Every storied institution has its origin myth. Rome had Romulus and Remus; Odessa, the Duke de Richelieu. The Cesar Autonne Cigar Club was born of a story: a lost smoking pipe pouch, a French documentarian, and a question posed at exactly the right moment.

While Frédéric Laffont was filming his documentary about Mikhail Reva, we shared a drink with a few expats who had been living in Odessa for years. One of them — coincidentally also named Frédéric — asked: "Where is it comfortable to smoke cigars in this city?" At that moment, the idea of creating a specialized cigar club for true Odessa lovers was born.  Even in 2025, the passion for world-class cigars and profound conversation burns brighter than ever; we knew we had to establish its ultimate sanctuary.

Instinct sparked immediate action. We secured a venue overflowing with heritage and refined ventilation—a space where the walls have echoed the brilliance of Odessa's luminaries for generations.