Newark, NJ, is poised to open its first cannabis consumption lounge, Hashstoria, spearheaded by a team that includes Wu-Tang Clan’s Raekwon, media personality Charlamagne tha God, and civil rights lawyer Bakari Sellers. The venture has successfully obtained a Class V (retail) license from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission.
Raekwon, whose real name is Corey Woods and was born in Brooklyn, founded Hashstoria in Astoria, Oregon, before deciding to bring his venture to Newark. According to Benzinga, the project is expected to debut as a dispensary in early 2024 and transition to a consumption lounge later in the year, establishing itself as the city’s second dispensary and a trailblazer in on-site cannabis consumption.
“We are thrilled to be collaborating with the wonderful city of Newark to safely and legally expand the cannabis industry here,” Sellers stated. “The Hashstoria team expresses deep gratitude to the Mayor’s Office and City Council for their partnership, and we are committed to maintaining close cooperation with them as we progress in this remarkable journey,” he added.
Hashstoria says it aims to revitalize a long-neglected building, transforming it into a dynamic community hub that provides unique cannabis experiences while paying homage to Newark’s rich cultural heritage.
Rachael H. Grochowski of RHG A+D has been enlisted to oversee the redesign and layout of Hashstoria. “Design will play a crucial role in creating a holistic experience for our customers, starting from the moment they step inside,”Grochowski said.