Hookah Buzz Trades College Atmosphere for Adult Vibe in North Austin

I’ve been going to hookah lounges in Austin for years, and I love them. From their advent, they’ve offered a casual atmosphere where people can meet to discuss business, politics, or art. That is still the case in Austin. But I think my favorite aspect of local hookah lounges is the fact that I can meet individuals from all over the world when I visit.

Hookah Buzz is a new hookah lounge in way North Austin. It was founded in January 2017 by my new friend, Audi. A blend of Turkish and Moroccan-style hookah lounges is evident in the atmosphere. Think about the hanging lights and rugs you tend to find in hookah lounges–those come from Turkey. You won’t have to sit on the floor like they do in Turkey, though. Hookah Buzz adds modern elements from Moroccan culture into the lounge through music, sofas, and tall tables.

Building a Hookah Community

Audi and I sat down to enjoy a bowl of grapefruit-mint (don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it) and discuss why he wanted to open a hookah lounge in North Austin.

“For me, it’s all about the community,” he shared. “Hookah lounges are parts of the community, but in Austin many of them have more of a party atmosphere. It’s because of all of the college students in Austin. My place is more for locals who want to unwind without all the loud music and energy.”

I think it’s safe to say that I’ve become one of his regulars, personally becoming part of the community Audi is building. It’s a thriving group of internationals with cool stories to tell, people from Europe, the Americas, and elsewhere who appreciate a more adult vibe.

Experiencing New Flavors and Cultures at Hookah Buzz

Formerly, I didn’t appreciate how much work goes into creating a local hookah bar. The entire interior of Hookah Buzz is incredibly clean. The deep black sofas envelop you and your friends as you relax and catch up on each others’ lives. The lighting is low, with hanging lanterns and starry ceiling light, giving the atmosphere an intimate and friendly vibe. The music can range from low-key Drake hits to Turkish songs that are popular right now in that part of the world.

It’s a great place to get acquainted with the world of hookah. There are a ton of flavors to choose from, and the employees take the time to help you find something to suit your taste. Bring your own alcohol or food, and the experience becomes something similar to a wine tasting. Certain flavors blend better with certain drinks, and the team at Hookah Buzz has their pairing down to a science.

There are also different types of Moroccan coffee to choose from if you want to dive into that world, also. You can also purchase snacks such as wraps, quesadillas, and veggies trays.

Don’t take my word for it. Check out Hookah Buzz for yourself. As of this writing, it’s the only hookah lounge in Austin with five stars across both Google and Yelp, which is really difficult to accomplish. A lot of people don’t appreciate what goes into a five-star hookah experience unless they experience it for themselves. When you visit, tell them Dusty from The Austinot sent you.

​11657 Research Blvd #106 – Website

 

@DustyVegas wants to know:

What is your favorite hookah lounge in Austin?