Cigar Lounges in Kota Kinabalu: A Hidden Haven for Aficionados

Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo, offers more than just beaches and rainforests. The city also boasts a surprising number of excellent cigar lounges.

A Brief Escape to Borneo

In late July, I had the opportunity to visit Kota Kinabalu. Though I only had three days and some obligations, I managed to explore its small but vibrant cigar scene. The city surprised me. From bustling markets and boardwalks to nearby rainforests and beaches, KK offers a rich experience. Even more surprising for a relatively small city—several cigar lounges and cigar-friendly venues await discovery.

Jesselton Cigaro: Where It All Began

Sabah’s First Cigar Lounge

My first stop was Jesselton Cigaro, early on a Saturday morning. Located on the third floor of a shopping mall, this lounge blends convenience with style. Downstairs, a variety of eateries offer pre- or post-smoke bites. Jesselton Cigaro features al-fresco seating, where patrons enjoy fresh sea air and the occasional breeze. But you can also smoke inside. The main lounge offers ten comfortable seats in a spacious setting. A private lounge provides even more space and privacy.

This lounge feels luxurious. The staff welcomed me warmly and allowed me to browse the walk-in humidor. The selection includes Cuban and New World cigars, as well as a house blend from Nicaragua—its origins undisclosed.

Drinks and Hospitality

The drink menu features wines, spirits, coffee and tea. Whether you’re after a dram or a cappuccino, you’ll find something suitable.

Originally launched as a private members’ club in 2021, Jesselton Cigaro is now open to all. I spent hours chatting with Aishah, the manager, whose warm hospitality stood out. I even returned on Monday before my flight—and Aishah generously offered me a ride to the airport.

A Hidden Gem Upstairs

That second visit revealed Jesselton’s best-kept secret. Members can book a room on the sixth floor, which includes a large bar and multiple seating areas. Two private rooms are available—one darker and stylish, the other bright and airy. Perfect for birthdays, casual gatherings or relaxed meetings.

Davidoff Cigar Lounge: Sophistication in White
A New Player Enters

The Davidoff Cigar Lounge opened in 2024 and is a collaboration between Asiaeuro Wines and Bluebell Group. Bluebell operates Davidoff stores across Asia, while Asiaeuro Wines manages a wide portfolio of spirits—and even runs the Cohiba Atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur.

Upon entry, the shop looks more like a wine boutique than a cigar lounge. But tucked inside is a walk-in humidor filled with Cuban cigars, Davidoff, and select other brands.

Intimate and Stylish

With just eight seats, the lounge feels intimate. The white and light brown colour scheme creates a clean, modern vibe. Staff receive official Davidoff training, and it shows in the presentation and service. Their cigar-lighting ritual is signature to Davidoff lounges worldwide. Natural light fills the room, making it ideal for daytime smoking sessions.

J19 Settee: The Newest Lounge in Town

A Hard-to-Find Gem

J19 Settee is the latest addition to KK’s cigar scene. It opened in June 2025 and is still under the radar—so much so that even Google Maps gets it wrong. To find it, head to the Eminent Hotel and walk to Block C. There, on the second floor, lies a sleek, modern lounge with black steel and glass décor. Stylish, yet warm and welcoming.

Surprising Cigar Selection

Inside the humidor, you’ll find standard Cuban cigars alongside unexpected gems like Aladino from Honduras. The lounge includes two main seating areas with leather sofas, a high table, bar stools and a private room. Whether you’re with friends or on business, you’ll find the right space here.

Personal Touch

Like at Jesselton Cigaro, the female manager joined me for a lovely chat. Her hospitality turned what could’ve been a solo visit into a memorable experience.

The Club at Hilton: A Stylish, Cigar-Friendly Bar

A Bar with Cigar Service

While The Club at Hilton Hotel isn’t a cigar lounge by definition, it welcomes smokers throughout its space. They also sell cigars, both Cuban and New World. The venue is stylish. Low seating near the windows that mimics the design found in La Casa del Habano, with décor inspired by tobacco leaf veins.

Drinks, Music, and More

There’s a long bar with a strong selection of spirits. You can smoke anywhere—at the bar, in the main seating area, or in the adjacent large room with 25+ seats. A private room accommodates at least 14 guests. I visited on a Saturday evening. A live band played that night, and to my surprise, the quality was outstanding. Better than many professional acts I’ve seen.

Horizons Sky Bar & Cigar Lounge: The One That Got Away

Closed on Sundays

I planned to visit Horizons Sky Bar & Cigar Lounge, famous for its sunset views and cigar-friendly policy. Unfortunately, I only had Sunday night free—and Horizons closes on Sundays. It’s a shame, as I had high hopes for a perfect sunset paired with a fine cigar. Instead, I returned to J19 Settee, where I enjoyed a pleasant evening nonetheless.

But one thing’s for sure—when I return to Kota Kinabalu, Horizons will be at the top of my list, as well as seeing Aishah at Jesselton Cigaro.