Shelly's Back Room
✨ Vibe
A cozy and clubby downtown sanctuary that blends the sophisticated charm of a leather-clad tavern with a relaxed, unpretentious cigar lounge atmosphere.
🍸 Best For
Premium cigar aficionados, post-work whiskey flights, casual business lunches, and catching a game in a mature, comfortable setting.
🔥 Highlights
- An expansive humidor featuring over 130 premium cigar selections kept in pristine condition, perfectly paired with a deeply curated list of rare scotches and bourbons.
- Elevated comfort food that goes beyond standard bar fare, including their famous signature beef sliders and roasted campfire wings.
- A legendary D.C. institution located just steps from the White House, where a diverse crowd of politicians, locals, and tourists gather for great conversation.
ℹ️ Need to Know
- The venue opens early for lunch, providing a more tranquil and refined environment ideal for a midday smoke and a pint.
- For frequent guests and enthusiasts, private humidors are available, and a semi-private room can be reserved for more intimate group events.
📰 In the News
First Person Singular: Bob Materazzi, 63, owner, Shelly’s Back Room, Washington
Shelly’s Back Room is a well-known cigar bar in Washington D.C. owned by Bob Materazzi, who transitioned to the venue after a lengthy career in the hotel industry. The establishment provides a dedicated space for patrons to enjoy cigars in a comfortable setting, emphasizing the art of cigar smoking as a leisurely experience.
Where To Smoke: Shelly’s Back Room, Washington, D.C.
Shelly's Back Room is a cozy, clubby tavern and cigar lounge located just steps from the White House that offers a vast selection of over 130 cigars and a deeply curated spirits list. The venue features a comfortable atmosphere with leather armchairs, private humidors for regulars, and a menu of classic bar fare like wings and burgers. It serves as a rare destination in Washington D.C. where patrons can legally enjoy premium cigars, fine whiskies, and televised sports in a relaxed setting.
Shelly's Back Room, Washington D.C.
Shelly's Back Room is a premier, unpretentious cigar bar in downtown Washington D.C. featuring an extensive selection of premium cigars and high-end spirits. Patrons can enjoy a menu of classic bar fare, such as roasted campfire wings, in a hospitable environment located just blocks from the Treasury building.
Larry Bravman Obituary (06/29/1959 - 11/03/2025) - Washington, DC - The Washington Post
Shelly's Back Room honors the legacy of its proprietor, Larry Bravman, who was a central figure in the Washington, D.C. cigar community until his passing in late 2025. Bravman is remembered for his leadership and for establishing the venue as a premier destination for cigar enthusiasts in the District.
Recent Reviews from Google
Very cool cigar bar in the heart of DC. It was packed at 5:30pm on a Tuesday. Everyone from politicians to vacationers. The staff is attentive and very good at their job. The cigar menu was robust and...
Nice spot to smoke your cigars (which cigars are over priced), sliders were delicious. Service was mediocre, could use a bit more attentiveness but overall decent experience. $30 minimum per seat,...
Nice Cigar Lounge. Great selections. If you are looking for a quick smoke I'd grab the SAN MIGUEL cigar. A smoke and a pint with some signature beef sliders is the perfect combo here. Atmosphere is...
A+ location for a tourist to DC. It is being run properly, the service was solid, the food is more than acceptable bar food. Most importantly, the cigar list was on point, and my group of 6 guys all...
If you enjoy a casual cigar or you are a cigar aficionado, this is the closest to heaven. C'est magnifique. The cigar, scotch and whisky selections are very good, and prices are reasonable for the...
