If you are looking for something to do with friends besides hitting up the local bar scene, Samiii’s Hookah Lounge on Middle Tennessee Boulevard is definitely different from most hangouts around the ’Boro.
The atmosphere, with its trickling fountains, dim lighting and tranquil feel, is relaxing and unique, which is exactly what owner Sami Ihmaidan says makes the place perfect for a “date night or a large group of friends.”
James Howse and Jamie Dooley, both MTSU students and trying the Fuzzy Navel flavored tobacco, admit they come to Samiii’s fairly often because they really like the “setup of the place.”
The lounge opened about five months ago and is already creating some buzz.
“The place is awesome, especially for students, and is just a real chill environment,” said Jessica Caldwell.
Another MTSU student, Bryan Wilson, says he frequents Samiii’s because it is a “relaxing place” to “kick back” and enjoy some Blue Mist Starbuzz tobacco.
Ihmaidan mentions that he has “over 100 flavors of tobacco and can even mix flavors to create original ones.”
Samiii’s is open seven nights a week from 4 p.m. until around 3 a.m., and is B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Beer). Ihmaidan also serves sodas and a variety of different flavored hot teas.
For those of you who have never been to Samiii’s or smoked from a hookah, here’s how it works: You pick a place in the lounge to sit and Ihmaidan brings a hookah and several different tobacco flavor choices. The tobacco is $10 for regular quality, $12 for medium, $20 for high quality, and if there are more than two people to a hookah, an additional $2 per person is charged. Depending on the quality level and number of people, the tobacco can last from 30 minutes to an hour.
Ihmaidan also points out, “The hookahs are washed after each use and very sanitary,” though disposable covers are offered to put over the mouthpiece.
I tried the Blue Mist high quality tobacco, recommended by Ihmaidan, and it was sweet, a little fruity, lighter than the harshness of a cigarette. It’s worth checking out if you’re interested in something new or down for a cultural experience.
“Smoking from hookahs is a long-standing Middle Eastern and Asian tradition that dates back hundreds of years,” according to Ihmaidan.
Samiii’s has free Wi-Fi so computers are welcomed for those who do not want to completely commit to old traditions.
Ihmaidan also has hookahs, tobacco, hoses for sale, and does repair work on hookahs. The lounge can also be rented for private parties.
Samiii’s Hookah Lounge has an exotic vibe and a calming ambiance, which could be a fun, fresh alternative if you want to pass on the loud, overcrowded bars for a night.
For more information, visit myspace.com/samiiishookahlounge.
