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Dinner + Hookah?

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Hello hounds,
Today's scenario is a birthday dinner for ~10, someplace that translates with relative ease to an after-dinner drinks place. Not night-clubby; rather, someplace chill where a bunch of friends can hang out, have drinks, and still be able to hear each other speak.

So I was thinking a hookah bar perhaps (birthday girl in question loves her hookah), but one that has decent fare has eluded me thus far in the city. Also open to other ideas...thanks in advance!

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  1. Have you tried Sahara East in EV? They do serve food, but I've never eaten there.

    1. If belly dancing isn't too intrusive, I've been meaning to try Casa La Femme. Most other places with shisha tend to offer loud entertainment, so sitting outside at Sahara East would be the most quiet option, though not necessarily the most delicious.

      1 Reply
      1. re: JungMann

        Hmmmm...this is an interesting idea. I think belly dancing would be not only non-intrusive, but a bonus!

      2. What about Le Souk in the East Village?

        1 Reply
        1. re: Avalondaughter

          The EV place may have closed, maybe someone can confirm. But there is also one on LaGuardia.

        2. You might want to consider going to Astoria. Post your question on the outer boroughs board.

          3 Replies
          1. re: gutsofsteel

            i 2nd this. hookah in astoria is muchh cheaper than in manhattan. i find astoria excels in greek food.
            theres also a few hookah bars few 1st and 1st avenue. I think the one i use to go to a lot was cozy. It was expensive and they charge u 50 dollars or so if they catch u bringing in drinks from outside. if u do cozy katz is nearby but not exactly a restaurant but it is a spot where 10 friends can just chill.

            1. re: daffyduck

              It's true, of course...but try dragging ten fussy Manhattanites off the island on a Saturday night :(

              I'm thinking of abandoning the hookah idea and going with JungMann's idea of belly dancers instead...although Casa la Femme is perhaps a bit pricey for us.

              1. re: daffyduck

                Hookahs are Egyptian...go to one of the good Egyptian places in Astoria. Mombar, Kabab Cafe, Sabry's...then go hang out at one of the several hookah places on Steinway St....