Sacramento has taken a historic step by approving cannabis cafes, making it one of the first major California cities to allow on-site cannabis consumption for adults 21 and over. In a close vote, Mayor Kevin McCarty cast the deciding ballot to allow cannabis cafes across the city. These new venues will give residents and visitors a safe, regulated environment to enjoy cannabis products without using public spaces or violating lease agreements.
Maisha Bahiti, owner of Crystal Nugs at 2300 J Street, is among the first entrepreneurs preparing for cannabis cafes. Her 1,500-square-foot lounge, long envisioned as a social hub, will now become a legal space for upscale entertainment and cannabis use. Bahiti expects cannabis cafes to drive significant business growth and serve renters who cannot consume in their homes. “I expect this is going to be a huge thing, not only for business, but for our customers as well,” she said.
City Councilmember Phil Pluckebaum stressed that cannabis cafes offer a responsible alternative to public consumption. “What we want to do is provide folks a responsible way to enjoy that activity so they’re not having to resort to our public spaces,” he explained. By establishing regulated venues,
Not everyone is enthusiastic about cannabis cafes. Youth activist Aaron Cordoza voiced concern over the potential impact on young people, particularly if the cafes are located near parks, schools, or residential neighborhoods. He urged the city to focus on community programs rather than cannabis clubs. His comments highlight the ongoing debate over how to balance adult freedoms with youth protection as cannabis cafes roll out.
Dispensaries planning to open cannabis cafes will need to install special ventilation systems and apply for city permits. Officials expect the first venues to be operational by next year. Pluckebaum also noted that cannabis cafes could boost tourism by offering visitors a safe, legal place to consume cannabis while experiencing Sacramento’s culture and nightlife.
With its approval of cannabis cafes, Sacramento is positioning itself as a leader in regulated cannabis hospitality. These spaces promise to generate new jobs, support local entrepreneurs, and create an attractive destination for cannabis tourism. If successful, cannabis cafes could become a model for other cities looking to combine public safety, economic growth, and a thriving cannabis culture.