Hookah bars have been around for centuries, and they are continuously gaining traction in the United States and other countries worldwide. With many cities now having several of them, hookah bars offer a unique atmosphere for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying tobacco in a variety of flavors.
So what exactly is a hookah bar?
A hookah bar is where people can gather to smoke flavored tobacco, also known as shisha, from a traditional water pipe or hookah.
From the history of hookah bars to their air quality, there’s a lot to learn. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.
The History of Hookah Bars
Hookah smoking dates back to 15th century India. During the Ottoman Empire, hookah became a popular pastime in the royal courts of the sultans, and the tradition spread to other parts of the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
In the United States, hookah bars began to emerge in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the opening of several bars in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Hookah bars offer an alluring atmosphere and social experience that has become increasingly popular among young adults.
What To Expect at a Hookah Bar
The moment you step into a hookah bar, you’ll be hit with a wave of scented air. If you’re perceptive, you’ll be able to pick out the flavor of the air.
How does hookah work? The device is made up of a base, a pipe, and a hose. The base is usually filled with water, and the pipe has a bowl on top that is filled with tobacco. The heat from charcoal that is placed on top of the tobacco causes the tobacco to smolder and release smoke. This smoke is then drawn through the water, cooled, and inhaled through the hose.
Hookah bars typically offer a variety of flavors so that customers can choose a flavor that suits their taste. The smoke is often flavored with a variety of fruits, spices, and herbs, so the smell is often pleasant and inviting.
People usually sit around in groups, often with drinks and snacks, while they talk and smoke. Hookah bars also often have televisions, music, and sometimes even live entertainment.
A Hookah bar isn’t just a place to get high and socialize. It can also be a place to learn about the culture and history of the various regions where the practice originated.
Many hookah bars employ knowledgeable staff who can provide information about the various shisha flavors, their history, and the culture of the region.
What Do Hookah Bars Look Like?
Hookah bars vary in size, design, and atmosphere depending on the city and the specific bar. However, most hookah bars have a few things in common. They tend to be dimly lit, with comfortable seating and an inviting atmosphere.
Hookah bars typically have a bar area where people can purchase drinks and snacks, as well as a lounge area where people can relax and smoke their hookah.
What Is Served at Hookah Bars?
Hookah bars usually offer a variety of flavored tobacco for people to smoke. These tobaccos come in a variety of flavors, such as apple, strawberry, and mint.
In addition to flavored tobacco, hookah bars also offer a variety of drinks and snacks. These can include alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and mixed drinks, as well as non-alcoholic beverages, such as tea, coffee, and soda. Snacks can include chips, pretzels, and other light snacks.
Some hookah bars also have oxygen available for smoking. If you haven’t smoked oxygen before, it’s basically the normal air that we breathe in, but it’s scented to make it more pleasant.
People started smoking oxygen because of air pollution in urban cities, but now it has become a recreational activity. Oxygen smokers claim it helps with migraines and hangovers and boosts energy, although there’s little or no scientific evidence to back up these claims.
What Is the Air Quality Like in a Hookah Bar?
The air quality in a hookah bar is usually very good. Hookah bars are well-ventilated, and most have air filters that help to keep the air clean. The smoke produced by the hookah is filtered through the water in the hookah, which helps to reduce the amount of smoke in the air.
However, it can vary depending on how many customers are smoking and how well-ventilated the space is. If a hookah bar is properly ventilated, the air will be clean and odorless. However, if the bar is crowded or poorly ventilated, the air will be smoky and unpleasant.
How Much Will You Spend at a Hookah Bar?
The cost of a hookah session at a hookah bar can vary depending on the type of hookah and the flavor of tobacco you choose. Generally, a single hookah session can cost between $10 and $30.
If you plan to share it with friends, you may be able to get a discounted rate. Additionally, some hookah bars offer food and drinks, which may be included in the cost of the hookah session or may be an additional cost. If you are ordering food or drinks from the bar, you should plan to spend an additional $5 to $20.
Hookah Bar Etiquette
Be Respectful: Respect other patrons and the staff at the hookah bar. Be aware of your volume and be mindful of the conversations you have.
Follow the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the hookah bar’s rules and regulations. This includes no smoking indoors, no alcohol, and no drugs.
Tip the Staff: You can tip the staff when you leave. This is an important way to show your appreciation for their services.
Use a Hookah Tip and Share the Hose: A tip is a small plastic piece you place at the end of your hose to prevent the spread of germs. It’s only respectful to use a tip every time it’s your turn to smoke. It’ll ensure you get the most hygienic hookah experience.
If you’re smoking with friends, try not to be selfish with the hookah. Pass the hose around and smoke in turns. You can all agree on the number of minutes per person.
Clean Up After Yourself: Hookah bars can get very crowded, so try to be mindful of your mess. Throw away your trash, clean up any spilled liquids, and put away your supplies.
Be Patient: Hookah bars can get crowded, so be patient when waiting for your turn. Don’t cut in line or try to rush the process.
Watch Your Language: Be mindful of your language and avoid using offensive language.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been brainstorming the next hangout for your friends, then a hookah bar might just be what you need. Most hookah bars require that people be 18 or older to enter, and smoking is usually not allowed in the bar. Be respectful and follow the rules.
