The seed for West Tampa Tobacco Company was planted in 1953, when Rick Rodriguez’s grandparents paid homage to their Cuban roots and made the U.S. their home. Wisely capitalizing on West Tampa's booming cigar business, they applied their generations-old craftsmanship to their new trade and persevered through any tough times that came their way. This dedication to excellence inspired Rick from an early age, instilling in him a steadfast work ethic and giving him the determination to follow his dreams. West Tampa Cigars stands proud today thanks to the hard-working Rodríguezes who left a legacy of quality that goes beyond just cigars -- it is a sentiment of hope and ambition that still lives on.