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The 15 Best Hookah Lounges in San Francisco

For those seeking a relaxing and social smoking experience in the vibrant city of San Francisco, a visit to a hookah lounge is a must. These establishments offer a unique atmosphere where patrons can enjoy flavorful shisha while mingling with friends or meeting new people.

Whether you're a seasoned hookah enthusiast or a first-time visitor, finding the best hookah lounge in San Francisco can make all the difference in your experience. With a variety of options to choose from, it's important to consider factors such as ambiance, quality of shisha, pricing, and customer service.

Whether you're looking for a laid-back hangout spot or a lively party destination, San Francisco has a hookah lounge to suit your preferences. Explore our list of the top 15 hookah lounges in the city to find your perfect match.

How this guide is ordered

Our San Francisco editors picked these businesses citywide, giving priority to a reputation earned over time, details we have verified and strong, consistent work. Lists are revisited regularly, and we act on readers' notes about closures and moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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Kava Lounge#1
What stands out
  • Tranquil and relaxing experience with traditional and pacific gold kava options.

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere with a variety of games and artwork.

  • High-quality products with friendly and helpful staff.

  • Unique and relaxing alternative to alcohol with delicious kava cocktails.

Kava Lounge

4.6304 reviews
901 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Kava Lounge offers a unique Lounge experience in San Francisco. Customers can enjoy a variety of services and features such as Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, and Live music. The lounge also provides a selection of offerings including Alcohol, Cocktails, and Food. Customers can relax in the welcoming environment that caters to all, with options for Seating and Wi-Fi. The business is LGBTQ+ friendly and welcomes Dogs.

Recent Reviews from customers highlight the following key points:

Zam Zam#2
What stands out
  • Celebrated for strong pours of classic drinks such as Manhattans and martinis.

  • Customers enjoy the old-school ambiance and attentive bartenders who craft delicious cocktails.

  • The bar is rich in history and features a beautiful mural behind the bar, adding to its charm.

  • Individuals appreciate the cozy and casual atmosphere that Zam Zam provides.

Zam Zam

4.5420 reviews
1633 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Zam Zam is a renowned cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. With a rating of 4.5 stars from 420 reviews, it's evident that this bar offers an exceptional experience to its customers.

Dive into Zam Zam for a taste of classic cocktails, a glimpse into its fascinating history, and a memorable evening in the heart of San Francisco.

Arabian Nights#3
What stands out
  • Delicious food, especially Shish Taouk and falafel

  • Great outdoor hookah lounge and mint tea

  • Ample seating, simple menu, and flawless service

  • Beautiful decor, fantastic baklava, and a good wine selection

Arabian Nights

4.4555 reviews
2345 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Arabian Nights is a captivating Lebanese restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a variety of exquisite dishes that will transport you to the Middle East. The establishment provides a range of service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in to cater to all preferences.

One of the key highlights of Arabian Nights is its fast service, making it an ideal spot for those on the go. Additionally, customers rave about the great coffee and extensive tea selection, perfect for unwinding after a delicious meal.

Customers frequently visit Arabian Nights for both lunch and dinner as it is popular for solo dining and offers a cozy atmosphere for a relaxing experience. The Lebanese restaurant is also well-known for its alcohol offerings including beer, cocktails, wine, and comforting food options like small plates and vegetarian dishes.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Experience the charm of Lebanese cuisine at Arabian Nights and indulge in a culinary journey like no other!

Buddha Lounge#4
What stands out
  • Great old bar remodeled in the past few years with a beloved bartender.

  • Super real and upfront place, cleaner than your Instagram feed.

  • Very clean and vibing atmosphere with the friendliest bartender.

  • Unwarranted rude behavior reported from one customer experience.

Buddha Lounge

4.4414 reviews
901 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Buddha Lounge is a beloved bar located in Chinatown, San Francisco. Known for its great cocktails and fast service, this spot offers a casual and cosy atmosphere. Customer reviews rave about the experienced bartender who has been there for nearly 30 years, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.

Sunshine Coast Smokeshop#5
What stands out
  • Customers love the friendly and knowledgeable staff who are willing to go the extra mile to help.

  • The shop carries a wide selection of products, including unique and sought-after items.

  • Visitors appreciate the competitive prices and excellent service provided by this family-owned business.

Sunshine Coast Smokeshop

4.826 reviews
1312 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Sunshine Coast Smokeshop is a well-known tobacco shop located in San Francisco, CA. Customers can enjoy a variety of services and features, including kerbside pickup, delivery, in-store shopping, and same-day delivery. The shop is proud to offer a wheelchair-accessible entrance for all customers.

With a rating of 4.8 based on 26 reviews, Sunshine Coast Smokeshop is a top choice for anyone looking for quality products and exceptional customer service. So, come visit this hidden gem on Haight Street and experience it for yourself!

Pasha SF#6
What stands out
  • Great place for share plates, hookah, and drinks with reasonable prices.

  • Excellent Turkish and Mediterranean food, with attentive service and great ambience.

  • Amazing food quality, friendly service, and recommended cocktails.

  • Awesome spot for lunch, hookah, and hanging out with friends, delicious food and smooth hookah options.

Pasha SF

4.5111 reviews
673 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Pasha SF is a Mediterranean restaurant located in San Francisco that offers a range of service options including kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is popular for lunch and dinner, offering a variety of dishes like lamb chops and beef flatbread. Customers have highlighted the fast service and the casual and trendy atmosphere.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Laguna Cafe#7
What stands out
  • Impeccable service, attentive staff, and a great selection of flavors.

  • Unique hookah options like the Watermelon hookah and delicious food.

  • Exceeding expectations with top-notch hookahs, attentive staff, and a pleasant ambiance.

  • Great hookah taste, friendly staff, good music, and tasty food options like the fries.

Laguna Cafe

4.2524 reviews
1821 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Laguna Cafe is a vibrant hookah bar located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a range of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, ensuring customers can enjoy their experience however they prefer. The accessibility feature of a wheelchair-accessible entrance also makes this establishment inclusive to all.

With a solid rating of 4.2, it's no surprise that Laguna Cafe has received rave reviews. Here are some key points from customers:

The positive feedback highlights the welcoming atmosphere, quality hookah options, and exceptional service that Laguna Cafe consistently delivers. With such glowing reviews, it's clear why this hookah bar is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill#8
What stands out
  • This place is a game changer! The hookahs are top-notch, with amazing flavor, massive clouds, and long-lasting sessions.

  • The owners, Joe and Andy, create a chill vibe and treat customers like royalty.

  • The prices are very reasonable, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

  • The ambiance is off the hook, with beautiful setting, high-quality hookahs, good food, and attentive staff - a must-visit spot for hookah lovers.

Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill

4.730 reviews
6192 Mission St, Daly City, CA 94014, United States

Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill is a top-notch hookah bar located in Daly City, CA. With a stellar rating of 4.7, this lounge is a fan favorite among hookah enthusiasts. Customers rave about the exceptional quality of the hookahs, the friendly service, and the inviting atmosphere.

Phone Booth#9
What stands out
  • A customer felt unfairly kicked out by the bartender for being "too animated" despite not causing any trouble.

  • Another customer raved about the welcoming atmosphere, old-school jukebox, and friendly bartender, Liz.

  • One review praised the reasonably priced drinks, cool atmosphere, and friendly service.

  • One patron had a negative experience with the bartender's attitude towards tipping and felt harassed.

Phone Booth

4.3222 reviews
1398 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Phone Booth is a popular bar located in San Francisco, US, known for its fast service, great beer selection, and great cocktails. The bar offers a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Customer reviews highlight:

With a rating of 4.3 stars, Phone Booth continues to attract customers with its unique offerings and cozy environment. Whether you're looking for a relaxing night out or a place to socialize with friends, this bar has something for everyone.

Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering#10
What stands out
  • Service was amazing, and the products were top-notch.

  • They provide the best hookahs, and the service is excellent.

  • Having them staff your event guarantees a hit evening with phenomenal flavors and great attention to service.

  • Their customer service is exceptional, and they have extensive knowledge about hookahs.

Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering

5.04 reviews
Broadmoor street, Daly City, CA 94014, United States

Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering is a mobile caterer located in Daly City, CA, that offers a variety of services to make any event memorable. With options like delivery, no-contact delivery, and takeaway, they cater to all your needs. Their commitment to accessibility is evident through features like wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating, making sure everyone can enjoy their services.

Customers rave about the experience they had with Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering. Some of the key points highlighted in their reviews include:

The stellar 5.0 rating from customers speaks volumes about the quality of service provided by Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering. With a team dedicated to making every event special, they are the go-to choice for all your hookah catering needs.

Lava Restaurant & Lounge#11
What stands out
  • I really liked this bar/restaurant, great place for whisky enthusiasts with a variety of options. The atmosphere is warm and intimate, perfect for a quiet night out.

  • Decent food selection, friendly staff, and a nice overall experience. The spring rolls were not the freshest, but the garlic potatoes were tasty.

  • Excellent venue for events and parties with delicious catering options. The bar setting and lounge provide a fantastic ambiance for celebrations.

  • Fantastic ramen for lunch with customizable options. The surf and turf or dumpling ramen are recommended choices.

Lava Restaurant & Lounge

4.3126 reviews
527 Bryant St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Lava Restaurant & Lounge is a trendy bar in San Francisco that offers a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying great cocktails and fast service. It is known for its wide range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, spirits, and wine. The restaurant also serves delicious food, with options for dine-in, takeaway, and catering.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Fog City Hookah Lounge#12
What stands out
  • Customers highly recommend this place for its relaxing environment, reasonable prices, and great hookah flavors.

  • Guests praise the live music, belly dancing, and overall ambience of the lounge.

  • The owner, Bobby, receives high praise for being genuine, caring, and creating a safe space for all customers.

Fog City Hookah Lounge

4.3105 reviews
7440 Mission St, Daly City, CA 94014, United States

Fog City Hookah Lounge is a popular hookah bar located in Daly City, CA. This hidden gem offers a variety of flavors, exceptional service, and a chill vibe for customers to enjoy.

Some reviews highlight the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, making patrons feel right at home. If you're in the area, consider checking out Fog City Hookah Lounge for a memorable and enjoyable evening.

Marrakech Restaurant, Bar & Hookah Lounge#13
What stands out
  • Beautiful ambience, friendly staff, and well-crafted hookah service.

  • Attentive service, unique atmosphere, and delicious food.

  • Wonderful hookah, food, belly dancing, but be mindful of flashing lights if sensitive.

  • Amazing food, strong cocktails, friendly staff, and comfortable seating.

Marrakech Restaurant, Bar & Hookah Lounge

3.9505 reviews
419 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Marrakech Restaurant, Bar & Hookah Lounge is a captivating Moroccan restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services like Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, making it a convenient choice for customers. The establishment is known for its fast service and vibrant atmosphere, creating a unique and memorable dining experience. Customers have raved about the delicious cuisine, attentive staff, and entertaining belly dancing performances. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Overall, Marrakech Restaurant, Bar & Hookah Lounge promises a delightful experience blending exquisite flavors with cultural entertainment, perfect for a night out or special celebration.

724 Hookah#14
What stands out
  • The hookah lounge has a vibrant ambiance with hip hop music and cool lighting, creating a bar/club-like experience.

  • The hookahs are packed with flavor and deliver an incredible experience, making it a favorite spot for hookah enthusiasts.

  • Customers appreciate the personalized service, with the manager ensuring a comfortable lounge and keeping an eye on hookah maintenance.

724 Hookah

4.0291 reviews
724 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

724 Hookah is a bustling hookah bar located in San Francisco, CA. The establishment offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors alike. Customers rave about the friendly staff and the extensive selection of hookah flavors available.

With a rating of 4.0 stars, gathered from 291 reviews, it's clear that 724 Hookah is a beloved spot for hookah lovers in the area. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or enjoy a night out with friends, 724 Hookah promises an experience like no other.

Pride of the Mediterranean#15

Pride of the Mediterranean

3.0309 reviews
1761 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Pride of the Mediterranean is a Mediterranean restaurant located in San Francisco, CA that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With options for Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, customers have flexibility in how they enjoy their meals.

The restaurant is known for its Fast service and Great tea selection, making it a popular choice for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining. The atmosphere is described as Casual and Cosy, catering to a diverse crowd including groups, tourists, and university students.

Customer reviews praise the delicious food, attentive service, and unique dining experience offered at Pride of the Mediterranean. Some highlights include the stuffed eggplant and zucchini dishes, flavorful yogurt sauce, and exquisite cheese and honey pastry dessert. The variety of hookah flavors, lamb shish kebab, and vegan options are also highly recommended.

In summary, customers appreciate the pride and care put into each meal, the welcoming atmosphere, and the variety of options available for dining. With a rating of 3.0 stars, Pride of the Mediterranean continues to attract diners seeking a memorable Mediterranean dining experience.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Kava Lounge 4.6304
#2Zam Zam 4.5420
#3Arabian Nights 4.4555
#4Buddha Lounge 4.4414
#5Sunshine Coast Smokeshop 4.826
#6Pasha SF 4.5111
#7Laguna Cafe 4.2524
#8Lava Hookah Lounge & Grill 4.730
#9Phone Booth 4.3222
#10Shisha Brothers Hookah Catering 5.04
#11Lava Restaurant & Lounge 4.3126
#12Fog City Hookah Lounge 4.3105
#13Marrakech Restaurant, Bar & Hookah Lounge 3.9505
#14724 Hookah 4.0291
#15Pride of the Mediterranean 3.0309

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Map of Hookah Lounges in San Francisco

San Francisco is well-known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and hookah lounges are a popular choice for those looking to relax and socialize. With a variety of lounges scattered throughout the city, there are plenty of options for hookah enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite smoke flavors while soaking in the unique atmosphere of each venue.

How to choose Hookah Lounges in San Francisco

  1. Wide selection of shisha flavors.
  2. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.
  3. Knowledgeable staff.
  4. Exotic drink menu.
  5. Outdoor seating options.

Frequently asked questions

What are the operating hours of a typical hookah lounge in San Francisco?

Most hookah lounges in San Francisco typically operate in the evenings, opening around 5:00 PM and closing around 2:00 AM on weekdays. On weekends, they may stay open later, sometimes until 4:00 AM. It's always a good idea to check with the specific hookah lounge you plan on visiting to verify their exact operating hours as they may vary. If you are planning an event outside of these hours, you may be able to rent out the hookah lounge for a private party or special event.

What is the legal age to smoke at a hookah lounge in San Francisco?

In San Francisco, the legal age to smoke at a hookah lounge is 21 years old. This is in accordance with California state law which restricts tobacco use to individuals over the age of 21. To purchase tobacco products or enter a hookah lounge in San Francisco, you will need to provide a valid ID proving you are 21 years old or older. It's important to adhere to these age restrictions to comply with the law and promote responsible tobacco use among adults.

Are there any age restrictions for entering a hookah lounge in San Francisco?

Yes, most hookah lounges in San Francisco have an age restriction of 21 years old to enter. This is due to the fact that tobacco is often served and smoked at these establishments. If you are under the age of 21, you may not be allowed to enter the hookah lounge even if you do not plan on participating in smoking. It's best to check with the specific establishment for their age policy. Some hookah lounges may be able to make exceptions for underage individuals if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. It's always best to call ahead to inquire about their policy.

Do hookah lounges in San Francisco serve alcohol?

Many hookah lounges in San Francisco also serve alcoholic beverages to complement the hookah experience. This can include a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine. It's important to note that the legal drinking age in California is 21 years old, so valid ID will be required to purchase and consume alcohol at these establishments. Some hookah lounges may also offer non-alcoholic beverages for those who do not drink or are looking for alternative options.

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