Buddy's Smoke & Vape

Buddy's Smoke & Vape has earned itself a strong name in Mesa, and it's easy to see why once you've spent a little time there. Ask anyone who shops here and the conversation usually turns to Dustin, who has a reputation for chatting while he helps you track down exactly what you came for and never rushing you out the door. He'll happily walk you through how something works if you ask, which regulars appreciate. The owners, Nino and Elizabeth, get their own share of praise too.

One local told us she calls ahead to make sure Elizabeth is working before she makes the drive, and that if Nino doesn't have what you're after and it's available, he'll get it in for you. The shelves here cover a lot of ground. You'll find cigarettes, cigars, vapes and a wide range of e-liquid and vape juice, plus hookah and shisha for the hookah crowd. On the glass side there's a solid pick of pipes and water pipes, along with the rig setups and hardware folks come in for, and all the everyday extras like rolling papers and accessories.

One shopper mentioned outfitting a full setup and staying comfortably inside the budget they walked in with, which tells you plenty about the value. They even keep sodas and drinks on hand, and there's easy parking out front. Price is a big part of the word around Mesa on this place. People who shop here swear by the competitive tags, and more than one regular has pointed out that Buddy's runs friendlier prices than the shop across the street selling the same gear.

The owner has been known to work with you if you're short, which goes a long way. Locals are a little split on one or two visits, but the overwhelming take is a warm, knowledgeable crew and fair deals. As one regular put it, "A+ shop." If you're looking for a friendly smoke shop in Mesa, Buddy's is worth the stop.