A cannabis dispensary that launched in McGinley Square several months ago is hoping to soon be home to Jersey City’s first consumption lounge.
Originally called Medusa when Jersey Digs reported on the dispensary back in 2022, Xena officially opened back in April at 759A Bergen Avenue. The dispensary was founded by owner Haytham Elgawly, who ran The Clearport out of the same storefront for about six years before the pivot.
It was a tough road opening the shop, as nearby St. Peter’s University at one point sued to prevent the dispensary from launching so close to their campus. But Xena is now open daily from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. and recently launched their delivery service.
Drawing inspiration from Xenia – the ancient Greek concept of hospitality – Xena’s mission is to provide our customers with a welcoming and inclusive experience. From flowers to pre-rolls, edibles, topicals, beverages, and more, customers can experience cannabis in a way that best fits their needs.
Xena is hoping to become home to Jersey City’s first cannabis consumption lounge before the end of 2025. Elgawly tells Jersey Digs that their lounge space is already built out and waiting for several approvals, the first of which could come from the New Jersey Recreational Cannabis Commission as early as this week.
Jersey City’s Cannabis Control Board would then have to sign off on the endorsement, which would clear the path for Xena to open their lounge. The board has had a quorum issue in recent months, but three new members were appointed by the City Council during their July 16 meeting.
Xena’s lounge space will not serve food, but customers will be free to order from local restaurants at the facility. Those interested in updates as to when the lounge could launch can follow the business on Instagram at the handle @xena_nj.
