Macon, Georgia, is known for its rich musical heritage, particularly Soul Music and Southern Rock, as well as its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It’s also famous as the Cherry Blossom “Capitol of the World due to its extensive display of Yoshino cherry trees…ok, area blah blah blah covered. My good friend (aka, my brother), Mr. Oliver Price, mentioned that he’d gone to a really nice cigar spot in Macon (que my skeptical mind), and that we should check it out. Living in the Metro Atlanta area can give you a false sense of “we’re the shit,” and the rest of Georgia is somehow less connected (calling bullshit on that one), soooo not true, come to find out. We took the ride to downtown Macon and reached our destination in under an hour from Locust Grove (Oliver’s house). Churchills on Cherry…the upstairs cigar bar and lounge that you didn’t see coming.
This spot is pretty damn amazing. From street level, you climb the stairs to the main floor, still not really knowing what to expect until you cross the threshold at the top, where you’re greeted with a view of the humidor, leather chairs, and sumptuous hardwood flooring. You turn to the left and get visually assaulted by a uniquely gorgeous and expansive, well-stocked bar that rises up to what seems to be 20-plus-foot ceilings. The large televisions and smart lighting, along with intricate art pieces, complement each other in a way that makes complete sense. The staff greeted us with smiles, southern professionalism, and a warm tone. It was really refreshing if you know what I mean.
I certainly expected drinks, but wasn’t really sure about having any food…atleast not anything to special, again, bad assumption on my part. We ordered. two dishes, a Surf and Turf special along with Shrimp and Grits (that’s how we do it down here), our drinks came first, a couple of “Old Fashions” that went down real easy on a hot summer Georgia night. Then the food arrived, pipping-hot and visually pleasing. The portion size was generous and I’m happy to report…the food was on-point, really good.
It was a Friday night and the owner had live music scheduled, jazz tunes were belted out by a saxophone player accompanied by a pianist. If you’re anything like me, this night would’ve checked all the boxes for most aficionados. Did I mention how big this place is ? Levels, spots, corner seating hang-outs, couches and fireplaces, cool-ass sections for private party space that’s been tastefully pimped-out. Again, boxes checked.
And just when you think there’s nothing else to talk about…there’s more shit to talk about. One of my favorite and relaxing things to do is, smoking my cigars outdoors. Churchills on Cherry has an awesome outdoor seating area. Tables, couches, fireplace and television on a large deck over looking private parking. String-lighting and friendly people, it was all there. In Macon GA. I’m serious.
So I guess a question might be, who put this thing together, who’s the mad genius with such a diabolical plan, what are his super powers and will he ever use them for evil purposes…ok,ok, I’m sorry. His name is Bruce, and he opened Churchills on Cherry about two and a half years ago. He run’s it with his son Nick, and a really cool staff. Bruce has a moving and storage company (Ciceros) with many of his customers being US military. He’s traveled the country, and during that time he visited lot’s of different cigar-bars, taking mental notes, collecting ideas, talking to owners, in his mind, building Churchills on Cherry. Taking the best of what he saw and learned, what worked and what didn’t, food and beverage, comfort, ventilation, etc. This is one of those times when you actually see what happens when vision meets execution, where planning is even handed and you get to witness someone’s master piece unfold. Hanging out with Bruce on the back deck, meeting some of his friends, and watching how his customers showed him reverence and respect, makes it easy to see why this place is working.
I know it’s not ATL…it’s Macon, I know Hartsfield Jackson airport ain’t that close, but the people I met were friendly and sincere, Bruce, and his staff were welcoming and attentive, and “god dammit” I’ going back. There, I said it.
So my friends, thanks for checking out the blog, and get your ass down to Churchills on Cherry.
As always, find your favorite spot, sit back, light up, and stay smoky my brothers and sisters of the leaf.
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