A cigar lounge where you can’t smoke inside the lounge. Sounds like an oxymoron. But to the owners of Tap That Ash, it makes complete sense.
“After much thought and heartfelt discussion, we have decided to transition from a smoking bar to a non-smoking environment,” owners Diane and Jonathan Resnick said. “This decision wasn’t made lightly, but we believe it’s a vital step toward creating a more inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.”
Usually, a bar making a policy change wouldn’t attract much attention. But this small business decision has created a big discussion.
“I saw they are going smoke-free. I thought smoking was kind of the point there,” Kevin Knorr posted in one of the social media discussions.
Quinton Welsh applauded the move as a local business keeping up with changing tastes.
“A well-known cigar lounge made the bold decision to prohibit indoor smoking and instead focus on enhancing its liquor selection. While some may view these shifts as drastic, they reflect the necessity of evolving with the world rather than being left behind.”
Diane Resnick said that they spoke with many if not most of their regulars who come in to smoke and they were fine with the change.
At least one person is unlikely to return, posting, “Sorry to say [smoking] was the only reason I frequented your establishment.”
“It’s Tap That Ash... outside,” Resnick said while laughing, and noted that many people already refer to the bar simply as Tap.
Some are asking if they’ll be changing the name, but the Resnicks say their place will keep the same name, despite speculation in online comments. Tap is one of few places around where people could smoke inside. Even places that could allow smoking often relegate smokers to outdoor patios.
Tap That Ash, located right next to Hunters Nightclub, still sells cigars and is using one of its parking spaces as expanded outdoor seating. Vaping inside is still allowed.
