West Hollywood added its fifth cannabis lounge on June 21, 2024. Called Private Reserve, the new establishment comes from Off The Charts, which is a chain of dispensaries across California, New Mexico, and Ohio. Private Reserve is located at 8448 Santa Monica Boulevard.
Unlike its local predecessors—Cannabis Cafe, Artist Tree, PleasureMed, and the Woods—which blend cannabis with culinary experiences, Private Reserve takes a minimalistic approach. This lounge only offers smokable and drinkable cannabis without any food, making it similar to a traditional cocktail lounge but with a twist.
The concept was created by Norman Yousif, CEO of Off The Charts, and Nima Haddadi, attorney and co-designer. The duo aimed to create a space where the focus is squarely on the cannabis experience. Private Reserve showcases an impressive selection of 20 to 30 different strains of dried cannabis flower. Unique to this venue, servings come in half-gram portions—a deliberate choice that Yousif believes offers a “better and less hazy” option compared to the typical dispensary-sized eighth of a gram.
“Our vision was clear—we wanted a place focused on quality cannabis, emulating the feel of an upscale bar where people come to enjoy drinks. Only here, the drinks are psychoactive seltzers and the ambiance invites a relaxed, yet sophisticated cannabis experience,” explains Haddadi.
Private Reserve’s offerings include cannabis joints, bong use, and beverages from Cann, a California-based cannabis beverage producer. These drinks are like hard seltzers and feature flavors such as pineapple jalapeño, blood orange cardamom, and lemon lavender, which rotate seasonally. In addition, guests can enjoy a “cannabis flight.” This mirrors the wine flight concept, which allows them to sample various strains.
The design of the lounge also sets it apart. The West Hollywood location is substantially larger than its sister lounge in Palm Desert, with seating for 85 people spread across six booths and an additional 25 at a horseshoe-shaped bar. Neon lights, large plants cascading from the ceiling, and a stage for DJs contribute to a moody, “loungey” atmosphere that Yousif believes distinctly separates Private Reserve from the typical cannabis lounge.
However, the establishment has already had its share of controversy. Earlier this year, Yousif was criticized following remarks about cost-saving measures that reportedly involved not paying vendors—a significant issue in the cannabis-growing community. He has since apologized, clarifying that his comments were taken out of context and reaffirming his commitment to maintaining strong, healthy business relationships.
As part of a city initiative that started in 2018, West Hollywood plans to welcome a total of 16 cannabis lounges to enhance its reputation as a progressive destination for the cannabis culture. Private Reserve, open Thursday through Saturday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., requires reservations, which can be made on OpenTable. Guests are advised of a 90-minute time limit per visit, in compliance with state laws that prohibit the sale of cannabis after 10 p.m. However, preorders can be securely stored for later pickup.
Private Reserve’s opening contributes to the diversification of West Hollywood’s entertainment landscape and also emphasizes the evolving acceptance and integration of cannabis into mainstream hospitality. As the city continues to expand its cannabis lounge offerings, it reinforces its commitment to jumpstarting a new model of cannabis-centric social venues.
