Mt. Kisco Smoke Shop Hosts 'Grand Opening' With New Owners

Smokers Harbor II in Mount Kisco had a grand opening last Saturday

At the shop there were a few patrons chatting it up and enjoying the lunch that was set up owners Laura and Brian Kaplan, who took over from the original owners.

The original owners, Robert and Mary Ann Ambrosio were in business for more than 30 years (originally having a store on South Moger Avenue). Seven years ago they had relocated it to its current location. They showed interest in taking over the smoke shop and perking the place up a bit.

Laura Kaplan talked about how their interest in ownership came about, with her husband originally working there part time, in addition to be a battery distributor for his other job.

"Origianlly, Brian was working at the smoke shop on Saturdays. Over time, he developed a good relationship with the Ambrosios. As it got harder for them to run the place, Brian and I though of persuing buying the store from them. Brian was anxious for a career change as well."

"The original owners were losing customers from the store not being kept up like it used to be"  said Brian Kaplan. "We hope to bring some of those people back here, and hopefully some new customers as well."

The Kaplans want cigar aficionados in the area to know that they have a place where they can pick up their favorite cigars, try out new brands and even light up at their place. They could even meet up with old friends or even make some new ones. The original name of the store was Smokers Harbor. When the Kaplans bought it, they decided to add a "II" to the end of it.

Inside there is a small smoking area in the front with some comfortable chairs. The shop has six humidors and several other cases containing many items for smoking and pipe enthusiasts.

The owners also installed a big flat screen television as well. They will try to drum up some business in the fall by hosting  some Sunday-night NFL "parties." The shop is also open seven days a week.