angelina, the bespoke cocktail bar, whisky lounge and restaurant at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, has been officially recognized as a “Habanos Lounge,” a designation reserved for the world’s most elite cigar bars.
angelina’s humidor features a carefully curated selection of premium Habanos Global brands, including legendary cigar labels such as Cohiba, Romeo y Julieta, Partagas and H. Upmann. The “Habanos Lounge” status underscores angelina’s commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for cigar lovers. angelina is the first Habanos Lounge in Vietnam’s capital.
“Our stylish bar, lounge and restaurant is the perfect spot to savor the rich flavors and aromas of an expertly hand-rolled Cuban cigar – perhaps as a way to cap off a rustic New World meal at angelina or alongside a pour from our world-class whisky collection,” said Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi General Manager George Koumendakos.
Habanos Lounges, a designation first established in the early 2000s, are required to have at least 60% Cuban cigars on their menu. The cigars must be constantly stored in a humidity- and temperature-controlled area (either a walk-in humidor or electric humidor cabin). The lounges also must meet other criteria on staff training, dedicated smoking areas and others.
The latest recognition follows other recent honors and developments at Metropole Hanoi. The hotel was awarded a Five-Star rating, the top level of distinction, from Forbes Travel Guide in February for a fifth consecutive year. And the 123-year-old luxury property was named one of the “World’s 500 Best Hotels” by the influential U.S.-based Travel + Leisure magazine in May.
The hotel’s Metropole Heritage Wing, with 103 guest rooms and suites, was meticulously restored and renovated under a 21-month construction project before reopening to guests in December. The new interiors maintain their traditional aesthetic and feel, and incorporate select original fixtures, while also introducing a considerable measure of bespoke comfort, advanced technology and vibrant color.
The comprehensive reconstruction work was centered on the original wing of the hotel, which was established in 1901 and has played host over the decades to numerous heads of state and royalty, along with world-renowned actors, writers, musicians and others.
