Listen to this article

Wu-Tang Clan rapper Raekwon the Chef is celebrating the New Jersey debut of his cannabis franchise.

Now open at 799-805 Broad St. in Newark, Hashstoria initially launched as recreational use cannabis retailer and will then evolve into a premier consumption lounge sometime next year.

In addition to offering an elite consumer experience and products, Hashstoria says it aims to serve as a wellness center that “weaves cannabis into a broader mission of community health, education and empowerment.”

Raekwon – whose real name is Corey Woods – spent more than a year working with partners media personality Charlamagne tha God, prominent civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers and entrepreneur Jedd Canty ahead of the launch in downtown Newark.

In a statement, Raekwon the Chef said, “Cannabis is just one part of our vision for Newark. We’re not just normalizing cannabis use; we’re using it as a catalyst to uplift our people and culture, much like hip-hop has done for decades.”

The Staten Island native added, “We’re proud to be part of Newark’s growing renaissance. We’re bridging the gap between the city’s rich history and its bright future, helping to write the next chapter.”

Sellers emphasized the brand’s dedication to social equity and community engagement. “We are committed to working with the great city of Newark to safely and legally expand the cannabis industry here,” he said.

“We appreciate the collaboration with the Mayor’s Office and the City Council, and we look forward to making a meaningful impact in the community by creating opportunities and fostering local talent,” Sellers added.

Clearing hurdles

The venture received approval from Newark’s landmark and historic preservation commission in February 2023. Clearance from Newark’s planning board followed in July 2023. Then last fall, Hashstoria received its Class 5 retail license last fall from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission.

At first, the planning board denied the application. At the time, community members, including those from nearby Old First Presbyterian Church, said that while they support bringing business to the city, they didn’t think Hashstoria picked an appropriate location.

In response, Hashstoria tried to reassure board members and the public that it would not be a disturbance to the neighborhood. The business also emphasized it would comply with all regulations set by the CRC.

After the rejection, Kelley Carey, a lawyer representing Hashstoria, said the company expected to pursue legal action.

Hashstoria spent months working with Rachael Grochowski, principal at Montclair-based RHG Architecture+Design on its new space. The work transformed a vacant building into a unique retail experience that blends the location’s historical significance with a modern, community-focused design. As part of a push to celebrate the city’s creative scene and offer a dynamic, immersive shopping experience, Hashstoria also features artwork from local artists.

Grochowski shared, “We are honored to be part of Newark’s ongoing renaissance by creating a space that celebrates the city’s vibrant history while looking toward its future. At RHG Architecture + Design, wellness and community are at the heart of our design philosophy, and Hashstoria embodies that.”

“This project is more than just a retail experience—it’s a place where people can connect, feel a sense of belonging, and contribute to the energy and culture that makes Newark so special,” she said.

A high-ly anticipated celebration

A grand opening event featuring special appearances, entertainment and community activities is set for Nov. 13 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

As part of the festivities, a 3 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place. Additional highlights include food trucks, giveaways, contests and exclusive deals on Hashstoria’s premium cannabis products.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hashstoria (@hashstoria)

Hashtoria encourages customers to sign up for the dispensary’s loyalty program by downloading its app from the Apple App Store. Those who join automatically enter a contest for a chance to win tickets to an exclusive, private performance by Raekwon the Chef.

The dispensary’s Instagram account will reveal event details in coming days.