Grandview Smokeshop

When I was young, I would make my Dad drive me around after I did my chores to various smokeshops so I could by baseball or hockey cards. I wanted to go to different ones each time, because I was convinced that you could get better or different cards when you went to a more variety of places. Those old smokeshops don’t really exist anymore, but Grandview on Commercial is an old throwback. They don’t sell any sports cards, but they do have lots of vintage pop. When I say vintage I mean they bring in American brands that you can’t get elsewhere.

Located right by 1^st Avenue and Commercial Drive, this run down convenience store is open late, and run by a very friendly man who sometimes seems a little sleepy. While most of the products are standard issue groceries and energy drinks, the store’s long history in the community has led to a loyal following from many of the local nicotine-​addicted residents.
True to its namesake, the store sells a large variety of cigarettes, cigars, and even pipe tobacco, everything from Cubans to Captain Blacks. This has led to an inevitable equipping of marijuana paraphernalia as well, and for less than $ 2 you can purchase any of 12 different kinds of blunt wraps.
Conspicuous and small, it’s a worthwhile visit if you feel like getting festive and switching over to clove cigarettes for the holidays.