Eastside Story

Have you ever heard of Egyptian hospitality? This is the place to find out, thanks to Mostafa, who takes such good care of his guests that youll be surprised (pleasantly, of course!).The place is very cozy, with soft lighting and Middle Eastern decor that will take you far away from New York.I was in New York for a few days and spotted this cafe that is highly rated by its customers, and I must say that it richly deserves its reputation. The service is impeccable and friendly. We had a fruit plate and it was varied, fresh and very good. The fresh mint tea was excellent and nicely scented.I highly recommend this place whether youre in New York or just passing through, its well worth the detour. I would like to thank Mostafa for all his care, friendliness and attention.

I cannot say enough amazing things about this place! We were caught in the rain late at night in NYC, and the owner welcomed us in at 2 AM with such incredible hospitality. They went above and beyond, offering us free hookah, a pot of tea, and drinks. The vibe was warm, cozy, and exactly what we needed on such a dreary night.The owner is truly one of a kind—kind, generous, and passionate about making everyone feel at home. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxing and unwinding, and the service is impeccable. This isn’t just a spot to hang out—it’s an experience that leaves you feeling valued and cared for.If you’re ever in NYC, don’t miss this gem. It’s places like this that remind you of the magic of hospitality. 10/10 would recommend!Let me know if you’d like to tweak anything!

What an amazing hookah experience!!Im an out of towner looking for the best hookah experience in NYC and this was it. Welcomed immediately by the owner Laila a gorgeous warm hearted woman who took care of me personally.From the Egyptian fresh mint tea (with real freaking mint leaves!!!) to the deliciously seasoned fresh fries my service was incredible.The hookah smoked well and flavorful for hours. I was able to do a custom blend for no additional charge! The vibe was chill and I appreciated that it wasn’t a club vibe.I will be back for more!

Absolutely in love with the pistachio ice cream flavor hookah! It’s literally my favorite flavor and never knew it existed. Atmosphere is super chill and wonderful hospitality. Price is super reasonable and definitely recommend this spot!

I had an amazing experience at the East Side Store! The hookah was top-notch, and the food was absolutely delicious. Mustafa’s hospitality truly went above and beyond, making our Christmas Eve celebration unforgettable. I can’t recommend this place enough if you’re looking for a great atmosphere and fantastic service. We’ll definitely be back!

We went spontaneously to this spot and no regrets! Hookah was amazing and long lasting. The service was a great experience! checking in on us and making sure we were good. it was comfortable and clean, cozy spot. music was nice and allowed for conversation (not too loud). highly recommend if you are looking for good hookah, good service, and catch up with friends! we had came from dinner so we didn’t eat but planning to come back and also have a bite!

I love this place so much!!! I’ve been coming here for 6 months now and Laila treats me like one of her sons.The food is great, the hookah is a godsend, personally I go for the James Bond or the Pistachio Ice Cream but you really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose.If you’re looking for a chill vibe or an intimate setting, this is definitely the place . Definitely try the lemon pepper wings or the hibiscus iced tea! I can’t stress it enough but this is like my third place and my second home.I love the hospitality of Laila and Eastside Story!

Absolutely fantastic experience! This hookah lounge exceeded all my expectations. The ambiance is perfect—dim lighting, comfortable seating, and a relaxing vibe that sets the mood just right. The hookah flavors are top-notch, offering a great variety to choose from, each one smooth and flavorful. The staff is attentive and friendly, always ensuring that the coals are well-managed and that you’re having a good time. The music selection adds to the overall experience without being overpowering. It’s the ideal spot to chill with friends or wind down after a long day. Highly recommended!

If you are looking for the best shisha place in New York, you have to come here. The Shisha is 10/10, and the service was amazing. I really felt a home vibe. The staff is super friendly, but Lelia was the best. She really goes above and beyond to make sure you have the best experience.

My new favorite place! Mustafa was BEYOND accommodating! Great vibes! Extremely clean! Very welcoming energy by him! So family oriented, he introduced my sister and I to his daughter Yasmin who was so sweet and grateful that we came in! This is my new spot genuinely! Highly recommend! Classy and chic vibe! A place where you can read a book, smoke some hookah and sip tea! Do some computer work and smoke hookah! I feel at home here! Please come visit! Such a beautiful atmosphere!

Eastside story is the pinnacle of the NYC hidden gems we’re all looking for. The food is amazing, no matter what you order, your taste buds will thank you and you will be satisfied. All of the food is quality AND quantity. The tea is delicious and soothing. The ambience is beautiful. The service treats you like family - if you end up here on a day when Laila is working, you will thank your lucky stars. She’s attentive, amazing, and always leaves you smiling. The hookah is the best in the city - do yourself a favor and order the pistachio or watermelon mint. This is a favorite spot of mine and anyone who goes once will agree and it won’t be their last time visiting!

Best hookah in Manhattan!! Must try. Ambience, service, food and music are near perfect. Ordered the peach mint and it was the best smoking hookah I had in the city by far! Must try will be back again. Mustafa the owner was kind and hospitable. Gave me free tea and dessert. Love it here.

I think I’ve found my new go to hookah spot! Eastside Story is an absolutely amazing place. The hospitality from both the server Vee and the owner Mustafa was exceptional. The hookah was fantastic - we tried Lady Killer and Peach Mint and both were top notch. We also enjoyed the delicious baklava, Egyptian tea, and hibiscus drinks - all amazing! The vibe of the place was also great, with good music and a nice ambiance from the lighting and decor. I’m already looking forward to my next visit. Overall a wonderful experience, highly recommend!!

An absolute gem of a place ran by an even better team providing top notch hospitality. I had an amazing experience at Eastside Story and I am already looking forward to my next visit (and many more afterwards - that’s how much I enjoyed my time here). The hookah quality was exceptional along with the mint tea which complimented the hookah really well. The staff are attentive and came around often to ensure everything was going smoothly. Want to give a shoutout to both Vee & Mostafa for their generosity and for showing what great customer service is. Eastside is a clean, well maintained, & a welcoming establishment who deserve all the stars!

Fantastic vibe at this place. Not clubish/loud. Very chill. Good hookah with traditional flavors available. Mint tea was perfect, more fresh mint and sugar on the side. Baklava, toshka, and shawarma were all very tasty. Im so glad we came down here while in town.Update: so we went again on the last day of our trip and this place wowd us all over. We tried a few more dishes and their delicious smoothies. The owners are so amazingly kind. I wish i could rate it more than 5 stars. If youre lookin for good food or a smoke sesh, you have to stop in here. It is unassuming from the curb - a true hidden gem on the east side.

We stopped in here at the end of our night, and probably the best decision we made. Firstly, the employees/owner was so friendly and welcoming. Their food looked very good as well, however we just came for hookah. The hot tea was also so great. It was probably the best hookah we ever had. I’ll for sure be returning when I visit, and if you are in nyc please try this place, you will not regret it.

This is a great hidden gem in the city. The food was absolutely delicious, one of the best hookahs in the city too. Good positive vibes, with middle eastern music was a delight to hear. Service was good with smiling people. Definitely recommend this place, I will be back soon!!!

East Side Story is the best hookah spot in the city. Not just the hookah is the best but the atmosphere is chill, good music, good people, very laid back not too loud like most hookah places.The pistachio hookah is the best! With the ice hose. Mustapha, the owner, has been an awesome host and so is the whole crew, drinks are great especially the mint lemonade and the turkish coffee. It’s like an escape from NY and perfect for laid back night with some friends.

We loved Eastside Story so much! The customer service was amazing. Leila was so accommodating and lovely to chat with. She actually took the time to recommend flavors that complimented each other and didnt cause coughing (and it worked because we didnt cough once during the stay or the day after). The pineapple head was smooth and the session lasted over an hr and we could have extended it for longer but we were wiped! The place is well ventilated, comfortable and inviting. Well definitely be back

They are absolutely amazing! Hookah and Service is top notch!! Always coming around with the fresh coal and reasonable prices! I got a hookah and a tea for under $40!

If youre looking for an unforgettable experience, East Side Story is the place to be. Mustafa, the owner, truly elevates this spot with his unmatched service and hospitality. The atmosphere is vibrant and inviting, enhanced by impeccable decor that sets the perfect mood. The food is exceptional, offering a delicious array of options that never disappoint. And if you enjoy shisha, youll find it to be top-notch here. East Side Story combines all these elements seamlessly, making it a must-visit destination.

The best hookah lounge in Manhattan! The service is the best! The waitress Kal was very nice and caring. Treats on the house were super delicious. Definitely will come back.

Amazing hookah lounge, this place is a hidden gem. Paan Raas with Pistachio Ice cream is an amazing combo for Shisha. Loved their Hummus and Falafel

Amazing service. Everyone is extremely friendly and welcoming. The food and tea are great. I came when it first opened and I’m so happy to see them succeeding in the neighborhood

Server named tutu was very rude and dismissive. He had a very nasty attitude and didn’t feel like a welcoming place at all. Hookah was not good at all and the ambiance was okay.

Great place!! Really felt at home here, love that it’s family run. Owner and workers are all amazing people and go above and beyond. I don’t leave many reviews but they deserve it and more!

Superb hosts. The city exudes a lovely, Arab middle-eastern vibe that is quite palpable. Food is delicious and hookah is perfect.

Mustapha and the team were hospitable, kind, helpful and respectful. Their hooka is legit, and I know hookah, believe me (trump voice). Awesome place for couples and groups.

The ambiance, food, and service here are amazing! Even if you’re not a Hookah-smoker (which it’s top notch) the environment here is laidback, friendly, and calm. This is wonderful place for a visit to relax and enjoy a great meal. I know I’ll be coming back and I’ll be bringing my friends with me!

Highly recommend this spot to chill and smoke some hookah. The food is great. Warm vibes. Layla, the owner, is amazing!!!

Went with big and small groups and they take really good care of you. Hookah is great, hummus is on point, and even the juice tastes fresh af

The lamb shawarma was amazing, the mixture between rice and lamb was unique as each had its own seasoning.

Musa is one of the kindest souls you can meet and he has built a great place of business. As soon as you walk in, he treats you like family and it felt as if I have known him for years.There are not too many places in NYC that has the phenomenal service he and his team present. If I could give 10 stars, I WOULD, but 5 is the max on the platform haha.The quality of hookah is off the charts and I would recommend anyone to come here and check out the pure vibes. Musa knows what he is doing :)

Must visit if looking for an authentic middle eastern vibe in the city! Appreciated the hospitality and the atmosphere by Moustafa and staff.

Clean, perfect service and awesome hookah and coffee!

If you are looking for great flavour and friendly service this is the place to be.Mohamed is the nicest guy in NYC.Thanks for a wonderful experience.

Mustafa will take care of you. The food is great. Its open late. It gives true NYC.

Some of the best hookah we have ever had. Service was exceptional and staff was very attentive and knew how to maintain the hookah. Very affordable and nice intimate atmosphere. Would definitely come back again.

Places like The Eastside Story shows how great New York City can be. When youre here you are treated with respect. Its as if you are family. You having a great experience is what they treasure. The food and drinks are delicious and the service is top draw. And with the hookah experience, you will leave relaxed. You are not rushed. Youre allowed to enjoy the experience.

Great service and great hookah!!! The food and tea is good but expensive.

Best Hookah in NY and the food was amazing! The service was top notch and fast. Everything is fresh and made to order. I was surprised a high quality meal came out so fast. The atmosphere is inviting with just right ambience. I would highly recommend this place.

A friend had recommended this place to me and it did not disappoint! Service was fluent, fast and wonderful. Music was soulful and elegant and went perfect with the atmosphere. Food was A-MAZING. Hookah was smooth and had a delightful flavor.

Awesome hookah lounge, service is always great!! I keep coming back for a reason haha 🙂

**East Side Story Hukka Lounge and Restaurant: A Perfect 10-Star Experience! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟**If 5 stars are the limit, East Side Story Hukka Lounge and Restaurant deserves nothing less than 10 glowing stars! From the moment you step in, you are greeted by an ambiance that is both cozy and vibrant, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.The hukka here is unparalleled, offering a variety of flavors that cater to every palate. But its not just the hukka that stands out—the food is absolutely amazing. The world’s best chicken shawarma is served here, and it’s a culinary masterpiece you wont find anywhere else. Each bite is a testament to the quality and skill that goes into every dish.What truly elevates East Side Story is the exceptional service. The staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that every need is met promptly. Mustafa, the owner, goes above and beyond to make each customer feel like a VIP. His personal touch and dedication to excellence make a significant difference, adding a layer of warmth and hospitality that is rare to find.In conclusion, East Side Story Hukka Lounge and Restaurant isn’t just a place to eat and smoke; it’s an experience. For the phenomenal hukka, delectable food, and outstanding service, it certainly earns a perfect 10 stars. Highly recommended!

Very nice! The service and food is great ! 10/10

Very friendly staff . The food was everything!!! Beautiful space. Close to my job so I try to hit it up once a week.

The food is SO SO GOOD!! the staff are EXTREMELY friendly and nice. so fun. the tea is AMAZING. this is my favourite place in the city for a night out. it’s so fun and relaxing. also LGBT friendly!! my girlfriend and i LOVE it here 11/10!!

Its was amaizing experince to come to this hooka place the drinks was relay delecieus and specialy i want tolk abt service ther is arabec grl her nime djian she is very freindly always i see her smilling she keep asking as idf we need somthing if evrithing ok realy happy to got nice service from her

I recently visited Eastside Story and had an amazing experience. The lamp chips were absolutely delicious and the best Ive had in town. Signature pistachio Hookah was also top-notch, providing a fantastic way to relax and unwind. The ambiance of the place is super clean and chill, creating a cozy spot to hang out. The staff were incredibly friendly and made the whole experience even better. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great food, a relaxing atmosphere, and excellent service. Cant wait to visit again

Best place to be in NYC…Mostafa the boss and his team Omar et Selvador were so wonderful to us …Hookah and food wawww…Thank u guys really… u are the best in town 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Laila is so amazing the vibes are perfect, the food is so fresh and made with love - you can’t go wrong. A gem for the books, don’t miss out!!! Must come ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

East Side Story Hookah Lounge is hands down my favorite spot in the city! The hookah here is top-notch, with rich flavors that last for hours. You can really tell they use high-quality coals, which makes all the difference. The vibe is incredibly relaxed and welcoming. Whether you’re seated indoors or out on their spacious patio, the ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a busy day in the city. The staff is super friendly and attentive. They make sure you’re always taken care of, whether it’s refreshing your hookah or serving delicious food. Speaking of food, the hummus and pita were amazing—definitely worth trying! I’ll be coming back again and again, especially for their unique flavor options and comfortable setting. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great hookah experience in NYC!

Amazing hookah experience. Service was extremely friendly. Food and drinks were actually really good too! Try the hibiscus tea.

Nicest staff, delicious food and great hookah.The staff was so hospitable that they gave us desserts and a mini fruit plate on the house, super kind people.The atmosphere and cozy n nice and they have a lot of space in the back dining hall too.

Service was incredible. We felt very welcome, and the staff was really friendly. Not a big hookah person, but we came with a group at the end of the night and had a wonderful time.

The hospitality here is on a different level! The owner is amazing!! Won’t find a better hookah spot with such great food and amazing vibes. My go to everytime I’m in the city!

I started coming here regularly, very good hookah and food! The service is the best ive had at a hookah bar, the staff and owner is incredibly friendly as well.Highly recommend anyone stop by!

Eastside story has the best food and the best sheesha as well as an amazing service!The place is very aesthetic and welcoming! We will definitely be coming back here!

The shisha was very smooth. Ambiance was excellent. We went to another shisha place in the area the next night. This place was a lot better

Excellent hookah, super knowledgeable staff and very friendly. Will make this our new go to hookah spot. The vibes and music was great as well.

Amazing staff, amazing Hookah and amazing food. It was very cozy and not too loud. Leila, and the other young lady were awesome. They went above and beyond making sure I was comfortable. The food being absolutely delicious was just a bonus. Thank you very much!!

East Side Story is a true hidden gem, a captivating oasis tucked away from the bustling city streets. Its unassuming exterior conceals a treasure trove of hookah delights and an intimate atmosphere that feels like a well-kept secret. The moment you step through the door, youre transported to a world of exotic flavors and mesmerizing ambiance, and you cant help but feel like youve discovered something special. This hidden gem not only offers outstanding hookah experiences but also the amazing hospitality by Ali and Mustafa makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable evening.

Literally one of the best Hookah spots I’ve ever been to. The food is amazing! The customer service is fantastic! The prices are great!! This is definitely my new favorite place!! It’s such a gem to have a beautiful spot like this!! I will 100% be back here!!!

The best hookah place in NYC, the food so amazing, nice staff, always smiling.

Eastside Story is hands down my favorite hookah spot in the East Village! The staff goes the extra mile to ensure you’re comfortable and have everything you need for a great time. Their personalized service adds an extra touch that makes each visit the best. Not to mention, their hookah selection is on point! Highly, highly recommend this gem!

This place just opened and you should check it out. The food is exceptional, laid back atmosphere, breezy and comfortable. A great spot to smoke a hookah, meet friends, or throw a party in the back. Tell Mustafa I said hello and enjoy. Lamb chops were delicious. Homemade hummus of course. Yum.

The best hookah in town. The service is exceptional. The owner is amazing and very hospitable. They have pan ras flavor, which is not available in the rest of the country. It was a great decision coming here and I would HIGHLY recommend anyone else coming here. It’s been a pleasure!

I came across Eastside Story as I wanted to hang out and smoke hookah… this place is FANTASTIC! Went last night (Saturday 3/2)… service was great upon arrival, excellent shisha (I’m an avid smoker) and even met my favorite TikTok influencer who popped in! Can’t tell they’ve only been open 5-months… they will be super successful in the coming summer months! Mashallah! 😁😁

If you are looking for legit OG hookah place, this is it...Amazing service with reasonable price. Will be there every week! we love you Ali🫶

What can I say that hasnt been said already? The atmosphere is energetic but also very laid back and welcoming. It really felt like going to someones home in every positive way. Leila is such a heartwarming person; her customer service was magnificent. It was my first time, stumbling through at almost 2 in the morning looking for a late-night hookah spot but walked into a hidden treasure with chill vibes, great hummus (arguably some of the best Ive had in a while) and the hookah was A-1. But again, the service: Amazing. 100/10 would recommend. Leila, if you see this, thank you for making the night so special for my girlfriend and I. Im definitely looking forward to going back.

Came here and it looks ghetto. Honestly. Balloons all over the place that ruin the vibe. Staff doesn’t seem to understand much. Gave me a hookah WITHOUT THE TIP. I had to ask for the tip myself but at that point was useless and too late. Also was empty. Not a great atmosphere honestly there’s much better don’t waste your time here !!

Cozy, service 🔥🔥🔥, but hookah😏

Having explored nearly all the hookah spots across NYC (including Astoria, Queens), I can confidently say that East Side Story stands out as the absolute best. What sets it apart isnt just the quality of the hookah but the overall experience, highlighted by the warm and welcoming service from the wonderful Laila. As a Muslim, I deeply appreciate that this place doesnt serve alcohol, creating a more inclusive and comfortable environment. It’s a truly fulfilling experience every time I visit. Highly recommended!

Loved the sweet, intimate atmosphere. Very kind & attentive staff ❤️ Definitely visiting again. Comfortable outside sitting space. Great spot, would recommend to anyone…and have already recommended the spot to friends!

I’m a regular hookah enjoyer and I have a hookah that I smoke at home all the time so I’m extremely picky and don’t trust just about anyone with making my hookah. This place definitely makes the cut and I wasn’t disappointed one bit. I’m visiting NYC from Canada and so I just wanted to smoke a good hookah before my trip back home and nothing else so I was desperate cause I leave in a few hours. And since I usually make my own hookah, I never go to hookah cafes so when I came here I was worried whether I’d be taking a risk. I’m only writing this review to help out those who are serious like me about their hookah to find the right place to unwind alone or with friends or family. The hookahs here are og Khalil Mamoons and you should be able to tell the difference. The pipes are single-use pipes which is great because you’re not smoking from the same pipe as everyone before you. The double apple is my personal go-to and it’s smooth, long-lasting and full-bodied flavour even after I’ve been smoking it for over an hour now. It’s also the kind of place I’d comfortably take my parents or family or girlfriend to for sure, absolutely worry free. I drink tea or coffee with my hookah so I had the arabian coffee which I also highly recommend. The people here are very gracious and warm, the vibes are immaculate. Great selection of arabic music, they play oldies and classics as well as modern songs. (I’m a huge arabic music fan and still I’ve asked Siri for what’s playing like five or six times already lol) The place is clean and tidy and no bad vibes or anything unpleasant. I’m telling all my NYC friends about this place asap and definitely planning on coming back here next time I visit, hopefully soon. I’m originally from the middle east and this place feels just like home. Highly highly recommend if you’re looking for an authentic laid-back experience. Price is right and you’re getting your full buck’s worth so don’t be shy with your bill. You’re welcome :) 10/10

Eastside Story is a great hookah lounge. Great service, great hookah and great vibes. Everything I look for in a hookah lounge. Looking forward to coming back.

East Side Story Lounge is an exceptional establishment, providing a sophisticated ambiance ideal for unwinding while relishing exquisite cuisine. The restaurant offers an extensive and impressive menu, showcasing an array of delectable dishes, all complemented by a charming and inviting backyard area, elevating the dining experience to unparalleled levels of enjoyment.

The most authentic and delightful hookah spot in the city. The ambience is homey yet culturally sophisticated. Fantastic service, food, and hookah. New York is lucky to have this gem.

This is the best halal restaurant and hookah lounge you will find in New York City. The environment is authentic and relaxed, the hospitality is far above expectation, and the hookah is beautifully made. The servers were very attentive and welcoming. I can honestly say my experience there has left a lasting impression that I will remember for a lifetime.

I absolutely love this place, the service and the people that work here are incredible! Such a beautiful and delicious restaurant to go to for a perfect night!! I eat here almost every night now!!!:))

Very cute, cozy hookah lounge in a great location. Its right by Tompkins, so you can visit the park before dropping in.The staff are super friendly. I came alone, and had pleasant conversation with Mustafa, who also guided me to the best flavors to try. (Pistachio, following mint, is a smoothe, satisfying combo!) The music and movies playing in the background are a nice touch.This was my first time soloing a hookah bar. It takes a special place to make that a comfortable, pleasant experience. :)

Best shisha in the area.اشي مرتب 👌🏼 وارجيلة على كيفكThey have double apple flavor (for the OGs) costs 30$ for the regular headThe vibe is exactly what I was looking for, chill with low volume arabic musicAnd the service is good

Second time coming here and definitely not the last! I have been to a lot of hookah lounges across the boroughs, and this is my favorite in Manhattan hands down. Mostafa and the staff are very attentive and great in general.Hookah is long lasting and shisha is very good quality. From drinks I would recommend fresh mint lemonade and the ice hibiscus flower tea, absolutely delicious. Thank you, always pleasure to visit when I am in east village!

Amazing! The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with great vibe for relaxing. The staff was super friendly and attentive, making sure our hookah was perfect. Whether you’re with friends or solo, this place is a must-visit. Highly recommend it!

Omg!!! This place made me fall in love with Hooka!Not only that I crave their Mutabal eggplant dip, its SO GOOD!I want to have my birthday party here!!!

Love this hidden gem hope everyone try’s out our drinks and food 🤝🏽

Eastside Story is hands down the best spot in NYC. The food, hookah, and atmosphere are unparalleled. This place is what all businesses in the hospitality industry should aspire to be. The food is fantastic and well worth coming for, even if you don’t smoke hookah. The dishes are traditional, infused with beautiful flavors, and cooked to perfection. The hookah is consistently great and even a seasoned smoker is going to appreciate the quality. The team couldn’t be kinder, welcomes you into this gem and makes you want to stay. The atmosphere is relaxing and authentic and makes you want to return regularly. So grateful to have found this wonderful place. Thank you to Rafi, Ali, and Moustafa for bringing their love and dedication everyday. We hope to return for many years to come. P.S. highly recommended having some tea to complement the hookah.

Best shisha I’ve had in the city so far! Very nice atmosphere and the food was great. Good portion sizes for someone who’s coming hungry.

Great hookah and really nice people.

Was there with my girlfriend last night - you will not regret going here. Everything from the vibe, to the quality of product, to the just total caring and family-like attitude of the hospitality - unbelievable. And in my opinion quite inexpensive for this level of service.

Amazing service and friendly staff !It was so relaxing to stay thereI would love to come back next time to try their food. Definitely recommend!

Amazing service and delicious food with a chill atmosphere.

Such a cool spot with yummy tea and food. Very kind staff members who are so hospitable. Highly recommend !

Excellent staff, amazing owner very welcoming and the food is authentic! One of the best cozy places in Manhattan.

I had a great experience here! The owners are extremely friendly and the service was great. Will definitely be back soon

Such great service and lowkey vibes make this a great late night spot! Try a milk tea to go with your hookah and you wont regret it

One of the best hookah spots in Manhattan, The food is amazing! Excellent service, This is definitely my new favourite place! Highly recommend this spot!

Great environment, excellent customer service ❤️🫶🏻

I was taken to this spot twice now, and both times I had the opportunity to meet Laila who was so kind and gracious and funny. The food was good and the service was great, the energy was very calm.

This is one of the great hookah bars in New York. The staff are always welcoming and friendly. The food and tea are delicious, and the atmosphere is perfect. Dont expect a loud, club-like vibe. There are other places for that. Come to relax, smoke, and talk.

Hidden gemNice shisha and Leila is absolutely wonderful. Super attentive and great service !

Such a great experience! Amazing food, cool and unique atmosphere and fantastic staff. I very rarely write reviews but walked out feeling completed to because it was such a great place.

One of the worst experiences I’ve had in NYC, while visiting our waiter was very dismissive and when we expressed our concern, he got angry and started shouting at us. We hadn’t even placed our orders and decided it was best to leave given that he was not trying to de-escalate the situation but rather wanted to argue with two young girls. We went to Sahara East which is around the corner, highly recommend. Service was amazing at Sahara east.

WOW! I was in NYC for a few weeks and made it a point to visit this place as often as I could. The food, drinks, hookah, and service were all out of this world. Thank you Mustafa for the wonderful service everytime. THE BEST HOOKAH BAR IN NYC BAR NONE

They have the best hookah and Arabic coffee we have ever had before! Also, the best service and hospitality. Wish you all the best for you and your business.

Aside from the authentic feel, the food is wonderful, the hookah is awesome, and the staff is very welcoming.

Mostafa and the staff took excellent care of us. Top notch hookah bar in the East Village

10/10 service. Leila genuinely cares about you and wants to make sure you are feeling comfortable.The hookah is great and lasts long, the food is fresh. Thank you for making our night!

The lamb chops are AMAZING! Great ambiance, super welcoming and friendly staff. Make you feel like home. Love this spot!

Some of the most unique Mediterranean food in the city especially with hookah. Gotta try the lamb and the owner is the friendliest

Mostafa is the best. This spot has great food, vibes, and service. Highly recommend

What a wonderful gem! My partner and I stumbled upon this place by chance and we’re so happy we did. Excellent service and absolutely delicious food — the folks here are so warm, welcoming and friendly; and the chicken over rice is bliss. Don’t forget to top it off with some hookah too. Can’t recommend this place enough, will definitely be back.

The best hookah in New York and fast service 👍

Great food, charming atmosphere, professional and friendly team and fascinating music.My friend West and I really enjoyed our first time experience visiting here and we will be sure to return and bring other friends.The hookah is also delicious and very distinct.

Fantastic service here! And a cute and chill space, nicely decorated and spacious

The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was great! Coming all the way from Canada to try this place and it went beyond our expectations. 10/10!

Excellent hookah bar, really friendly and attentive service and great music!

We loved it so much we came back every night on our visit to NYC. A great place to relax in the city!

Great place, Laila was very welcoming. Will definitely visit again!

Mustafa and the team is an absolute gem. Really glad we chose to celebrate my friend’s birthday here 🎈

Ali was a wonderfully gracious host. Food is top notch and the whole atmosphere is just amazing.

Great Humus, and shisha! Layla was a great host

I recently visited Eastside Story, and it was an incredible experience! The atmosphere was inviting and relaxing, perfect for a night out. The food was absolutely delicious, and the blueberry mint hookah was great too.However, what truly made the evening special was our gorgeous waitress, Yasmine. She was an absolute joy to be around—attentive, friendly, and genuinely caring. Yasmine’s exceptional service added a personal touch to our meal, making the experience unforgettable. I highly recommend this place and will definitely be returning soon!

Great service, amazing host (Laila), will definitely be back.

We had a great time at Eastside. Mustafa and Mohammed were very hospitable and provided the best service we had in New York. Very lovely. Cant wait to come back! 10/10 recommend

Fun, clean spot and the nicest owner highly recommend

The service is exceptional and I really appreciated the variety. Mustafa is so wonderful and a big reason we keep coming back!

Such a cozy spot! Great food and hookah. The staff was so kind and attentive!

This spot is a total gem! Mohammed gave us his speciality hookah, and we were blown away by its smooth and long draft. We ordered their iced Hibiscus tea and Egyptian mint tea to go with the Koftah, and it was a winning combo. We arrived after midnight. By the time we headed out just past 2:30am, more people were filing in for a good time. This is my new favorite spot for hookah.Bonus: there are classic black and white Arabic films playing in the background. As a movie buff, this is a nice touch.

This place is a great vibe. Kind owners and incredible service. Highly recommend!

Mustafa was amazing. Took care of every need I had. Would definitely come back!

Great service and fantastic hookah

The best hookah place we‘ve tried in NYC. We have been there a few times and every time the service was outstanding, hookah quality is very good and general vibes are great - especially on a summer evening.

We had a really nice time here. Great spot, chill vibes, good music. Hookah was great. Staff was spectacular, thanks Muhammad for great service!! Cool backyard patio. Would definitely recommend this spot 👍

Worst spot in manhattan the ground is dirty the service is so slow and it’s so expensive and the food is it taste bad the chicken is not cooked so it’s disgusting

Love the environment!

OH MY GOD. Honestly guys the most fun I’ve had in a very long time.I work a 9-5 so to come somewhere else and be taken care of was truly something special. The staff was incredible and the the owner Moustapha was very helpful even when I didn’t need it !!!! Highly recommend!! 10/10 that Hookah was so good. Great music as well. Will be back !!!!

Visiting New York and probably the only decent hookah place weve seen. Loved everything about this place.

A hidden gem. The food was great. It is really hard to find fresh homemade food in New York. And there it was.The hookah was top notch and lasted for hours. Highly recommended

Mohammed was so nice, service was excellent and all the staff are so friendly!

The most hospitable and relaxing place to chill and have a good time. Love the atmosphere. Highly recommend.

Great food nice environment. Chicken kebabs is amazing. Service is friendly and attentive. Highly recommend!!

Love this place

Amazing food and amazing people will always come back 100% recommend !!And the waitress is the waitress best :)

Great quality shisha and fabulous service

Very bad hookah was there on Friday yesterday the hookah was ugly the charcoal black turns off I hated my self

If you want to relax and smoke hookah, this is the spot. Ive had hookah in Seattle, San Diego, Tampa, and NYC. This is the spot for winding down.

Amazing service , great place & hooka. Highly recommend.

Best place in NYC

Great service, friendly staff. Hookah was excellent.

Nice service and good vibes. Highly recommend!

Best hookah and service

Had the best experience here!They have an amazing hookah and their service is super.Must visit this place!!!

The best hookah. Great hospitality.The food is amazing 10/10

Stumbled on this place and it was such a great find! Amazing outdoor space and the staff was incredibly friendly (shout out to Muhammad!). Would recommend to anyone looking for an authentic hookah experience.

Love the food here!

Gréât service. Professional manager and team. Food is amazing

This place is truly awesome. I stumbled upon it when we were looking for a good place to it in the area and so glad we did. Ali was extremely hospitable, gave us recommendations on the menu, let us try some amazing tea and the food was delicious! I was surprised at how good the shawarma was. It’s a chill vibe, a great place to hang with friends and the friendliness of everyone there is so refreshing for the city.I can’t wait to get back again and try more food & hookah. Definitely come by if you’re looking for a new spot in the city!

Absolutely phenomenal experience. I haven’t smoked a hookah since I was 15 and this was a perfect reintroduction to the game. Muhammad is possibly the best server I’ve had in New York City, period. You’re in for a treat if you have him (go during the night time).Furthermore, super affordable hookah experience in the heart of one of the most interesting areas in manhattan. The quality of the tobacco/shisha is premium and you can hit the bathhouse across the street for well rounded relaxing experience. Also, the food slaps, get whatever the special is or anything Muhammad recommends.10/10

The best Hookah place ever in Manhattan

It’s a very nice, decent and clean space… good shisha and no loud music… a perfect shisha n peaceful time…

I have many reasons to give this place beyond 5 stars. Great folks with great tastes and excellent hospitality. I bring friends and family here whenever I can. Everything from their food, drink, and smoke options is excellent!

Best hookah experience I’ve ever had. Mohammad was so helpful and warm and the atmosphere is cozy, will be a regular here for sure.

Great atmosphere and even better service!

Good place for a clean, authentic atmosphere. Egyptian vibes.

Hidden gem, excellent place to relax, come with friends, remote work, or just share delicious & well priced food. Shout out to Mohamed for notably good service !

Love the atmosphere here :) definitely come back next time

Finally, a hookah spot that knows what the hell they are doing. All these other spots are weird, dark, and loud.

Best time I had I would recommend going to the owners son Mohammad for the best hookah

Best hookah lounge in nyc!!! Everyone is super welcoming, Mustafa and Mohammed do an impeccable job making sure they provide the most amazing service ever. From the food, staff, and atmosphere this place is truly a 10/10!

AMAZING customer service, amazing everything , amazing drinks. 10/10 place

Mustafah (hopefully i appel this right) awesome and welcoming host

I hope I will never come back to this review and will want to change it. It was pretty good place. I love it. As long as they dont change I will keep going there. Excellent food and service.

Best place in nyc

Mustafa is super friendly and the food came very quickly!

BEST HOOKAH SPOT IN ALL OF NYC! It’s such a cute and cozy spot tucked away in the heart of the city and the prices are pretty fair considering. The owner is the most precious individual and gets the idea of what a hookah cafe should be like. If you’re in the area trying to find a hookah spot to work or chill without being weirded out by dark sketchy rooms, which admittedly is most of the spots in nyc, then this is the spot!!

My friends and I came across Eastside Story during a late night hanging out that good conversation led us to. We were long past dinner and evening drinks and into the deeper parts of our conversation, and hookah just seemed like the natural next step (I havent been to a hookah bar in like 7 years).The owners Ali and Mustafa were on-site and both conversational and attentive. They were incredibly friendly, and seemed genuinely invested in ensuring we had a great time, including advising on some of their cultural-specifical recommendations.Overall it was a total win and we would definitely visit again. Great place to enjoy a quiet evening with friends over good hookah, food, and conversation. Thanks!

Ask for Rafi and Gigi, they will take great care of you and your party and treat you like family. I highly recommend visiting.

Amazing food, great hosts. Try out the Mint lemonade

When visiting New York, Eastside Story is a definite must! From the food to the ambiance to the service, everything was top-notch. They value their customers. I will be sure to stop by with every visit.

Food and hookah is expensive but atmosphere is chill

Such an amazing spot, and the owner is cool too! If your black this is definitely a cool spot to chill

Awesome experience! This is a legit hookah joint. Very laid back atmosphere and the people who run the place are super friendly and hospitable - shout out to Mustafa & Mohammed! Prices are low compared to other hookah lounges in the city. Also loved the authentic mint tea.

Excellent hookah, very authentic environment, best service you can ask for. The pineapple bowl lasted a few hours without loosing flavor. I will definitely be coming back.

Amazing vibe!

Amazing hookah, great drinks and food as well

Amazing food and ambience. My go to spot in east village. Very friendly staff and would highly recommend !

This place has amazing food , atmosphere and music.Ali the owner was very hospital and so the staff . I definitely recommend it if you wanna have a pleasant experience stop by! 🔥

Most amazing service so kind and amazing vibes!

This is one of the best hookah lounges in the city! I used to hit Horus all the time until I stumbled across this place and they truly know what good service is. The food is amazing, everyone is so friendly and attentive and the hookah hits great (I last had coconut peach and it was so good, but my go to is watermelon gum mint!) I usually like to gatekeep but this place deserves its recognition! Mustafa is amazing, and he remembers me every time I walk in. Please dont change Eastside Story! 🫶🏾

Had a great time here with friends. hookah and tea were good and the waiter was very helpful and even brought us snacks! Definitely would recommend.

I came across this place a few weeks ago, would recommend.

Great service 👌🏻

I loved the hookah i loved the vibes seems all nice and great! Good service

Probably the best service Ive ever had at hookah place, let alone in nyc. Attentive, well made and affordable hookahs, with great flavors and strong coal. These people deserve your business!

Amazing food and shisha. Rafi, the shisha maestro, and Mustapha, the wizard in the kitchen, are too kind as well! 10/10 would recommend!

Customer service was great; my party was seated right away as soon as we arrived. The prices were extremely reasonable for the hookah and the food we purchased. On top of that customer service throughout our experience was excellence. The owner checked up on us frequently to make sure we were taken care of. I highly recommend anyone looking for a great hookah spot to check this out.

Moustapha is one of the most daring and welcoming managers I’ve ever met. The food is good and his hookah is very special. If you want to have a good time and taste the best hookah in Manhattan I recommend Eastside Story.

Great atmosphere! The owner is always so courteous and places a premium on hospitality / quality. Would highly recommend!