Behind the Business: Chasing the Passion with Louis Rodriguez

How a North Philly native built a cigar lounge that’s redefining community and culture.

Editor's note: Behind the Business explores the stories behind the innovators redefining success. This feature showcases bold entrepreneurs who are not just building businesses but making an impact. From their biggest wins to their toughest lessons, we unpack the stories that shape their journeys and inspire others to follow.

Our mission is to celebrate resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit while providing valuable insights for dreamers and doers at every stage of their journey.

Louis Rodriguez, owner of Louliga Cigar Lounge in Philadelphia. Photo: Delano Massey

Born into a Puerto Rican family and raised in the tough neighborhoods of North Philadelphia, Louis Rodriguez’s journey to entrepreneurship was anything but conventional.

His love for cigars began at the age of 11, inspired by his grandfather’s tradition of having a cigar roller visit their home every week. Young Louis took his first puff then—and promptly got sick.

“I was a little kid,” Louis recalled with a laugh. “But it sparked something in me.”

By 16, he was experimenting with cigars, immersing himself in the culture, and learning what made the experience so special. What began as curiosity turned into a lifelong passion.

From Cars to Cigars

Before stepping into the cigar industry, Louis spent 22 years customizing cars, working with celebrities and crafting one-of-a-kind vehicles. But the allure of cigars never faded.

“I used to visit farms, read books, and travel to different countries by myself,” Louis said. “I wanted to learn the actual process of growing tobacco, rolling cigars, and blending them.

Some people just want to smoke. Me? I wanted to master the craft.”

That dedication caught the attention of Robert Caldwell, founder of boutique brand Caldwell Cigar Co., who recognized Louis’s passion and took him under his wing.

“Without him, I wouldn’t be in this industry,” Louis said.

The Leap to Entrepreneurship

Three years ago, as businesses shuttered during the pandemic, Louis saw an opportunity.

Envisioning a prime location above Philadelphia Distilling, he converted a storage area into what has become Louliga Cigar Lounge situated in Fishtown.

Louliga Cigar Lounge in Philadelphia's Fishtown. Photo: Delano Massey

“We opened up during COVID when most people were shutting down,” Louis said. “It felt like the perfect time to open a business.”

The lounge’s inviting atmosphere—complete with exposed brick walls, plush seating, and big-screen TVs—offers a haven for relaxation and connection.

Building a Community

Louliga isn’t just a cigar lounge; it’s a community. Patrons range from truck drivers to college deans, all drawn to the welcoming environment Louis has cultivated.

“When you come here, you feel at home,” Louis said. “It’s all about treating customers like family.”

Social media has also been instrumental in building the lounge’s following. “People trusted that we were giving them a good cigar,” he said.

The Vision for Growth

With his son ready to manage operations and his daughter handling media, Louis is building a family legacy. He has plans to expand Louliga’s unique lounge experience to other cities, while staying true to its core values.

“Exposed brick, comfortable seating, TVs—it’s about creating a welcoming environment,” Louis explained.

Louis Rodriguez, owner of Louliga Cigar Lounge in Philadelphia, shares a moment with lounge members while watching television, spring 2024. Photo: Delano Massey

The Bottom Line

Louis Rodriguez’s journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and community. From customizing cars to creating a premier cigar lounge, he’s built something extraordinary.

“You always want to own your own business,” Louis said. “For me, it was cigars. The opportunity came, and I took it.”

This story originally appeared on TheCigarChasers.com.