About George
George Martorano, a name synonymous with the Philadelphia underworld, has lived a life shrouded in mystery and controversy. From his early days in the city's gritty neighborhoods to his eventual rise as a key figure in organized crime, Martorano's story is one of ambition, survival, and the consequences of a life lived on the fringes of society.
The Hip Hemp Cafe is Philadelphia’s first CBD-focused lounge, founded by George Martorano. Martorano, a cannabis advocate, served 32 years in prison after being sentenced to life without parole as a first-time non-violent drug offender in 1984. His case became infamous due to the severity of his punishment, which was later overturned through prison reform under President Obama.
While in prison, Martorano became a prolific writer, authoring over 30 books and mentoring fellow inmates. After his release, he turned his focus to advocating for cannabis reform and opening the Hip Hemp Cafe. The cafe offers a space where people can relax and enjoy hemp-based products, contributing to the normalization and destigmatization of cannabis use. Martorano’s mission extends beyond business, as he continues to promote prison reform and cannabis education.