Find the Best THC Infused Restaurant Near You

Edibles can be an ideal alternative to smoking and vaping. They are discreet, versatile, and a part of a rapidly expanding sector in the cannabis industry. 

While a plethora of edible products can be bought at dispensaries, a growing number of weed restaurants are opening up where cannabis is legal. These establishments provide THC-infused food and beverages that enhance both the dining and cannabis consumption experience for consumers. But are they legal?

Before visiting a cannabis-infused restaurant, it may be helpful to know what to expect when you arrive.

What are THC Infused Restaurants?

A cannabis-infused restaurant is a new take on the classic dining establishment. Depending on local laws, guests, restricted to 18 or 21 and over, can sit down for a dish or a beverage as they would at any traditional restaurant. THC is infused into some or all of these offerings to create an elevated experience while showcasing the versatile and ever-growing options of edibles. 

Weed-infused restaurants may infuse cannabis into top-shelf culinary cuisines or classic go-to favorites, like pizza.

If you’re interested in just visiting one of these THC establishments but not consuming, they most likely will also have non-infused items. You can always confirm with the staff if the menu is not clearly labeled.

Smoking policies will vary depending on state and local laws. Some establishments may have designated smoking areas in the venue or outside nearby, especially in jurisdictions where public consumption is legal.

Prices vary depending on the restaurant. However, guests should be ready to pay an additional cost for the experience and the cannabis. Other factors that may affect the bill include the quality of ingredients or the dish's potency.

What Kind of Food Can You Find at a Weed Infused Restaurant?

The market has greatly expanded from having just a few infused sweets and butter to enjoy. If you can eat it at a restaurant, you can probably find an infused restaurant or pop-up making similar dishes. From high-end dinner plates to quick bites on the go, cannabis can be infused into just about every food item you can imagine. 

Finding the ideal THC-infused restaurant is much like finding any other suitable place to eat or drink. You'll want to find an establishment with the menu you like, maybe even one with great ratings from previous customers. You may even want to see if a reservation is required if they have an online presence.

Review the menu carefully and consider your tolerance level before choosing your edible. Refer to the staff and ask questions if you need any clarification on the ingredients or dosage. While some weed-infused restaurants emphasize the efficacy of low dosing, others emphasize larger doses.

Which States Allow Weed Infused Restaurants?

No weed-infused restaurants have been established as licensed storefronts or dispensaries at this time. Instead, most operate within the regulations defined by state and local laws for operating a cannabis-friendly consumption lounge and don’t offer made-to-order cannabis-infused meals. Such restaurants can be found in many major US cities, including Los Angeles, Denver, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and more, though the number is relatively small now. 

The legal issues cannabis restaurants face are created due to parameters that ban cannabis events and the serving of infused food to consenting individuals. Instead, most restaurants tow a fine legal line by having ticket sales for a private event, taking donations, or selling other goods with the infused items added on as a gift.

Cannabis destinations like New York City and the Bay Area of California are rife with these private underground establishments and pop-ups, many of which cater to higher dose consumption. However, some places focus on showcasing the food equally, if not more, than the cannabis. The range of options creates a variety of experiences that cater to a range of plant and food enthusiasts.

How Can I Find a THC-Infused Restaurant Near Me?

Weed-infused restaurants primarily operate in legal gray areas, so finding one is usually more challenging than finding a non-infused eatery. 

You might find a listing or two masked as a dispensary on an app like Weedmaps, but you're more likely to find the best results with social media. Many infused food and beverage providers have a social media presence despite most, if not all, platforms banning cannabis content. 

You can also try Google. Most cannabis-friendly cities nationwide have at least one or two cannabis-consumption or underground cannabis-infused restaurants in the top few Google search results. For example, if you're looking for some infused deep dish or other edibles in the Illinois metro area, you might want to do a search for “weed restaurants in Chicago.” An inquiry like this may yield results for infused restaurants in the area. 

Remember that while many infused eateries are open to the public, some, particularly private dining events, may be invite-only or exclusive to paid members. 

Another effective search method is to tap into your cannabis community. You may find local cannabis enthusiasts to help you discover your new favorite weed restaurant.

Tips for Eating at a Weed Infused Restaurant

Attending an infused restaurant can be a memorable and enjoyable experience. To prepare for visiting these establishments, consider a few factors. 

Start Slow, Be Patient

Edibles often take 15 to 120 minutes to feel their effects. Wait at least two or more hours before increasing your dosages. Failure to remember this may result in feeling substantial effects for a prolonged period. 

Pay Attention to Potency 

Potency can vary significantly at infused restaurants, particularly if it is an underground or unlicensed spot where dosing can be considerably higher than allowed on the legal market. Examine the company's menu and website beforehand to ensure you aren't eating or drinking above your threshold.

Avoid Mixing Substances

Mixing THC with alcohol can lead to an often unpleasant experience known as crossfaded. Getting crossfaded can lead to numerous adverse outcomes, especially in a public setting like a restaurant, ranging from passing out and falling asleep to nausea and vomiting.

Don’t Drive Home

No matter your personal assertion, the law prohibits driving under the influence. With significant doses delivered at most infused restaurants, walking or taking a cab home may be a better idea.

Avoid Overindulging

Our eyes are often bigger than our stomachs when at restaurants. That feeling may increase when THC is added. While you may want to eat or drink more, remember that many, if not all, of the items on the menu are infused with THC. Consuming an excessive amount of food, beverage, or THC in one sitting can lead to unwanted outcomes, highlighted by nausea and indigestion.

While those concerns are worth noting, remember that an infused restaurant is one of the more exciting and unique ways to consume cannabis. With a bit of preparation for what's in store, you can have a great time and may want to return for seconds.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.