CBD Cocktail Bar and Hookah Lounge From a ‘Real Housewives’ Ex-Fiancé Opens in West Campus

An Austin location of Atlanta-based “fast-casual hookah-hemp lounge” Cru Hemp Lounge is opening in West Campus. Cru comes from Dennis McKinley, the ex-fiancé of Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams, and will open on Saturday, July 17 at 2716 Guadalupe Street, in the former location of the Love Goat bar.

Cru (which is not affiliated with wine bar chain Crú), will serve wings, mac and cheese, a burger, and nachos. True to its location by campus, there’s also a full bar with hangover-inducing sugary concoctions like a drink made with Sour Patch Kids and one with Hennessey, Hypnotiq, and punch.

Cru also offers hookahs loaded with flavored shisha and hemp oil, as well as pre-rolled hemp joints and other CBD-infused products. Guests reserve a hookah for two-hour increments.

Cru, which has become the largest Black-owned nightlife chain and largest hookah lounge chain in the United States, started in Atlanta in 2011, and has since expanded to over 25 locations across the country (including both Dallas and Houston, and a planned location in San Antonio).

The building’s former occupant, Love Goat, closed in early 2020 after almost a decade in business. It was known for cheap drinks and pub games.

• Cru Hemp Lounge [Official]
• Cru Hemp Lounge [Facebook]
• Cru Hemp Lounge [Instagram]