If you reside in, or are lucky to be visiting The Big Apple, why not plan some time out to visit some of the amazing choice of hookah lounges in NYC, some of which are famous the world over? There are so many to choose from across this sprawling city, so we’ve made the job easier for you and picked out 14 of the best for you. We’ve got something for everyone, so no matter which part of town you’re staying, or what kind of experience you’re after so whether that’s hookah lounge restaurant in Manhattan, or shisha cafe in Brooklyn, we’ve got the best of the bunch right here.
If you’re new to hookah, many of these places will also be really helpful in guiding you through the menu and how to use the hookah pipes, but if you’re unsure and have a few questions you might want to check out our other blog to find out more what is hookah smoking. You could also explore the ‘best hookah pipes of 2023‘ if you’re in the market for a new pipe.
1.Pergola
36 WEST 28TH STREET NEW YORK, NY 10001
212-679-4842
For a luxurious experience, visit Pergola. For dining, co*cktails, music and, of course, hookah. Serving up the usual cold starters and grilled meats, you can also enjoy pizza, pasta, salads, and a very tasty dessert menu including chocolate layer cake and baklava cheesecake! With a really great co*cktail menu, Pergola is not to be missed. It can get quite lively in the evening with live music for entertainment, so be sure to come early to get settled in. Though be sure to book as without a reservation you might be disappointed.
2.La Sultana Cafe
124 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
212-228-7678
This East Village hookah bar has a laid back, cosy and bohemian feel. La Sultana Cafe offers a truly global menu with shisha from all parts of the world, a tasty menu of sharing platters and and a range of soft and alcoholic beverages including both hot and cold teas from Turkey, Morocco, Egypt and beyond.
3.Aziza
45 1st Ave., New York, NY 10003
212-777-3778
This firm shisha favourite boasts an extensive choice of flavoured and fruity tobacco. Open till 2am, this middle Eastern themed shisha bar is more homely than party-party with its traditional feel, comfortable cushioned banquettes and enameled Moroccan style side tables.
4.Falucka
162 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012
212-777-4555
Another middle easterned-themed club, Falucka is that party vibe you were after. With guest DJ’s playing a mix of dance music styles, if that doesn’t get you moving the belly dancers will! With a mixed crowd, expect a good-looking West Village crowd all out to enjoy Falucka’s menu of punchy co*cktails, extensive hookah menu and towering table top pipes.
5.Desert Rain Lounge107-29 Metropolitan Ave, Queens, NY 11375
929-386-0057
Forest Hills favourite the Desert Rain Lounge has a relaxed and spacious feel all in a colourful and tastefully decorated setting. With a broad menu of unusually named smokes, be sure to visit during the summer months as their rear patio makes for the perfect al-fresco shisha experience. Whilst food might not be Think fresh fruit bowls like pineapple, grapefruit and citrus, plus ice pipes and a choice of bases like milk and Red Bull.
6.The House of Hookah
39-07 Bell Blvd, Queens, NY 11361
347 989-4640
Queens based House of Hookah has been around since 2017. You can visit for a drink or dinner, and they can cater for small or large groups. Offering an extensive selection of 50+ smokes there is much to choose from including juice bases and lolli-tips. They also have an outdoor area that is covered over to allow for extra seating, no matter the weather. Well worth a visit.
7.Sahara Hookah Lounge
4026 10th Ave, New York, NY 10034
(646) 882-0169
If you’re after a more upscale and stylish hookah bar, Sahara Hookah Lounge is perfect. Serving the East Village since 1991, you might come here as much for the hookah as the food – their menu is great with Latin American options to choose from. Open from 5pm till 2am most nights, and 3am Friday and Saturday, it’s the perfect place to come for a late night experience. Plus they have full glass hookah, something we’re very keen on here at Fumo!
8.Al-Nassr Lounge
271-21 Union Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040-1531
347-833-0613
The Al-Nassr Lounge is one of those ‘hole in the wall’ destinations, but also one of the most popular hookah bars to be found in New York City. With a great selection of co*cktails and delicious food options, and both indoor / outdoor seating, Al-Nassr is ideal if you’re heading out East and want somewhere cozy to settle in for a few hours.
9.Babylon Hookah Cafe
208 E 34th St, New York City, NY 10016-4848
212-933-0912
Offering Middle Eastern eats, a great range of co*cktails and solid choice of Hookah, Babylon Hookah also pushes live music with regular DJ’s and belly dancers on select nights. The atmosphere is fun and vibrant, perfect for a mid-town hang out with friends especially if you’re in the mood to party.
10. Sheesha Lounge NYC
131-17 Liberty Ave, Queens, NY 11419
718-845-1285
Open 7 days per week, from 2 till 2, Sheesha Lounge NYC is perfect for those who want to enjoy some delicious food along with their hookah smoking experience. With an exotic atmosphere, they have a wide variety of Middle Eastern cuisine to choose from, as well as an impressive drinks menu and as you’d expect a wide range of hookah flavors to enjoy.
11.Mystic Hookah Lounge
973 Old Country Rd, Westbury, NY, 11590516 385 2320Setting new standards for Long Island’s hookah scene, Mystic Hookah Lounge takes the best of Middle East influence and combines it with New York party chic. With breathtaking decor including a coral reef fish tank and VIP area, Mystic has great service and a good range of premium hookah. Touted as an alternative to the bar/club scene you will have an authentic Moroccan experience whilst being able to escape the hustle and bustle of NYC life. They even have the occasional belly dancer that you might be lucky enough to coincide with.
12.Kazuza
107 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
212-505-9300
Alphabet City Kazuza is where Middle Eastern theming sets our your evening for a truly authentic shisha experience. With a really choice selection of unique flavor hookah like white peach and cappuccino, Kazuza has a great vibe with live DJ’s and belly dancers to set things off on party night. Launched in 2009, Kazuza is open right through till 3am all week, and 4am on Friday and Saturday.
13.Hayaty
103 Avenue a, New York City, NY 10009-6104
212-388-0588
East Village Hayaty is another NY shisha bar that offers not only great hookah, but live performing belly dancers. They also have themed nights some with a Caribbean vibe, others going back to the ’90s. With a fully stocked bar, and extensive choice of smokes Hayaty is perfect for East Village entertainment and a high quality shisha night with friends no matter what vibe you’re after.
14.Elite Hookah Lounge & Cafe
252-09 Union Turnpike Glen Oaks, Ny 11426
917-783-5324
Queen based Elite Hookah Lounge & Cafe is one of those hidden gem venues. It’s a small lounge / cafe serving some very popular yet unusual flavors such as pink chai with white powder, and black rose. With prompt and helpful service, they also serve food though it’s more of a small appetizer style menu – therefore this place is less for dinner and more for drinks / smokes with friends. Definitely worth a visit if you’re on Queen’s side for the night.
