Gran Havana Cigar Factory

The foundation for Gran Havana San Diego was laid more than twenty years ago when Ahmad Mesdaq opened a coffee shop downtown on Fifth Ave in 1994. One of his customers walked in looking for cafecito. Along with learning how to make Cuban coffee from this man, Mesdaq got an earful about cigars. The electrical engineer turned entrepreneur decided to start manufacturing cigars and his new coffee shop soon turned into a cigar factory. It didn't take long for people to fall in love with Gran Havana cigars. To keep up with demand, at one point, 15 cigar rollers were on the payroll. Soon, it was time to move into a bigger property. But the new location for the cigar factory ultimately fell victim to eminent domain. The setback, however, only made Mesdaq more determined to open a new Gran Havana. He traveled through Europe, Asia and the Middle East to get inspiration to help create an exquisite environment for visitors. From the outside, the Bohemian style of arches reminds one of being in Havana. The 108 year old historic building used to be a gathering spot for cigar makers. These days the decor and design by Bluemotif Architecture beckons you within and compels you to return. The history of making cigars in San Diego dates back to the nineteenth century when A. Sensenbrenner came to town, and became the top maker of quality cigars in California. Mesdaq is keeping the tradition alive by manufacturing his Gran Havana cigars in America. And you don't have to be in San Diego to enjoy Gran Havana cigars. Order them online anytime from anywhere. Gran Havana cigars are individually handcrafted daily. After being aged for at least six months, only the finest cigars are labeled and ready to be sold. The fillers for the cigars come from Nicaragua, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic. The binders are from Nicaragua. The natural wrappers are from Connecticut, while the Maduro wrappers come from San Andreas. As you watch a cigar being hand rolled in front of you, there are plenty of indulgences to tantalize your taste buds: organic coffees from Ethiopia, a large selection of fragrant teas, fresh to order crepes, plus organic gelato and pastries. If you prefer to smoke hookah, you can choose from dozens of flavors. Come share our passion and keep the tradition of cigar making alive in America. Treat yourself to the finest cigar lounge in the Gaslamp, Gran Havana!