Best Shisha Lounges in London

London’s social scene has been revolutionised by the Arab influence of shisha (hookah). Gone are the days when shisha lounges could only be found on Edgware Road. Having “shisha hopped” through several parts of the city, here is my selection of 2017’s trendiest places to unwind.

North London – Mia Lounge

Mia Lounge was relaunched in early 2016 to become one of London’s finest ‘indoor’ shisha lounges. It is the perfect place to spend a few hours with a date or a group of friends, combining Lebanese cuisine with cocktails, shisha and sumptuous milkshakes – try Mama Mia’s Milk & Cookies. Weekends and evenings are particularly buzzing.

Shisha price: £25+
Alcohol: Served
Contact: 135 Finchley Road, Swiss Cottage, London, NW3 6JH; +44 (0)20 7449 9666

Central London – Elysee

Elysee is a chic, cool hideaway in the middle of Fitzrovia. By day, it is a posh Greek restaurant and by night, it becomes a vibrant concoction of a rooftop shisha garden, bar and mini nightclub all in one. To enjoy all that Elysee has to offer, arrive after 7pm on a weekend.

Shisha price: £35+
Alcohol: Served
Contact: 13 Percy St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1DP; +44 (0)207 636 4804

West London – Syon Lounge, Hilton

Syon Lounge (part of the Hilton Hotel) is another unique concept, combining Japanese cuisine with ‘indoor’ shisha within the picturesque Syon Park. Their sushi menu is much spoken about, though their vegetarian options are rather limited. Their desserts are a must-try, especially their Nutella Crepes. Ideally, visit on a sunny day with time to savour the lovely views of the park over a shisha catch up.

Shisha price: £25+
Alcohol: Not served
Contact: Hilton Hotel Syon Park, TW8 8JF; +44 (0)208 568 4837

South London I – Istanbul Meze Mangal

Istanbul Meze Mangal is a Mediterranean restaurant and lounge just opposite Colliers Wood tube station, offering some of the finest Turkish cuisine in London along with a cosy, buzzing shisha garden. The main restaurant provides a romantic setting, while the shisha garden has a very informal, relaxed vibe. The Vegetarian Moussaka and grilled foods are a must try.

Shisha price: £12.50+
Alcohol: Served
Contact: 222 High Street Colliers Wood, Merton, London, SW19 2BH; +44 (0)208 543 3123

South London II – Phoenix Shisha Lounge

Phoenix Shisha Lounge is another ‘indoor’ rooftop lounge in the midst of bustling Tooting. They offer exclusive shisha flavours and a great range of milkshakes as well as desserts. Their Paan, Grape & Mint Shisha combined with Ferrero Milkshake are personal favourites. The vibe is cosy, relaxed and welcoming with personalised customer service. Definitely one when you’re looking for that no fuss type of chill out evening.

Shisha price: £12+
Alcohol: Not served. You can bring your own if booked in advance
Contact: 172 Upper Tooting Road, London, SW17 7ER; +44 (0)7931 744 161

East London – Temple Lounge

Temple Lounge is one of the most popular shisha hangouts in East London. Not only do they offer a multitude of shisha flavours along with a selection of cuisines, but you also get a stunning view of Canary Wharf. The best time to visit is just before sunset.

Shisha price: £20+
Alcohol: Not served. You can bring your own if booked in advance
Contact: Hertsmere Road, West India Quay, Canary Wharf, E14 4AF; +44 (0)207 005 0862