A new establishment in Escazu intends to become Costa Rica’s first “smoke-easy” in defiance of the Tobacco Control Law which was enacted in early April. This law explicitly prohibits smoking in many places where the public gathers, particularly bars and restaurants.

The Tobacco Control Law does not seem to concern Don Sergio Martinez too much. Mr. Martinez is the businessman behind “9 Degrees North”, a bar located in the Cortijo Shopping Center in Escazu. In an interview with news radio station Radio Reloj 94.3 FM, Mr. Martinez explained that his establishment qualifies as a private club, which will allow patrons to smoke the best tobacco imports -according to the club’s website and Facebook page.

The club’s signage and logo appear as 9*N, where the asterisk is a globe with North America on display. Aside from smoking, it offers a selection of alcoholic beverages, appetizers and live music.

Mr. Martinez claims that 9 Degrees North has the required permit for patrons to smoke. The club bills itself as a bar, and on its web site offers the following welcome paragraph:

Welcome to 9°N. From our exclusive selection of premium liquors, champagnes, and cigars from around the world to our elegantly yet relaxed styled lounge with iPads on every table you will find nothing else like it in Costa Rica.

We are Costa Rica’s Only Private Cigar Lounge!

According to Radio Reloj, the club opened its doors a couple of weeks ago and does not boast members yet, although the general public is welcome with a $5 admission fee.

A complaint against 9 Degrees North has already been filed with the Ministry of Public Health, and the Municipality of Escazu explained to Radio Reloj that while the establishment has the required permit to operate as a bar, it cannot be exempt from the Tobacco Control Law.