Very nice chill spot. The cool thing with them is that you will get a different experience depending on the time of day you go. I've gone earlier in the day and the atmosphere was very relaxed and chill. I have also gone later at night and the music is more upbeat (still chill nonetheless). It's obviously way more people at night than during the day. The crowd always seems to be mixed and they allow outside food. They also offer a ice hose which made the pull of the hookah more smooth.... and cooling. I am by no means a hookah expert, I have only done it about 3 times but I would say the hookah (shisha) is good. A few of the employees did inform me that hookah is veeeerrryyy unhealthy for you (lots of nicotine). So understanding that, I do not know that I would indulge in hookah often. They also have frappes, teas, coffee, and some desserts. Many people were playing games (cards etc.) inside. There are also tvs that were showing relevant sports at the time. The employees are very attentive but not overbearing. They always changed out the coals and checked to make sure we were okay. The outside seating area is plentiful and the couches inside or very comfy. The chairs' upholstery need some serious work however. Overall, I enjoyed my visits and will most likely return, even if not for hookah, for the atmosphere and tea. read more

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Hidden gem customer service was top notched very friendly. There are covered seating with fire pits in the tables or you can sit outside without that is just as accommodating. Inside patrons were spaced out accordingly. There wasn't a time someone didn't come and inconspicuously change our coals. Dr Malachi put together a great mix for us will definitely visit again. Prices are quite reasonable. read more

This place is definitely a solid win. Firstly it is way bigger inside then it looks in the front. A TON of seating in the back patio. Secondly they have surprisingly consistent wifi. This is a must if you are coming to do homework or take home work. Third they have all the classic hookah flavors at a very decent price with servers who replace the coals like every 30 minutes on the dot. The smoothies are an odd but very good decision. The oreo cookie frappe is my favorite. Their tea is a must. I get it almost every time. The Arabian mint is a top contender for me. The overall decor is pretty ratchet or outdated but this is more than forgiven with all the other positives. It's really not too bad just think college bar vibe but quiet. The desserts are delicious. I've had the cheese cake. Just know the desserts change and what's on the menu is usually not available completely. Last but not least, the place stays open til 3am 6 days a week is amazing!!! Definitely a great hangout spot and affordable hookah decision you won't regret. read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Watermelon freeze is my favorite - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Came to NC for a wedding and decided to try my luck at 1am to see if anything was open. Not only was the hookah great here, but the service was very good and all of the drinks we ordered came quickly. Turkish coffee was great, mint tea was great and the smoothie was amazing. If you're in Raleigh and looking for a chill spot 10/10 would recommend read more

Visited this place a few weeks back and really enjoyed the whole vibe here. The hookah flavor options are really good and goes well with their coffee menu! Perfect place to chill out with friends with hookah, coffee and bonfire. read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

The only thing that prevented a 5 was that food was not offered. There are dessert and smoothies offered though. A good thing to note is that bringing outside food or drinks didn't seem to be frowned upon. We arrived to watch the NBA Finals and it was pouring raining. We sat out doors under the tents. There are large tv screen facing outside to the patio sitting area. We ordered a hookah and watched the game. The waiters were attentive and busy. They made sure that everyone had coals and or drinks. The music playing outside was modern, urban and what you would want to hear for a young person. They had fire pits on the table tops but they were only used during the fall - winter seasons. It was a Monday night but it was busy which was surprising. There were people of different ages and races no issues! There were even a couple of dogs outside in the mix enjoying themselves as well. read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Great place in the NCSU area to get some great hookah. Really cool place to hangout with family and/or friends. They also over various desserts, teas, and coffee in addition to their large selection of hookah flavors. I've been coming here off and on for many years and they recently remodeled and updated their outdoor area and it is awesome. The last time I visited I came for a graduation party/private event for my friend's daughter and it was a great time. The staff was amazing and although some food my friend prepared beforehand they also grilled kebabs on sight. I'm not sure how private events go because my friend personally knows the owners and staff there, but I'm sure they can give you information if you're interested. They offer a wide variety of flavors as well as different fruit heads to enhance the experience. The staff is very attentive and will keep the coals coming while you enjoy your time there. They are very affordable, which is great considering it's proximity to NCSU and Meredith. They also stay open late night (past 2 AM) which is great as well. Definitely suggest coming here if you already love hookah or if you'd like to try! read more

Loved this place...wen't out with my girls... Their coffee is great too. We sat outside and had the fire on our table, the weather was perfect and fire was amazing. Reasonably priced and great place to hangout with friends. I will definitely go here again! read more

Great affordable smoke that's open late and has a TON of space. We found a seat outside once a person left (self seating) and there are a few people walking around taking orders/cleaning/serving/swapping coals. We waited about 5-10 minutes and could not flag down a server for the life of us and the table was not cleaned off from the previous guests. We finally went to the main cashier where we ordered the Hookah with a couple of waters and were given a slight attitude for not ordering through a waiter (we were in the corner outside in the back in the shade and it was hard to spot us). We gave them our table number paid and tipped at the main cashier and got our hookah a few minutes later. We had to wait for them to bring out a special hose that we ordered (some sort of ice hose) and once that was brought out because they didn't see it on the order they left our table but did not put coals on our hookah. Once everything was said and done it was a cool and chill vibe and after a few more people left the few servers were able to handle the flow better. The place is super affordable and really open and the smoke was great. Would definitely go again (I actually tried going the night after but they were closing ahha). read more

This is a legit middle eastern hookah lounge. No alcohol served which adds to the authenticity. Several choices in tea, served in a small or large pot, piping hot and perfectly brewed. Great ventilation which is essential for a hookah lounge. The indoor space features plush comfortable Naugahyde seating with plenty of room to lay back and chill while smoking your favorite nargile flavor. Our hookah bowl was made of half a grapefruit. We enjoyed the cool smoke and excellent service on the hookah set up. There is a small selection of pastries available. Comfortable outdoor seating with firepits under a tent or other areas sitting outside all together. I give five stars to a place that is a must see when in a particular city or area and Shahrazad is a must see and do. Plan to stay a couple of hours and just relax and unwind. read more

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Don't mistake my three star rating for not liking the place. I've been here quite a many times without checking in, but there are some problems that should be pointed out. As other reviewers have alluded to, there is a problem with racism here. If you're Arab or with a group of Arabs, you're likely to have a much more positive experience than if you're not Arab. I've even seen Arabs get the good coconut carbon coals (the cube shaped coals that are more expensive and impart no flavor to the hookah) while white patrons are given cheap "quick light" coals that do not reach an ideal temperature, burn out quickly, and impart a fuel taste to the hookah. There are, as mentioned by others, real problems with the level of service and maintenance on the hookahs and especially keeping the coals coming throughout the night. Unlike some hookah lounges, this one does not leave tongs so you can't do your own coal maintenance between fresh coals. I really enjoy the tea options here, definitely check that out. The coffee is great, too. I've had problems ordering food from the Arab staff. I ask them to describe some of the items and they just have no idea. I'm not sure if it's ignorance of the products or of the English language. It works better if you just point at something in the display case that you like, and hope that all turns out okay. They've got WiFi and it works pretty well. Finding electricity for a laptop, eh, not so much. It's okay to do work here in the afternoon if you've got a good battery. There are TV's, and they are usually turned to Arab music videos and live performances. It's usually pretty entertaining, but a bit loud. You're not going to have intimate conversations here when the TV's are up. The whole place changes at around 8PM. The place fills up with a mixed clientele, perhaps mostly Arab, and you get to see a lot of groups of friends engaging in passionate conversations, playing games, and having a good time. Don't be surprised if you show up at 8:30 or 9PM and there is no place for you to sit. Also don't be surprised if your car gets dinged or blocked in; the parking lot can get a little crazy when the place fills up. If they were able to route out the very obvious racism in the staff, bring up the level of customer service, turn down the TV volume to a background level, I'd be very happy to offer four stars. Earning five stars would take a more substantial investment. Hey, let's clear out the racism and treat everyone like friends. That would be a fantastic start. One more thing, when you come in here, you're coming to an oasis of Arab culture. Be respectful of that when you plan a trip here. read more

The hookah was definitely good but the service not so much. We had to ask for coal initially and no one came to check on us. Also they did not offer to clean to coal after it started getting ashy. We weren't given any tongs either. No one came to replace the coal either. The place looked a little dirty. Probably won't be returning. read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Pretty empty for a big place and still waiting for our orders to be taken! - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

My girlfriends and I came here to celebrate a birthday. We liked the vibe of the place, but decided to sit outside by the fire tables, because it was too hot and stuffy inside. The waitress was very attentive, and had great suggestions for the hookah flavors. The had good music playing, and overall the evening was enjoyable. read more

I don't know where to start. I brought my love here and I propose to her underneath The rope light the owner it's such a good person now we have a baby together from that night. All I can tell you is try it read more

I have had shisha all over the world and I have never placed an order and have it ready for me and the right order in less than 5 minutes every time. But if you want that great type of customer service then you need to visit here. read more

I recently visited Raleigh and found Shahrazad via Yelp. What an awesome find. I'm a longtime hookah smoker and have been to horrible lounges and great lounges around the country. This lounge has everything for everyone. Fire pits for cool nights. Outdoor seating. And a very extensive Shisha and beverage menu. The servers and staff were super attentive and friendly and the hookahs were very affordable. They offer free WiFi if you like doing work or watching movies on your decide. Once this COVID mess is over, I highly recommend this lounge. I'll definitely be back when I'm in town. read more

I could tell you about the great hookah, or the simple middle eastern inspired seating and environment, but I would be taking away from the highlight. the owner takes the spotlight for me, appears to be a kind person, and very friendly. Around 8pm the place came to live with customers, of all backgrounds. Highly recommend the place, enjoyed my time. read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Outside seating - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Shahrazad is a nice relaxing hangout or a place to get work done earlier in the day (they open as early as noon, some days). Earlier in the daytime is more ideal to study in a quieter environment that isn't as silent as a library. Usually not as loud/busy as a true cafe. There's an outside area, fire pits, an enclosed outside area with heat, inside area with couches, or table&chair setups that make Baklavagood work spaces (with plugs near most tables). They also sell hookahs, shisha, soft drinks, coffee, and desserts. On some evenings a good truck parked outside with great kebabs and wraps. The owner and his sons are friendly and polite, and staff is very professional. They always have a good recommendation for interesting hookah flavors, or will make amazing coffee to sit your flavor palette(if you don't really know what you'll like. read more

This is my favorite hookah spot in Raleigh. The staff are so kind & helpful. Their teas are also amazing!! Highly recommend going with friends or by yourself. Great vibe! read more

This place is pretty chill. It is really a nice place to hang out and talk. We ordered a Apple hooka with a vanilla flavor. It is pretty good and very smooth. They have couch seating inside or big black cushion chairs. A couple TVs are about. They have a huge out door cabana feel area. Some of the tables have fire pits. The outside area feel like you have been taken to a Stan type country feel. They have chill music playing and chill lighting. If your looking for a place to just come hangout worth our going to a loud bar this is it. read more

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Nice place to chill get a hookah and tea. Service was good. Lots of flavors to pick and good variety of teas.

This is a great hookah spot to come and chill. Very affordable with many flavors to choose from.. The tents in the back with the fire pits are legit!!! Plus they have good coffee and smoothies... read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Was here last weekend for a friends birthday weekend. My overall experience was great. I enjoyed myself, as well as my friends. There is a ton of seating area and for a Saturday night it was crowded. And yes, as the other reviews say.. we got lucky with parking. I thought the service was great. We were asked quickly if we wanted drinks, then our hookah order was taken. Our coals were changed throughout the night with no issues. We ordered the "Peach Queen" and I definitely enjoyed it. The atmosphere was nice. Had a clean bathroom. Con: There was a family there who brought their kids. (The time had to be after 1030-1100pm) and the kid was just constantly walking around our table. It was a bit annoying. Is it there fault? No, but just something to keep in mind. I will be returning. read more

I love this place. The staff is always very friendly and accommodating. I can go and spend hours there and they keep fresh coals coming. The music is great and the seating is very comfortable. If you're looking for a casual place to hang alone or with friends, this is a great spot. read more

They DO NOT try at all to keep people safe. Don't change the hose and try to start fights for no reason. They definitely need a new manager.

Very amazing spot to try hookah bar the fire pits are amazing and the atmosphere is too a most to stop by and see read more

Shahrazad Hookah - Arabic Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Great place! My husband and I walked over on an impulse, after eating dinner next-door. What we experienced was a laid-back atmosphere punctuated by awesome tea and delicious hookah. Everyone was very nice. I agree that the service is not fawning all over you, but I'm OK with that because that is not my expectation. What I experienced was a very low-key, homey, gathering place that was full of a great communal energy. Multicultural and awesome! I felt like a welcome guest in a friend's home. We will definitely be returning :) read more

Discovered this place a few months back and now look forward to every trip i make! Atmosphere is very chilled out. Inside and outside, great place to take friends, work on the laptop or just sit down and watch some sports! 10/10!! read more

Had a good time at Shahrazad. Great service and atmosphere. I would agree that the hookah is just "okay" but the prices are reasonable. To add to the great service, the night I went they had a complementary fruit bar. I will definitely visit again! read more

This place has the best environment. Outdoor seating, scenery, lighting, and atmosphere is unbeatable. Great flavors and tea's on the menu. The staff is amazing, especially Isabel!!! She takes care of us every time we talk in and make's sure everything goes smoothly. This is a great place to blow off some steam and relax after a long day. read more

Great place to sit down and enjoy a hookah. Staff and customers are super friendly and there are always great conversations to be had well smoking a great hookah. read more

I love coming to this hookah bar. I used to go to different ones to change it up but this is the only place I go to for a while now. Of all the ones in the Raleigh area this place is my favorite. The place itself is big and beautiful and always so clean. I love to sit outside when the weather is nice or around one of the fire pits when it's cold. The owner and the staff are amazing. Always a warm welcome and make sure you are well taken care of. The hookahs are good...I get watermelon-mint most of the time and switch it to lemon-mint in the summer months. I love that when I walk in they already know what I want. They have a large selection of beverages and you definitely can't have hookah without coffee or tea. Try a Turkish coffee or a Moroccan mint tea. You don't have to smoke to come here. Come enjoy a drink and a dessert and catch up with friends and relax. You might also meet some of your foreign locals. All in all this place is wonderful and I'm glad I was literally dragged here by a friend 6 years ago. read more

I usually don't frequent hookah bars that are to me less than five stars. The hookahs here are intact on point and I know what a good hookah is I have been packing bowls for years. The only downside to this place right now is the fact that the bonfire is off, once they have that set I will review it again. read more

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