We’re living in a golden age of “functional glass art.” That’s a fancy phrase for bongs, pipes, bubblers, and dab rigs that not only get you mega-medicated, but they also look like something that belongs in a museum. Whether you’re just buying your first $5 dugout, or ready to spring for a $5,000 piece, Big Al’s in Berkeley is the go-to spot in the East Bay. The shop has been around forever, and while it resists a lot of marketing efforts, it has a legendary word-of-mouth reputation. All your small smoking needs can be met at Big Al’s, but expect to be humbled by the sheer cost and beauty of much of the glass on sale. Nice pipes aren’t cheap. Cheap pipes aren’t nice.
.Best Heady Glass
Big Al's Smoke and Gifts