Reading the menu like a local

A coffeeshop menu is a list with four things on it: a name, a type, an amount and a price. Once you can read those, the rest is detail. The sections are usually weed, hash, pre-rolls and edibles, sometimes with drinks and extras.

The name is the strain or the hash. Next to it you will usually find the type: sativa, indica or hybrid, sometimes with a note such as Cali or branded (see entries 16 and 19). Hash is listed by how it is made, such as Moroccan, dry sift, waterhash or rosin (see entry 18). Treat the type as a first filter, not a rule. Pay closer attention to the THC and CBD percentages and to the flavour and effect notes most shops add.

Then the amount and the price. Prices are per gram, or for a fixed amount: 1 g, 2.5 g, a 3.5 g jar, a piece. Compare per gram if you want to compare shops. Remember the limit of five grams per person per day (see entry 03).

Look at what else is on the line: smalls, shake, moonrock and donut say something about the form and strength (see entry 20). If a menu has a date, notice it. Prices and stock change often, and what you read online may be out of date by the time you arrive.

A good menu tells a story for each strain; a good budtender tells you which story fits you.