Casablanca Cigar Bar Announces Early 2026 Reopening of Biltmore Village Location
Sep 28, 2025 12:41PM ● By WNC Business
Sam and Brooke Souhail, owners and founders of Casablanca Cigar Bar.
Casablanca Cigar Bar, a destination for cigars and cocktails in Western North Carolina, today announced plans for the early 2026 reopening of its flagship Historic Biltmore Village location, following recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The reopening will mark not only a new chapter for the establishment itself but also the broader revival of Biltmore Village as new businesses and renewed energy return to the historic district.
“This past year has been about reflection, resilience, and reimagining what Casablanca can be,” said Sam Souhail, owner of Casablanca Cigar Bar. “When we return in 2026, guests can expect the best cigar selection in Western North Carolina, a newly expanded bar, and a cocktail program that highlights seasonal offerings and perfect cigar pairings.”
Hurricane Helene’s unprecedented flooding in September 2024 left Historic Biltmore Village devastated, forcing dozens of businesses to close. Nearly a year later, many have begun the long road back, with new shops and restaurants opening and long-time institutions committing to rebuilding.
“This past year has been about reflection, resilience, and reimagining what Casablanca can be,” said Sam Souhail, owner of Casablanca Cigar Bar. “When we return in 2026, guests can expect the best cigar selection in Western North Carolina, a newly expanded bar, and a cocktail program that highlights seasonal offerings and perfect cigar pairings.”
Hurricane Helene’s unprecedented flooding in September 2024 left Historic Biltmore Village devastated, forcing dozens of businesses to close. Nearly a year later, many have begun the long road back, with new shops and restaurants opening and long-time institutions committing to rebuilding.
“We are grateful to our local community for all the grace and support they have shown us, and we also want to thank the national media for all the positive coverage. They are giving our community, letting the world know “we are open and ready to serve you. Come and see us!” - Vanessa Salomo, Corner Kitchen Café
Casablanca’s reopening will join this wave of rejuvenation. Souhail emphasizes that the comeback is not just about one business, but about restoring the social and cultural heart of Biltmore Village.
“We are thrilled to see our Biltmore Village community continue to rebuild after Helene; we know everyone’s path back is different and has its own challenges. Casablanca Cigar Bar is a signature part of what makes our district so special, both in preserving our history and creating a vibrant future. We offer our congratulations to our friends at Casablanca and are excited to celebrate every step of their progress back to reopening!” -- Historic Biltmore Village Association.
While Biltmore Village prepares for Casablanca’s return, guests can still enjoy the Casablanca experience at the Main Street location in downtown Hendersonville, NC. Open daily, this location continues to provide premium cigars, handcrafted drinks, and the welcoming atmosphere that Casablanca is known for.
“Every new storefront, every reopened door, is a sign of strength,” Souhail explained. “Casablanca is proud to be part of this collective story of resilience and renewal.”
What’s New in 2026
Casablanca Cigar Bar’s reopening will introduce several upgrades designed to elevate the guest experience:
- An expanded and upgraded bar for a top-tier cocktail program
- Seasonal craft cocktails created to pair seamlessly with cigar selections
- Improved mixed lounge seating areas for both intimate gatherings and social groups
- Enhanced ventilation and air purification for maximum comfort
- WNC’s most comprehensive cigar selection, curated for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers