A Center City hookah-smoking enthusiast recently explained to me that the cigarette ruined the good name of tobacco. Oh sure, sucking on a tobacco bong is hardly healthier than snuffing out Marlboro Lights one after the next. But it's the experience that makes all the difference: the illicit-like digs of an opium den, leisurely 45-minute smoke sessions, and sweet flavors and aromas that seem more akin to breakfast cereal than late-night toking. With an impending smoking ban looming, some say hookah bars will be exempt, like in New York and L.A. That remains to be seen, but in the mean time, check out one or all of these worthwhile haunts where you just may fall under the heady spell of the hookah.
London Grill
For decades London Grill has held court on this Fairmount corner a stone's throw from Eastern State Penitentiary. Neighborhood folks and suburban fans return time and again for consistent cuisine and a convivial bar scene. But now Wednesday nights brings Deep Note, a melange of laid back but up-tempo tunes commingling with the faint scent of hookah smoke lying light in the air. From 9pm - 1am, partake in this Middle-Eastern tradition over a cocktail or two. The experience costs $10 for two or $12 for three to four tokers, but at the same time, will take you out of the everyday.
Byblos Restaurant & Bar
The Mediterranean meets the Middle East at Center City's multipurpose lunchtime to late-night haunt that stands out for its upbeat and clubby pulse that ranges from world-beats to hip-hop once dinner has ceased and DJs turn up the wattage. Hookah here can be enjoyed every night of the week, but come on Thursday (10pm - 2am) for free hookah (with coupon) in flavors of rose, jasmin, apple and strawberry. Hookah here cost $20 otherwise.
Shouk & Sheesa Lounge
After feasting on a selection of moderately priced small plates of Middle Eastern faves such as cous cous, falafel and pungent hummus, head upstairs in this bright and modern space for late-night lounging and hookah smoking after 10pm made perfect in these Arabian-tent like environs. Hookah flavors like strawberry, apple, melon and mango are offered and the cost for two will set you back $12. Shouk's lively bar scene has added to the appeal of this Queen Village corner (also home to Beau Monde) now with a full liquor license in play at this one-time BYO.
622 S. Sixth St., Philadelphia, 215.627.3344.
Fez
One of the original Middle Eastern options in Center City, this Moroccan favorite known equally for its belly dancers as its tented, other-world ambience sets the scene for escape. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday brings on the dancing girls while hookah can be enjoyed free for patrons who partake in Fez's eight-course menu ($25) including cous cous, salads, fresh fruit, chicken, beef and mint tea. A vegetarian option is also offered with the same hookah deal. But smokers with light appetites may simply purchase a post-meal pipe for $20.
