When I had heard that the owner of Helio's Cigar Lounge bought the long running Santa Barbara Cigar & Tobacco, I knew I had to visit it myself. Plus I had never been to Santa Barbara before so it was a two birds, one stone thing. So how does it compare to Riverside and Las Vegas? Let's see. The first thing about Santa Barbara Cigar & Tobacco is the location. It's a stone's throw from downtown Santa Barbara. Incredible location. The inside of the lounge is gorgeous and comfortable. The staff is very knowledgeable and I'm confident they could help both cigar and pipe smokers new and old select a cigar to their liking. The humidor is filled with favorites from Oliva, Tatuaje and Arturo Fuente. If there are the Zino 702s left, I highly recommend those. Prices are on par with what I pay in Riverside. Blame the high CA taxes :( Santa Barbara Cigar & Tobacco has been in business for decades and I imagine that success will continue if this lounge is run like the ones in Riverside and Vegas. This one has the advantage of the best location. I just wish it was closer to me!