Spotlight by Kate Sanchez
The Humidor
There’s a new business in town, and it’s unlike anything that Portales has ever seen. The Humidor, a premium cigar shop and lounge, is located within the Chaparral Heating and Air building, along with T&D Embroidery.
Owner Buster Tucker, and manager Pepe Quezada, say that in looking to bring a little “culture” to Portales, they, along with their employees decided to bring the community a place to enjoy, in a welcoming lounge atmosphere. Tucker says he wants it to be a place of comradery, for people to relax and feel like a “light social gathering”. What began as a passion for the owner has now turned into a business, and they are encourage by the opportunities and experiences their new venture will bring the area.
In opening The Humidor, Tucker fills a void in the community for a place to buy a fine Dominican hand-rolled cigar, something customers would otherwise have to either purchase online or drive 100+ miles for. The store will offer premium cigars and accessories that range from $2-$22, which is competitive with any other humidor within a 100-mile radius, as well as online.
They will also be offering memberships with perks, as well as military discounts. Custom cigar orders will be available to be made, while they will carry their own line of “Humidor” cigars as well. Tucker does want customers to know however, that The Humidor is tailored to be a cigar lounge only. They will not be offering vaping or cigarettes, and it’s not a smoke shop. However, they may look at carrying loose pipe-fill tobacco upon enough requests for it.
Tucker and Quezada say they’ve had a lot of interest in their new venture and are excited for the future of it. “We’re just trying to bring some different opportunities to Portales,” Tucker shares.
As of now, their hours are Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm. They will look into weekend hours or extended hours within the month, when they know where their demand from customers will be.
Stop by and see the employees at 416 S. Ave C in Portales and look for the door with “The Humidor” on it. Whether you’re a cigar enthusiast or just want to try it out, you’re sure to leave satisfied!
