The hookah bar is the one place where smoking is permitted in public, covered, indoor spaces. We don’t understand the legality behind it (though they’re required to be tobacco free), but we recognize the appeal. Sit back, relax, and take a few hauls at these sweet shisha lounges around Toronto…
Sheesha Lounge
The real Turkish experience, with a chicken parm sandwich on the side. Sheesha Lounge has a serious selection of fruit-based and herbal smokeables, but it’s their quality that’s worth noting. Regular flavours, like double apple and strawberry, start at $16 dollars, while VIP flavours, like peach mint and jolly rancher, go for $18. But it doesn’t end there: Super VIP Shisha will run you $24.99, and uses ingredients like real fruit, lemon juice, and distilled water. They supposedly last 50 percent longer. You’ll need the lengthy haul as they’ve got live belly dancing on Friday and Saturday and backgammon boards and cards for every table.
Shishalicious
An alternative to a night out at the bar, they claim. Grab a few pieces of sweet baklava and an ice cream cone to go along with your smoke. Break out the board games or a deck of cards. Voila! You’ve got yourself sorted for an entertaining night out.
Awtash
Located just west of Bathurst on College, Awtash fits the profile of a plush Persian café. Colorful beaded and silk pillows, comfortable couches, and dark wood envelope you as you sip on exotic teas and freshly made juices alongside your nargila. They’ve also got an extensive cocktail and beer list and offer bottle service for those looking to ball out Piranshahr style.
EFS
The garden’esque King Street al fresco occupies more of the swank, club-crawler aesthetic than other hookah-focused bars. One may request a large, elaborate looking water pipe at each of their cabana style booths. For a $50 fee for setup and first smoke, the price tag will go well with your Versace shoes.
Starbuzz Lounge & Grill
Wanna get down with smoketown on the Danforth? If for no other reason than to meet The Sultan of Smoke Bubbles and his off-camera crew, it’s worth sauntering into this largely mysterious east-end establishment. Of course, they also have a wicked candy selection.
What are some of your favourite hookah bars in Toronto? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.