Rome City Commissioners have approved a variance that will allow a new cigar bar, Elevation Cigar House, in Rome to count tobacco products toward its 50/50 food to drink ratio in order to sell alcohol.

The variance mirrors the same that was given to Old Havana Cigar Company on Broad Street.

Elevation Cigar House on Fifth Avenue

Another variance from the commission will allow Combat Market on Broad Stret to count firearm sales toward its ratio.

A recommendation for a “small bar” ordinance has been tabled to a later date.  If approved, bars that are under 1,200 feet would be able to sell liquor without having to meet the food to drink ratio.  The Rome Alcohol Control Commission will continue to study the variance before making a recommendation back to Commissioners.

Numerous restaurants in the downtown area have came out against the ordinance stating that it would hurt their businesses.