Openings: Bellanova on 9th Street

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy

Bellanova recently opened at 331 E. Ninth St. between First Avenue and Second Avenue. 

The licensed cannabis dispensary has a noticeably different look and feel from some of the neighborhood's other shops. There are no guards at the entrance or mandatory checks before entering. 

The narrow, brightly lit space features blond wood throughout, with a focus on higher-end products.

Below, Yasmine Bernard, shift lead...

Owner Matthew Hennessy (below) said the idea was to create something more relaxed.

"We want people to feel welcome," he said. "The space is warm, inviting and natural, true to the roots of nature."

Hennessy also has longtime neighborhood ties. He grew up on 10th Street and skateboarded at the Tompkins Square Park TF under the auspices of the late Harold Hunter. He still lives nearby. 

Elizabeth McGrath of Corner Bistro is a co-owner of Bellanova. 

And perhaps not surprisingly, given McGrath's well-known affection for dogs, the shop is canine-friendly.

"We love dogs," Hennessy said. "Bring all the dogs!" 

Bellanova is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.