You may already know Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, D.C. for its inventive cocktails, extensive wine cellar and elegant menu. Now there’s an added draw for cigar enthusiasts: Mason Foster has joined the restaurant as its cigar sommelier. A graduate of Tobacconist University in Princeton, New Jersey, Foster is the first on‑staff tobacco professional at a Washington, D.C. restaurant. Bourbon Steak now offers a carefully curated cigar list and a comfortable courtyard where guests can enjoy their selections.
Foster has highlighted several cigars that pair especially well with the restaurant’s culinary and beverage programs. His recommendations emphasize balance, flavor complexity and appropriate smoking times so guests can savor each cigar without feeling rushed.
- Avo Classic No. 9: This creamy robusto was created by Avo Uvezian in collaboration with master blender Hendrik Kelner of Davidoff. It opens with a light, nutty character and notable pistachio notes, delivering a smooth, refined experience. Allow approximately forty minutes to enjoy its full progression.
- Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story: Wrapped in a golden Cameroon leaf with a Dominican binder, this short, tapered cigar delivers a spectrum of flavors that begins with a light, sweet black pepper, then develops woodsy tones, pine and cedar. Its compact size is deceptive—plan about thirty minutes to appreciate its evolution.
- My Father Le Bijou 1922 Torpedo: This Habano Oscuro torpedo offers bright spice, charred black pepper and hints of sweet, chocolate‑covered raisins. As it rests on the palate, those initial notes give way to worn leather, salted caramel and white pepper. Because of its complexity and length, expect to spend roughly an hour and twenty minutes with this cigar.
Guests seeking guidance can consult Mason Foster for pairing suggestions that match a chosen cigar with cocktails, wine or menu items. The restaurant’s courtyard provides a relaxed setting to enjoy these pairings, whether savoring a short smoke after dinner or lingering over a longer cigar with a late‑night drink. With an on‑staff cigar expert and a thoughtful selection, Bourbon Steak aims to offer a refined experience for both food and cigar aficionados.