A Troubling Visit to Mike Bong’s Shop, Oakland, CA During a recent visit to Mike Bong’s Shop on International Boulevard in Oakland, I encountered a deeply concerning environment that raises serious questions about safety, professionalism, and basic management. While the shop appears to specialize in smoking accessories and related products, the in-store atmosphere was far from what one would expect of a legitimate retail business. Several individuals were lingering inside. Some clearly under the influence, with visible signs of drug use, including the open use of crack pipes. At one point, a woman began smoking inside the store without any objection or intervention from the clerk. The employee on duty stayed behind a protective glass enclosure for most of my visit, seemingly indifferent to the disruptive and possibly illegal activity taking place just a few feet away. At one point, he appeared to be involved in a questionable transaction with another customer. His demeanor toward paying customers was equally dismissive and disrespectful, leaving the impression that customer service is not a priority here. The store itself is cramped and overcrowded with glass walls, making it difficult to move or browse comfortably. Mike Bong’s Shop feels unsafe, unprofessional, and poorly managed. Between the loitering, open drug use, and lack of staff oversight, this is not a place that inspires confidence or comfort. The surrounding area also feels unsafe, with individuals frequently loitering on both sides of the street. Visitors should exercise caution when approaching or entering this location.

It’s in a tough spot and with that comes thick skin so if your scared easily and your someone that looks like they are judging others then yes it is dangerous for you! but; for those that know what it is; it is what it is and ain’t no one going to change that unless they cleaning up around here and you all know the people are not going to even think twice about cleaning up our cities they to busy trying to kill us off or make ourselves kill each other!