The West Tampa Devil Crab is a distinctive, limited-edition cigar from West Tampa Tobacco Company, created as a tribute to the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Tampa, Florida. Inspired by the famous “devil crab” croquette, a local delicacy, the cigar reflects both the history of the region and the creativity of master blender Rick Rodriguez.
Handcrafted in Nicaragua at the Garmendia factory, the Devil Crab comes in a short, stout perfecto/figurado format (4½ x 60), designed to echo the shape of its namesake dish. Its blend remains undisclosed, adding a layer of intrigue, but it is widely recognised for delivering a medium to full-bodied profile with a balanced mix of richness and spice.
From the first draw, the cigar typically opens with notes of cocoa and black pepper, developing into a core of earth, toasted bread, and subtle sweetness, before finishing with deeper flavours of espresso, oak, and lingering spice. Construction is generally strong, offering a steady burn and smooth draw, with a smoking time of around an hour or more.
Part of the “Chef Rick” series, the Devil Crab is produced in limited quantities and often packaged in eye-catching boxes inspired by seafood crates, sometimes even including a recipe card for the dish itself. This playful concept, combined with its bold presentation and flavour profile, makes it a memorable addition to the West Tampa portfolio.
Overall, the West Tampa Devil Crab is a unique, conversation-starting cigar that blends tradition, storytelling, and craftsmanship, well suited to smokers looking for something a little different from the norm.
Now available to order
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A great cigar deserves a perfect cut. While much attention is often placed on selecting the right cigar or finding the ideal lighter, the cutter is just as important in ensuring the best possible smoking experience. The cut you make directly affects airflow, draw resistance, and ultimately how much enjoyment you get from every cigar.
