Came here in lieu of Harlem Hookah since it apparently closed and I was pleasantly surprised. They have ice hoses which are my preference and the music was really good. The vibes were chill and the attendants were great! Good prices as well. Parking was a little hard to find, around 11pm, but I was able to find close parking after about 10-15 minutes. I dont generally go out to Hookah spots anymore but, I would return here given its proximity to my house. read more

This hookah lounge is such a hidden gem. It's very clean, peaceful, and has a calm vibe that's hard to find. The environment is perfect for relaxing or having a low-key conversation. Everything felt well taken care of, and I really enjoyed my time here. read more

Parlay Cafe - Hookah Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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The service was amazing. Chadina was our server. She was extremely attentive, observant and sweet. I would go back just on her account. The hookah was alright. The music was cool. I really like the decor. read more

Parlay Cafe - Lady Killer hookah, old fashioned and a whiskey salad. - Hookah Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I came here after dinner one night as it was a 10 minute walk from the restaurant that my friends and I ate at. My first impression walking in was that it was like your regular hookah lounge with dim moody lights and music playing. But there was barely anyone in there. It was like 12 at night so I was expecting the place to be a little more lively. The only good thing I can say about this place is that the hookah is cheap. They had three different flavor options for hookah and we ordered the cheapest which I believe was $25... Although it was cheap, the hookah just wasn't 'hookah-ing'. The amount of smoke coming from each pull wasn't what my friends and I are used to. I am used to a cloud of smoke from one pull and instead there was just a little. I felt myself pulling longer and harder and therefore causing a headache. The other thing I would like to mention is the music... They were playing hits but the transitions were trash. They went from Brent Faiyaz and The Weeknd to Early 2000s rap. It just didn't make sense and was very noticeable. I feel like these are easy fixes for a place like this. It has potential so I wouldn't write it off completely but definitely change the person in the back making the hookah and switch out the DJ. read more

When I walked in, the owner or only male in the store came to me and as I greeted his he demanded my ID. Well good day to you too. After receiving the menu, I selected a premium flavor ( which normally is $15) and is just the regular flavors like apple, grape, mint.... I selected my flavor and she immediately stated that the prices have changed and I should expect to pay $18. So I told asked if you are charging me the elite price for the premium flavors, what is the elite flavor price? She said the same, $18. So I selected a one of the elite flavors. After my charcoals burned down, I had to wave down a waiter each time. On one occasion I waved the man down that demanded my ID and I felt like he pretended to neither hear or see me. When I requested my bill, I was dumbfounded to see that I was charge $8 for extra coals. NEVER have I ever been to a hookah lounge where after the first set of coals have burned, you are charge an additional $4.00 for each request. This is not mentioned on the menu or I would have walked out before taking a seat at the disrespectful no good for nothing lounge. I will never return here again. Don't even waste your dime. After the first set ofcoals, the taste has disappears anyways. This is not the experience I expected or appreciated. It's my observation that they also cater to a Latino group. Either way, the 2 waitresses were Latina and were more attentive to the Latinos or gringos. I am disgusted by my experience. Utterly disgusted. read more

I have been coming here for quite some time now. It's a super chill spot with great service, affordable hookah that last long and good music. Hookah has become pretty popular in the city, and because of that everyone is offering it. Most places charge up to $40 for a hookah that taste like charcoal and last for ten minutes. Parlay is definitely my go to place read more

Cute low key hookah spot. It's not pricey and the drinks/music was good. I also liked the paintings on the wall /decoration.

First time being there and I enjoyed the customer service and the music they were playing. You could request anything song too.

okay so here's why I gave it 2 stars. I used to go to this place all the time when I was in school near by a few years back and I LOVED it. it was (and still is) cozy, comfy. The flavors are good. service . . so this is different the actual servers were good, but the policies of this business are ridiculous. First off, I get there and I'm told to take off my hat... mind you , I've been coming here off and on for years and I've never heard this. so that was strike 1. I've heard no hard before, but I wear fidoras so that's never ever applied to me anywhere I've gone in this city or in this country for thst matter. like, this is Harlem. The Fidora is part of the culture. I just couldn't understand me spending money somewhere and being told what I could and could not wear (which will never happen again). I sucked it up because I was with a friend and decided to take off my hat. Desserts: How you have a Mediterranean theme and you don't have baklava is beyond me .... strike 2 so I took my sneakers off and kind of got cozy while having my apple cider beer (which was really good) and then I'm told to out my shoe on. which I get, but I was already over the place from the dress code thing, the last strike was they bad security that looked like law enforcement . this place is in a good area on 148th and Amsterdam .... like, I've lived over here for years with no problem. the entire area is like young folks in their 20s-30s that go out. we keep the area alive because we go out, eat, drink, and party in this area .... if you implement a dress code that turns people off from wanting to visit your establishment then you've kind of killed your target audience and there are plenty of other places I can go to in the area and get hookah.... that will let me take my hat off and kick my feet up .... probably won't be back here read more

Amazing spot chill and cool. Came couple times very nice atmosphere. Very friendly and so cheap compare to city places. Recommended to everyone. Honesty I smoke hookah a lot & hookah was really good . Thanks read more

Parlay Cafe - Hookah Bars Near Me - New York, New York

My niece is 19 years old and i found her in this hookah lounge they said 21 years and older. I'm very disgusted because he didn't let me in the lounge with my cousin who didn't even have an identification card but let someone in with an 19 year old ID. I'm going to report you to better business bureau read more

If you're looking for a nice hookah spot in Harlem to go to with good music then you should definitely check out Parlay Cafe. They actually play really good music and have hookah available at decent prices (comparable to Astoria). Interestingly enough, Parlay Cafe makes their own hookah flavors instead of buying from the typical brands you may see at other hookah establishments. They also go around each table and change your coals often, which is always a plus. Unlike other hookah lounges uptown, you can pay with a credit card, bring food from another establishment (they do not have a kitchen set up) and purchase beers or cocktails for a reasonable price during your visit. It's conveniently located within walking distance of the 1 train (stop: 145th street), but if you're driving, beware parking in this area might not be easy depending on the hour. read more

Oh Parlay....we've made so many memories together. Good or homely times-- but either way, you did right by me.... I've been here more times than I should probably admit, but I don't care who knows it!! It's worth it----considering it's so conveniently close to my home. Sadly, I've even snuck in here for a smoke alone (gasp--THE HORROR!!). YET, no one cared and I was more than fine enjoying myself. I'm also pretty certain I could've joined other groups but that's a story for another day. Most folks are friendly. They have plenty of TV's for viewing whatever is clever but no sound as music is King here. Laid back atmosphere, friendly service, nice selection of drinks & desserts (if you're into that sort of thing with a hookah) and a pretty adequate space. If you're not into music (upbeat, high tempo music, that is), you may want to go elsewhere. But at the time of evening that this place is open why would you want anything else?? Hookah is decent and gets the job done without a trip to Queens... Affordable prices and surprisingly clean bathroom. read more

I only go there for the hookah & now all of a sudden you have to get a minimum of two drinks! I was applaud when the server and the rude guy who seems to think he's the manager told me that. I told him what makes you think every single individual drinks alcohol ? Since the drinks the server was naming was alcohol. Once i stated that she goes well you can get cranberry or pineapple. They both refused to take my hookah order unless i purchased a drink, i was never told that before and i came here on multiple occasions. Customer service should always be a business number one concern. But they chose to loose out on money(idc how little it may have been) just because they didn't allow me to order without two drinks . You guys need training in customer service or else less people will be going there unless they like to be treated disgustingly. read more

I've come here numerous times for friends birthdays and just last minute plans - they never fail. The seating in the back is so cozy and the staff is friendly. They also have a buy 5 get 1 free beers deal where the beers are about $5 each. read more

Parlay Cafe - a hooket with a hook on it - Hookah Bars Near Me - New York, New York

If I could leave 0 stars I would... if U aren't Hispanic don't come here ! They only cater to a Spanish speaking clientele and it's worse if you're black. They don't want to help or anything! I highly DO NOT RECOMMEND!! read more

Stopped by here on Friday with my best friend for a drink and some hookah. Read the review on yelp and we decided to give it a try. We sat in the back by the sofas which was great! Super cozy and nice decor. Hookahs were great, drinks too! We had the blue mist hookah and the guava as well. Our waitress was very attentive and friendly. Prices were reasonable and music was great!!! We will come back :) it was prefect and exactly what we were looking for. A place where you can actually have a conversation without screaming but still with good music and ambiance. read more

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The owner keeps flagging my review because they can't believe someone came here and didn't enjoy themselves. They find it so impossible that someone could have a bad time here. Well I did. First, the air isn't circulated well so you end up smelling everyone else's tobacco choice for hookah. Have fun with that. I've been to this place MANY times by now and have decided I don't like it. It's loud, VERY LOUD, and you can hear annoying ghetto music down the street as you approach. I always leave this place with a headache. I've been several times now, but last weekend was my last. read more

Good hookah, decent prices, play good music. Why the 2 stars? Horrible customer service. I accidentally brought outside alcohol in the cafe. The manager assured me he'll keep it in the back for me not to drink on premises. No problem, having been there before never having any issues. Later I asked the server girl for it and she said she poured it out. Excuse me? Not even a real genuine apology for it. Then gave me attitude for being upset about my money being poured down the drain without any orders to do so. Turned me so off. Other than that it's a cool place. read more

Everyone is super accommodating. The prices are also very responsible and the female dj is on point. I would recommend you check this place out, it's a nice little vibe read more

The hookah here is one of the best I've had. It's very reasonably priced and the flavors were still going strong nearly 2 hours in (I was sharing with one other person). The staff are very friendly and attentive. A guy came around maybe 4 times when we were there and cleared the ash from the chamber on top where the shisha goes which made the draw much smoother. Once they get their liquor license (some time in August, they said), this place will be complete! One thing I personally didn't like was the decor/ambiance. I typically like hookah bars to be more laid back and quiet enough so that I can talk with friends. Parlay cafe had loud top 40 music and several large TVs tuned in on ESPN. I say play some chiller music and lower the volume. read more

It was cool at first then a couple people came and service slacked. Girl was playing uno but not taking care of their customers. Then they had the nerve to charge a 20% fixed gratuity. Hookah it self was good. But I learned in intro to management that customer service is the number one factor to a business. This business failed to do that. read more

There was nothing particularly "bad" about my experience, it was just really, "meh, I've experienced better." First, they don't have a liquor license, so they only serve wine and beer= Boo! The wine is cheap and taste horrible. The place is really loud, like club/bar noise so it makes it hard to have a conversation, so this wouldn't be a good place for a date. It's located in harlem, but you'd think it was El Barro. Spanish music the entire night with three raps/hip hop songs and one reggae in the rotation. I will stay the staff was nice, at least to us. The waitress was attentive and friendly. There was a "manager" walking around asking how everyone was doing and when I complained about the music, they did switch up the music somewhat. All in all, this place is good for a younger crowd. High school/early college. There were a lot of super young people...and several dance competitions, both privately and encouraged by the staff ? read more

Started off nice, Nesh was friendly at first. Told my friend: "Wow this is better service than Lucky 7 tapas bar." He responds: "Yea because nobody is here." He was right.. As soon as 8 people arrived, (all seemed to be regulars) we stopped getting service. The hookah gentleman remained on point though. I fully understand if a place is busy, I can't be served within 2 minutes, I'm naturally extremely patient. But just because the regulars are your friends, that shouldn't mean to completely forget about your new customers. I asked Nesh for another Corona, I literally got it half hour later because she sat down to play UNO right next to me with an customer who was there alone. Must be nice. I sat and stared for a few seconds... Looked at my friend..utter disbelief. I may return in the Autumn because I love Harlem. Everyone has an off day and some people deserve a second chance. read more

I came here for the second time last night with a couple of my coworkers as a final farewell as most of them were leaving New York. Two of them were first timers and I really enjoyed this place the first time I came, so I suggested stopping by. It definitely feels more modern than most hookah places (aka TVs, Billboard Top 100 music, Junior's Cheesecakes, etc) but I don't really mind that, and they have a more cushiony area in the back. There were 5 of us and we sat there for maybe 2 hours-ish. One of the guys running the place pulled me over when he was getting the check for us and told me that we would need to spend more money because it was supposed to be $7 per person and we hadn't used up that amount. I told him I was confused because our waitress hadn't mentioned that before, and instead of having to argue, the guy was super chilled and told me not to worry about it. Our waitress came over and also apologized about it. It think it's great when a staff acknowledges making a mistake and lets things slide. It really made the experience that much better and we left a bigger than normal tip. I would definitely recommend this place, just make sure you spend at least $7 (which is still a pretty sweet deal). read more

Best Hookah lounge around! I cannot say enough how much I absolutely enjoy the hookah at Parlay cafe. Downtown the hookah is overpriced and terrible. I travel domestically and internationally quite often and have not found hookah quite as smooth as here at Parlay. The owner, is such a welcoming and accommodating guy! You can really see he cares about his customers and his business evident in the small details at Parlay. At Parlay you'll hear a really good mix of hip hop/reggaeton/soca feel good music. The drinks are reasonably priced and I absolutely love that you can bring your own eats. If you're looking for a place to relax and smoke some quality hookah, this is it!!!! read more

Love love love this place! My go to hookah spot. There's a night for everyone. If you don't like the large crowd scene then the week day is more for you. Very chill vibes and a very personal experience. On weekends it's more of a larger crowd and louder music, still very enjoyable. The waitresses make their round to you enough where it's not too overwhelming. The hookahs are the star of the show. Very affordable prices. Authentic Arabic hookah and tea if you wanna just chill or hookah and a drink if you wanna relax. I come here very often and the service is very consistent which I really appreciate too. read more

Great addition to the neighborhood! Hookah, desserts, coffee, tea, and smoothies. Liquor license "on the way." read more

Parlay Cafe - Hookah and NBA finals at the Parlay! - Hookah Bars Near Me - New York, New York

I've been here a couple of times and it's always chill vibes. The music is always on point. Only thing I would have to say is sometimes the hookah is harsh and drinks a little overpriced but other than that good spot. read more

As a regular customer I find it very hard to believe that some people would claim they did not enjoy their time at Parlay. I have been going to Parlay since they have opened and have witnessed a lot of their transitions. The owner and staff are always working on ways to make parlay better everyday for all there customers. The staff is extremely friendly and just stepping inside makes you feel homie with how welcoming they are. If you're looking for a great place to chill please try this spot out I highly recommend it. They have great hookah and music and a wide selection of drinks. I hope this is helpful to those we have been questioning my favorite local spot. read more

Really great hookah lounge, especially considering how close it is to me! They use good quality shisha and pack the bowls well. They use Coco Nara coals, which in my experience is pretty uncommon for the default coal of a hookah lounge. It's a nice touch. I'll definitely be coming back frequently. read more

I gave Parlay one star and that was for the DJ. If your accustomed to a proper lounge/cafe just in general then run! This is a pretentious, neighborhood dive with champagne dreams and a Budweiser Lime-A-Rita reality. Extremely poor to non existent business etiquette and customer service. Again run away!! Young local crowd. Beer, wine, coffee, tea, dessert, hookah menu. Hard alcohol available only upon inquiry, its not listed on the menu for some odd reason...huh? So, don't expect any specialty cocktails here, oh yeah there's no bartender. Another word of caution: Regardless of how frequently you order drinks, if a group requesting bottle service needs your table you will be told to move! Also, theres an automatic gratuity of 25% on anything you order! read more

This place is a nice spot to hang out. It's really casual and they have really nice couches in the back. Unfortunately, they didn't have ANYTHING I wanted to order off the menu... I had to ask for 6 different things before one was available. They didn't even have fresh fruit shisha available. The shisha was okay but burned out pretty quick. Overall, it's a nice spot since it's close to home but I wish they had more variety and consistency from their menu. read more

The hookah is horrible quality and it's too hood raunchy for my style. If you want a turn up club atmosphere then enjoy but don't go for the hookah read more

Dope spot. I went here to hang out after a long day of school. I go to city college right by this spot. They're the only proper hookah lounge around the area. The staff is super chill and even let us play whatever music we wanted too. The hookah is decent and coal changes were done right on time. read more

I came in once while waiting for my laundry to dry. I overheard the employees using extremely homophobic remarks, repeatedly, while discussing customers and people they they have seen. To be fair, this was awhile ago, and maybe the staff has changed, but I felt sufficiently unwelcome that I have not been back. Not cool. read more

Horrible management, the dj is YouTube, and the crowd is way young. Tried the place twice, never again.

A most welcome addition to the neighborhood! Living next door to Parlay is a plus. The place is great. Very inexpensive, decent wines, delicious hookah, fun staff. If you spend $15 a person you get to smoke in the fun cushiony area in the back. Nothing but the best for me! read more

Came here on a Saturday night to ease my mind a bit with some cousins. Had a great time. We ordered a hookah mixed with mint and sex on the beach. It was wonderful. Didn't burn too fast. The service was great I had no complaints. The music was very good as well. I will definitely be frequenting this spot. Naomi attended us she's awesome. Love her personality. read more

Enjoyed a girl's night out here and I am definitely looking forward to my return visit.... Really chilled spot with nice music. From the crowd, I did feel like I was in the Heights but the energy was amazing! This spot is perfect if you want to just have an intimate, chilled, good time. Hookah was great, we had the Blue Mist plus Mint flavor and they only sell beer and wine. Im not sure if the limit on liquor is temporary or permanent but it worked out because that is all my friends and I needed. But don't come here looking for shots. The service was awesome. Our waitress was really cute and checked on us to make sure we were enjoying things through the night. At one point she was singing on the mic and passed it to me and of course I started singing and the entire place was jamming all together! So much fun:) Like I said, I could see my self frequenting this spot and I encourage you guys to check it out;-) read more