Grandma Jazz – A legacy, Continued

In the mountains of Phuket, Thailand, sits Grandma Jazz, a unique space where the charm of home meets the soulful rhythm of jazz. Here, we celebrate those who’ve found balance in their cannabis use—moving beyond the stereotypes and embracing a mindful, purposeful approach.

Imagine a place where every detail is crafted to make you feel at ease. At Grandma Jazz, we honor the essence of the early 1900s jazz scene, creating a place where comfort, style, and connection come together. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned enthusiast, we invite you to experience a setting that feels like a pastime, where the music is always playing, and all the small things are taken care of. Come join our family and rediscover the roots of the soulful smoke started by legends.

Background: The Origins of Grandma Jazz

Starting Grandma Jazz was like setting the stage for a beautiful performance as if the space wanted to come to life. From the beginning, our focus was on soothing the five senses, with a little consideration of each. This, we felt, was what other dispensaries were missing—a holistic approach that goes beyond the product and taps into how it feels to be in the space. Once we crafted this environment, everything else fell into place. The experience of the high, the connection between people, and the sense of belonging all aligned perfectly. Some have said that just being in the cafe, they had felt high.

Choosing the name Grandma Jazz was a deliberate nod to the past, a way of paying respect to those who came before us. We wanted to honor the less obvious but deeply important influences in our lives—our grandmothers. These are the people who raised the people who raised us, shaping who we are in ways that might not always be visible but are undeniably essential. Grandma Jazz is a tribute to that legacy, encouraging us to look beyond what’s easily seen and appreciate the roots that ground us.

The café’s homage to early jazz ties directly into this reverence for the past. The jazz scene of that era was pivotal to the cannabis movement, with figures like Louis Armstrong embracing cannabis, known affectionately as “gage,” and calling themselves “Vipers.” This rich cultural history, often forgotten, is woven into the very fabric of Grandma Jazz. We celebrate those early pioneers, blending their spirit of creativity and rebellion with the modern, mindful approach to cannabis that defines our space today.

The Experience: Stepping into Grandma Jazz

Imagine an old, black & white photograph of a dark, smoky jazz bar, with “Vipers” wearing hats & enjoying good music & better company…now jump into the photo and pass the “gage,” my dear. Grandma jazz is an experience from the moment you walk through those wooden doors, transporting you back to a time before our time.

The smooth, soulful notes of jazz music welcome you into a space that feels familiar and classic. The floor beneath your feet is a checkered stone, grounding you as your eyes take in the rich, nostalgic ambiance. Chandeliers cast a warm glow over vintage furniture, instruments from a bygone era, and staff dressed in vintage attire that nods to the days when jazz was king.

The air is filled with the subtle, inviting scent of fresh, organic flowers—a fragrance that instantly puts you at ease. It’s a place where every detail, from the decor to the music, is carefully curated to soothe your senses and lift you into a time when life was lived with intention and simplicity.

Our menu is as thoughtful as the space itself. Our signature dairy-free, local ice cream is a crowd favorite, alongside our Phuket roasted and world renowned coffee, and a wide selection of loose-leaf teas. But it’s Grandma’s sugar-free, vegan brownie that has truly melted hearts worldwide—a treat that embodies both indulgence and care. Needless to say, Grandma’s flower selection is carefully selected from local & responsible farmers across Thailand, passionate about quality.

What makes Grandma Jazz truly memorable is the personal touch. Each member of the team introduces themselves on a first-name basis, making you feel like you’re visiting old friends rather than a café. They take the time to ask about you, to learn your preferences, and to curate a personalized experience just for you. Guests enter, but family members exit—now that’s an encounter.

Community and Culture: Building a Family at Grandma Jazz

At Grandma Jazz, we believe in the power of community and connection. Our café is a cozy gathering spot where everyone can enjoy their time. With our “Saturday Sessions,” featuring live saxophone, we’re not just welcoming those local to Phuket but inviting those across oceans to join in online, roll up & kick back.

As active members of the Phuket Cannabis Association, Grandma Jazz is championing the cannabis industry with integrity and creativity. Our mission is to showcase cannabis as a tool for creativity and well-being rather than just a drug, representing the industry in its best light.

Sustainability is a big part of our family values. At Grandma Jazz, we’re proud to be the 1st & only fully plastic-free cannabis dispensary in the world. It’s true. Every detail, from handmade bamboo joint holders and our entirely plant-based menu to the canvas smoking bags, reflects our deep commitment to sustainability. We even recycle your used tins for a 10% discount. Join us in pioneering a future where mindful choices create a more beautiful, connected world—one where the environment and community thrive together.

Our community initiative, “Garments,” includes up-cycling vintage clothing. By taking old, unwanted garments of clothing & turning them into sustainable trophies. With each item, you are actively contributing to the well-being of the elderly through local donations. Such a creative, eco-friendly way to cut down on waste and celebrate the beauty of repurposing.

The foundation of Grandma Jazz is inclusion, part of the family. From fist bumps and our “join the family” process to our team make sure you’re seen and heard. Our signature hat-wearing tradition is a fun symbol of unity, making every visit feel like a warm embrace from Grandma herself.

Challenges and Triumphs: Overcoming Obstacles and Celebrating Success

Running Grandma Jazz has been a journey filled with its fair share of lessons and triumphs. One infrequent yet significant hurdle we’ve faced has been managing over-intoxication among clients. This experience has taught us the importance of a more cautious and personalized approach when recommending and advising on cannabis use. It’s a responsibility we take seriously, and it’s helped us tailor each experience to fit the individual needs of our patrons, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable visit for everyone. We have kept the space free from alcohol, and we are also celebrating our flower’s characteristics in a state of balance.

Navigating changing laws here in Thailand has also kept us on our toes. I’m sure you’ve been scratching your head on this one, too. We’ve learned to adapt and stay informed, but we’ve also discovered the value of turning down the volume on the sensational news reports.
Politics will always be politics, my dears.

Grandma suggests avoiding the noise and focusing on the things within our control. For those doing business mindfully, we have nothing to worry about, going forward. Regulation is important to safeguard the public from harmful products, manage and set quality and to keep businesses informed and educated in this role.

You can always ask Grandma directly if you’re getting in a muddle.

As we continue to grow and step into the public eye, we remain committed to staying authentic. We are not a stereotype, we are everything. We are different because we are connecting to our higher selves. Musicians and creatives are naturally drawn to our space, and we eagerly invite those who want to bring their unique sounds to the Phuket mountains. The vibrant energy of our café is a testament to the creativity and passion of those who join us. Doctors, architects, sommeliers, DJs, curious souls, artists, and parents—not stoners, people.

On a personal note, being a budtender and core partner at Grandma Jazz has been an immense gift. It’s a privilege to be part of a space where people from every corner of the globe, regardless of background or nationality, come together and shed their labels. Seeing people connect on a deeper level, beyond borders, is profoundly meaningful. The Jazz? It represents an ensemble of instruments, each playing a unique sound but together. The people who enter Grandma Jazz also engage in a space with their unique sound. The “Jazz” is the people. We are jazz.

Photo credit: Brother Osher