San Diego County's First-Ever Cannabis Lounge Nears Completion
San Diego County is about to make history with its first-ever cannabis lounge, a space designed for people to gather, socialize, and consume cannabis in a relaxed, restaurant-like setting. As the project nears completion, ABC 10 News reporter Shaheen reports from National City, where the cannabis lounge, called Sessions by the Bay, is taking shape.
The building's interior looks like the early stages of a stylish restaurant, with modern booths, counter tops, and even unique bathrooms. But what makes it different is its primary purpose: to offer a public space where people can consume cannabis products. This lounge is setting the standard for what cannabis lounges should look like in California, according to the CEO and owner, who gave us a tour of the exciting new venture.
What to Expect from Sessions by the Bay
The layout of Sessions by the Bay is split between two floors. The first floor is a familiar sight for anyone who has visited a cannabis dispensary: it's lined with a range of cannabis products like pre-rolls and edibles. But it's the second floor that truly sets the lounge apart. This floor will feature a comfortable lounge area, where guests can relax, order food, and consume cannabis products in a social environment.
In addition to a variety of cannabis products, the lounge will offer a menu of non-cannabis items like regular meals and non-alcoholic mocktails. This gives patrons the option to enjoy a full dining experience, whether they are looking to indulge in cannabis or simply enjoy a meal with friends. Servers will be available to take orders for both cannabis-infused dishes and traditional meals, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone.
A Milestone for Cannabis Culture in San Diego
The project began back in 2022 when the owner applied for permission to open a cannabis lounge in National City. The application was approved in 2023, but it wasn’t until January 2024 that the state legalized cannabis lounges offering their own food and drink. Now, Sessions by the Bay stands as the only business in San Diego County with a license to operate this type of cannabis lounge, making it a groundbreaking venture for the region.
According to the CEO, this is just the beginning. The lounge's location includes a rooftop space that could potentially be developed into a third floor, further expanding the lounge’s offerings as the business grows.
With its unique concept and the growing acceptance of cannabis consumption in California, Sessions by the Bay is sure to be a trailblazer in the cannabis lounge scene, setting a precedent for similar businesses to follow in the years ahead. Keep an eye on this innovative space as it opens its doors to cannabis enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, offering a new way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis in a welcoming, social atmosphere.
