Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikko FungChung.
Hi Nikko, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The Gas Station opened its doors in October of 2022. Nearly three years later The Gas Station has become one of Cleveland’s favorite and most unique hangouts.
The owners Kevin and Nikko met a few years ago in Los Cabo, Mexico and have been locked in ever since. Nikko a lifelong entrepreneur, author and creative visionary hailing from The Bronx, NY and Kevin a Cleveland native, entrepreneur and artist have proven to be an unstoppable pair. Combining their individual expertise, love of the arts and strong support of the legalization and decriminalization of cannabis they have created something truly special.
Everything about The Gas Station from the colors, the menu, the art, the music, and the overall vibe is a reflection of their shared journey. It’s a place rooted in authenticity, culture, and connection.
Not to be mistaken for just another smoke shop, this cafe offers a variety of products, novelty items and gifts. The artisanal tea menu with the options to infuse has received five star reviews. The Gas Station and the adjacent private lounge serve as an alternative to the traditional bar and lounge scene.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Bringing a new concept to a city is always a risk and Cleveland was no exception. From day one, we faced our fair share of red tape and steep learning curves. There were times when getting a straight answer felt impossible, and the process tested our patience and persistence. But through it all, we leaned on each other, problem-solved together, and stayed focused on the vision.
What started as a team of two slowly and organically grew into a team of five with each person bringing new energy. Every challenge strengthened our foundation, and every win reminded us why we started in the first place.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We are a small business of the culture and for the culture. For us, 420 isn’t a trend, it’s a lifestyle. Since the passage of Ohio’s recreational cannabis bill, the number of smoke shops and cannabis-themed venues has quadrupled, but nothing quite compares to The Gas Station.
We’ve created something different, something authentic.
At The Gas Station, we specialize in handcrafted teas, with the option to infuse. The “Good Morning Griselda”, “Sunset in Cabo”, and “The Mayor’s Tea” are some of our customer favorites!
Our menu also features coffee, hot chocolate, slushies, snacks, and other treats. The Gas Station brownies are famous in The Land!
But it doesn’t stop at food and drinks. Inside, you can shop for gifts, novelty items, exclusive merch, local clothing brands, sneakers, and more.
Right next door, you’ll find The Garage, a private lounge space. It’s decked out with TVs, gaming systems, karaoke, board games, art supplies, and even a curated library. Whether you’re looking to chill, create, or connect, it’s the perfect place to do it.
We host free weekly events: REEL Lit Movie Night, High Side Comedy + Open Mic, Light Up The Mic Karaoke. There’s also our special events such as the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Puff & Paintball field trip.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Sometimes it just takes taking a chance on someone, on something to make all your dreams come true.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gasstationonline.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegasstationon51st?igsh=Z2Jra3lxbWdzYWFh&utm_source=qr
