Friday Photo: Iwan Ries

by Joe Thorn on December 7, 2007

The famous Iwan Ries

I was recently downtown and finally took a few photos outside Iwan Ries – the oldest and most famous tobacconist in Chicago. If you are a cigar or pipe smoker, and are in town, it’s a necessary stop. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and they have a great selection of everything. I have found that the local “cigar shop” is a great place to meet other men from the neighborhood and have great conversations. My favorite tobacconist, Bull and Bear in Saint Charles, is a place I wish I could spend much more time. It’s one of those “third places” that offers more opportunities for conversation than almost any other.

About Joe Thorn

I am the Lead Pastor of Redeemer Fellowship in Saint Charles, IL, and author of Note to Self: The Discipline of Preaching to Yourself. Jen is my wife, and Katherine, Elias, Madeline and Kilian are my kids.

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  • http://livesalty.com dustin

    I am actually sitting on my porch smoking a cigar as I read this, ironic huh?

  • Chris W

    can’t remember the last time I filled my pipe.

  • http://thin-edge.org Bill Lollar

    Next time you’re in Iwan Ries, ask them if there’s a Welsh connection. The name “Iwan” or “Ieuan” is a common Welsh name for “John.” It’s pronounced “YOO – an” here in Wales. And the last name is normally spelled “Rees” in Wales, but pronounced just like “Reese” in the states. I haven’t seen “Ries” before. Just curious!

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