For tobacco use only

August 7, 2013 6:09 AM

Any recommendations for a smoke shop in Chicago with a good selection of bubblers and friendly employees?

I'm specifically looking for a "chemistry lab" style borosilicate glass piece rather than, like, a hand-blown sculptural thing that looks like a dragon. Milwaukee Avenue corridor slightly preferred to the Clark/Belmont area.

posted by anonymous to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (2 answers total)

It's not in Chicago, but near Evanston*. It's called Smokes and Such, and a family runs it. Great people, great selection, and the kid remembered me even though I had been there once and wasn't back for over a year.

My only complaint is that it's feast/famine with their selection of local glass. Sometimes they got some great stuff by local artists, and sometimes they have a few spoons. That's not really a big deal for most, but as a gaffer I really pay attention to that stuff. It's like supporting the underground music scene, to me.

*I just googled their site and it says Gurnee, when I am almost certain I was in Evanston when I use to go there. Either I'm directionally challenged, got a bad memory, or they moved.
posted by Bathtub Bobsled at 6:28 AM on August 7, 2013

I have a friend who lives in Chicago and enjoys the same types of glassware. She's familiar with the Clark/Belmont area, and says to look close to The Alley. One right next to, and one right across from. She tells me they are some really nice shops.
posted by deezil at 10:12 AM on August 7, 2013