San Diego could make history by hosting California’s first cannabis café, following the recent signing of a bill by Governor Gavin Newsom.

The new law will allow businesses across the state to offer a smoking and dining experience similar to that found in Amsterdam.

National City is likely to be the first to open a cannabis café, thanks to Governor Newsom’s signing of Assembly Bill 1775. This groundbreaking legislation permits businesses to provide both a smoking and dining experience in a cannabis-friendly environment.

Sessions by the Bay: San Diego’s First Cannabis Lounge

Sessions by the Bay, located at 700 Bay Marina Drive, was already in the works as San Diego County’s first cannabis lounge, where patrons could enjoy communal “smoking sessions.” However, with the signing of the new bill, the vision for the venue has expanded.

Earlier this week, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1775, allowing cannabis businesses to serve food and non-cannabis beverages, while also granting them the ability to host concerts and other live events. This change elevates Sessions by the Bay from a simple smoking lounge to a full café experience.

What to Expect from Sessions by the Bay

Initially envisioned as a space for smoking only, Sessions by the Bay will now evolve into a café that enhances the overall experience.

According to Alex Ayon, director of Sessions by the Bay, the team is thrilled with this development. “We’re beyond excited,” Ayon told local media outlet KUSI. “Opening this lounge has been a long-time dream for us. We’ve been in this industry for 15 years, and everything is finally coming together, especially with the governor’s action on cannabis lounges.“

With Newsom’s signature, the new law will take effect on January 1, 2025. Ayon plans to open the lounge by mid-December, with food and drink service available as soon as the law permits. For now, no additional details are available as the venue is still under construction.

Location: 700 Bay Marina Drive, National City, CA 91950
Phone: 619-354-0655