Whats your excuse?

[Kowabunga]

All the owners I know absolutely detest customers who do this, but i can imagine the type of shithole that would be willing to risk arrest to discuss illegal activities with a random stranger.

Never ever a discussion of illegal activity. Who'd answer that line of questioning anyway.
So many new shops. Can't see any reason to go and have a look.
Besides, every time you walk into any type of shop, is there a "rule" you must buy? No.
I don't do this at any reputable shop, but in the many pop up shops we see with low pricing. I think it's reasonable. Is there a shower. Is it young girls or older girls. What nationalities. What's the "vibe" of the shop: clean, nice rooms, good furniture, appears well run, etc.
I don't think that's unreasonable.