Just steps from Grand Central Station, Torches NYC has become the a new Manhattan home for one of California’s most buzzed-about pre-roll brands: Sluggers. And if the early response is any indication, New York is more than ready for the heat.

When Honeysuckle pulled up to Torches this week, the energy was already lit. Staff members were unpacking fresh Sluggers inventory—again—after the first drop sold out almost instantly.

“You’re gonna get lit and you’re gonna flow,” one budtender laughed, holding up the signature airtight Sluggers pack like a trophy. “These flew. People grabbed them, tried them, came back, and we had to reorder. That’s always the sign.”

A New York Welcome: Sold Out and Reordered

Torches’ team couldn’t stop talking about the Minis—the compact blunts Sluggers has become famous for.

“Oh yeah, I’ve had the little mini blunts,” S told us. “Loved it. I was floating. Customers have been loving it. We had to reorder because we sold out.”

Part of the appeal is the packaging itself—clean, portable, unmistakably West Coast, yet perfect for the rhythm of New York.

“I love that it comes in a pack with that airtight feel,” another budtender said. “Little Mentos vibes. But the card inside? That’s the best part. You get the stats, the terps, the information on how you’re going to feel. Everything is right there before you even spark.”

The Strains Lighting Up Manhattan

The Torches drop includes three flavor-forward hitters—each chosen because they pair perfectly with NYC’s pace, personality, and palette:

  • New York Diesel – An homage to the city itself. Classic, gassy, nostalgic.
  • Trainwreck – A fan favorite, especially because—yes—the red packaging fits perfectly with that “train red” aesthetic buzzing through the shop.
  • Rose – Smooth, floral, crowd-pleasing, and a surprising favorite among Torches regulars.

“We’re floating over here,” the staff told us. “New York Diesel, Trainwreck, Rose… you really can’t go wrong.”

Why Torches? Why Now?

In a city where every corner store sells something pretending to be craft, Torches has carved out a lane by curating brands that actually move culture. Being steps from Grand Central means they serve commuters, locals, connoisseurs, and curious visitors in equal measure—and Sluggers fits right in.

This activation marks Sluggers’ first major push into New York’s legal market, and Torches is staking its claim early as the home base.

“You can’t find these anywhere else,” the crew said. “If you want that real Sluggers experience, come here.”

The Verdict: New York Has Entered Its Mini-Blunt Era

Between the fast sellout, the glowing staff reviews, and the built-in cult following, Sluggers has officially made its New York debut—and Torches NYC is the epicenter.

Whether you're grabbing something discreet before a night out, looking for a fresh twist on pre-rolls, or wanting to see why the West Coast has been buzzing about Sluggers for years, Midtown just got its new must-visit.

Pull up to Torches. Tap in with Sluggers. Get lit. And flow.

For more visit For more, visit  Slugger NYC and Instagram.