About Eight Nine Eight
Eight Nine Eight Cigar Lounge & Bar is a place built for slowing down — a space where craftsmanship, conversation, and comfort come together in the heart of downtown Washington, Missouri.
Housed in a historic building just steps from the riverfront and the Amtrak station, our lounge blends old-world character with modern refinement. Warm leather seating, natural stone, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that feels timeless without being formal — elevated, but always welcoming.
Large front windows open the space to the rhythm of downtown, placing you within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and boutique stays, while still offering a retreat from the pace outside. Whether you’re stopping in after dinner, meeting friends for a pour, or settling in for the evening, Eight Nine Eight is designed to feel like a place you belong.
Our walk-in humidor features a thoughtfully curated selection of cigars, complemented by a whiskey-forward bar and a focused cocktail program built around balance, quality, and intention. From classic pours to modern interpretations, every offering is chosen to enhance the experience — never overwhelm it.
Above all, Eight Nine Eight exists to create space: for conversation, for connection, and for the simple pleasure of enjoying something well made.
Why "EIGHT NINE EIGHT"?
The name EIGHT NINE EIGHT comes from one of the cigar world's enduring traditions.
For generations, premium cigars have been arranged in a classic bundle of twenty-five cigars: eight on the bottom layer, nine in the middle, and eight on top. Known simply as an "8-9-8," this distinctive presentation became associated with quality craftsmanship and some of the most respected cigars produced.
While many cigar smokers have heard the term, few know where it comes from.
The 8-9-8 arrangement is a reminder that premium cigars have always been about more than tobacco alone. Careful craftsmanship, attention to detail, and pride in presentation have been part of the tradition for generations, long before a cigar ever reached a humidor.
Story Behind the Ravens
If you've visited the lounge, you've probably noticed the two ravens featured in our logo.
Inspired by Norse mythology and our shared German heritage, the ravens represent Huginn ("Thought") and Muninn ("Memory"), the faithful companions of Odin. Each day they traveled the world, returning with knowledge of what they had seen and heard.
To us, they symbolize something much more personal.
One raven looks forward toward what lies ahead, while the other looks back at where we've been. Together they represent honoring tradition while embracing the future, a philosophy that guided the design of EIGHT NINE EIGHT from the very beginning.
Just like the ravens, every guest leaves with a story, and every visit becomes part of the lounge's history.
About the Owners
Scott Dieckhaus
Scott’s vision for Eight Nine Eight grew from a long-standing appreciation for cigars, hospitality, and meaningful gathering spaces. With a background in public service and community leadership, he saw an opportunity to create something that felt both elevated and accessible — a place where people could slow down, connect, and enjoy the moment. As a certified tobacconist, Scott brings both knowledge and approachability to the experience, helping guests feel comfortable whether they’re seasoned enthusiasts or discovering cigars for the first time.
Doug Maune
Doug approaches the lounge with the mindset of a craftsman. With a background rooted in skilled trade work and a deep respect for quality materials and thoughtful design, he brings a hands-on perspective to every detail of Eight Nine Eight. As a certified tobacconist, Doug values not only the product itself, but the experience surrounding it — from proper storage and pairing to the atmosphere in which it’s enjoyed. His goal is simple: create a space that feels welcoming, intentional, and worth returning to.
Our Philosophy
At Eight Nine Eight, we believe the best experiences are unhurried. We focus on quality over excess, craftsmanship over trends, and connection over noise. Whether you’re here for a quiet pour, a great cigar, or good company, our goal is to make every visit feel considered, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming.
Visit Us
Whether you're an experienced cigar enthusiast, a bourbon lover, a pipe smoker, or simply looking for a comfortable place to spend an evening with friends, we'd love to welcome you to EIGHT NINE EIGHT.
Come in, grab a seat, light a cigar, and stay awhile.