NYC Bud Arrives in Hell’s Kitchen with Grand Central-Inspired Design
New Cannabis Dispensary Blends Local Products with Iconic Transit Nostalgia
A unique new cannabis dispensary has opened its doors in Hell’s Kitchen, offering a distinctive journey for customers. NYC Bud, located at 405 W39th Street, immerses patrons in a detailed replica of Grand Central Station, combining locally sourced cannabis products with a strong sense of New York City heritage.
A Journey Through a Familiar Station
Upon entering, visitors are guided to the “main concourse,” where a stunning, scaled-down replica of Grand Central’s famous constellation-filled ceiling mural greets them. This artwork was brought to life by street artists Jamie Hef and Cern. The store’s central information booth features a clocktower, a vintage phone booth, and a “tickets” counter where orders are collected, with arrivals displayed on a screen above, mimicking train departures.
The design extends to the ATMs, which are modeled after Metro North ticket machines, further enhancing the immersive experience. Co-owner Giancarlo Pinto shared his vision: We’re looking to stay true to New York, give people an immersive experience, with top brands and educated cannabis connoisseurs that are passionate about what we do here.
The store’s ATM is inspired by a Metro North ticket machine.
Owners Cultivate Local Roots and Unique Vision
Jonpaul Pezzo and Giancarlo Pinto, friends for two decades, aim to create a memorable destination. Our goal is always, what is going to get people to take pictures of this place, post about it, and become its promoters?
Jonpaul stated. This creative approach mirrors their first venture, a Long Island City dispensary designed as a subway station and train car.
The duo have cultivated strong relationships with New York State cannabis farms, ensuring a curated selection of flower, prerolls, vapes, and edibles. I peddle in vices,
joked Jonpaul, referencing his 20-year career as a club promoter and his deep ties to Hell’s Kitchen, including memories of the now-closed Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market.
The opening was attended by viral sensation Buddy the Rat, portrayed by puppeteer Jonothon Lyons, adding a touch of local flair. Giancarlo expressed optimism about the neighborhood’s evolution, noting the upcoming Port Authority Bus Terminal renovations. The whole neighborhood’s changing,
he remarked. While the area used to be ‘a little bit seedier,’ we’re looking to seed and sprout a little different type of tree to the future of 39th Street.
After design completion in April, the owners faced a waiting period for their state license, enduring months of rent payments. It’s impossible to budget for it, but it really drains you,
Jonpaul shared. I’m happy, I mean, it was so stressful.
The wait is now over, marking a new chapter for the business and the street.
NYC Bud is now open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. In 2023, New York State’s legal cannabis market generated approximately $500 million in sales, according to industry reports, highlighting the growing sector.
