This is the perfect spot to unwind with friends--great for good conversation, relaxing vibes, and enjoying music together. The building is a bit on the older side, but it honestly adds to the charm. Every visit has been consistently enjoyable, and I always leave having had a great time. Easy 5/5 experience! DJ is always great! You cannot leave without trying their amazing Kabobs! read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge has some positives, but it also comes with major drawbacks. The food is good, and when everything is fresh it's enjoyable. Hookahs, on the other hand, are inconsistent -- sometimes smooth, sometimes harsh, and not always worth the price. The environment is decent before 9pm, when it feels like a casual spot to grab a bite and relax. Unfortunately, after 9pm, the atmosphere changes drastically. The crowd and overall vibe make it feel more unsafe than enjoyable, which takes away from what could otherwise be a great night out. If you're just here for food and an early evening, you'll probably be fine. Anything later than that, I can't recommend this place as a safe or relaxing option. read more

The positives: the spot is a nice vibe. Lounge sofas, hookah, cozy, ample parking, good location, security, and *the FOOD is very good". The other stuff: the music is vey good but SO loud. You are unable to hear the people you are with and at a point, I thought I started to get a headache. Since the space is small and there is a DJ, the music could be turned down a bit. The place gets very packed later in the evening so it impacts service (slower). The baklava is the absolute worst I have ever had. I never knew bad baklava existed...so while the food is delicious, hard pass on this dessert. Smoking (cigarettes) is allowed inside. Check your receipt: their math doesn't math for tip amounts. read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - receipt for restaurant - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

The vibes are super chill, great music and the servers provide a delightful service. I always invite my friends to come to sahara for a good time. The food is also super bomb !! read more

First time coming, definitely not coming back. Customer service: The hubby and I came here for hookah and drinks and wasn't impressed. The place was dead when we walked in on a Saturday night (around 8pm) which I thought would be a good thing because the service should be good and fast...boy was I wrong. Our server NEVER checked on us. We had to call him over and get his attention each time we needed something. Instead of him attending to his ONLY customers, he stayed looking down on his phone, smoking hookah, chilling on one of the couches and never asked if we needed anything. This happened multiple times while we were there. When we were done, we tried several times to get his attention but he never looked up from his phone. Eventually my husband had to get up and walk over to him to get his attention. Food: we ordered the wings and calamari. The wings were actually pretty good but the calamari wasn't. The Sahara cocktail was pretty watered down, however the mango mojito was very good and refreshing. Overall, the hookah, wings, and mango mojito was good but the customer service on an empty night was bad enough that it canceled out the good. Imagine how terrible the service is on a busy night. If they'll ignore you when it's empty, I can't imagine they would be pay attention to you as a customer when it's busy. read more

Good club I enjoy there. super Good employees and the owner is super chill! I come here often since the people and ambience is super nice. The drinks and food are amazing! The Hookah and the amount of flavors are good as well. Definitely recommend this place to everyone since it's a nice place to chill and celebrate or even party! read more

Food and staff were very respectful and food was amazing. Would highly recommend this place. Music, dancing and hookahs.

Staff is very friendly and accommodating, Food is always fresh and delicious. Weekends are the time to go if you want to enjoy your time with friends!! read more

Sahara Restaurant & Hookah Lounge in Sterling, Virginia, offers authentic Lebanese cuisine, a full bar, hookah, live DJs, and belly dancing. Overall, Sahara Restaurant & Hookah Lounge provides a vibrant nightlife experience with entertainment options, though opinions on the food and beverages vary. read more

I have never been in a better place in my life, the best hookah and food available. Great customer service!!!! Definitely a must experience!!! read more

love mark love sahara. they have a DJ on thursdays, fridays and saturdays. i highly recommend their Shawarma pizza it's really really good

The food is very good and they have excellent service. They have hookah I tried the grape flavor and it was good

If you want the worst type of middle eastern food, then go here. I can't comment on the vibe or the club in there because I got takeout. However, the tabouli, hummus, shawarma, and even the bread was not edible. I totally regret ordering from them and would never order again. The hummus was full of tahini and no flavor. The tabouli had hardly chopped parsley and sliced onions--yes sliced onions for tabouli???! And the Shawarma was old meat that they wrapped together. read more

Omg guys today I try a new drink from Sahara I asked them to surprised me with fruity drink and let me tel you this they have such good drinks, so if you looking for a good food, drinks and music definitely come here! read more

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It's good place and good Dj and has a good food and has good customer service, the person who makes the hookahs fulfill the requirements you might have and their really helpful read more

I love Sahara! I'd recommend for friends and family :) Where they provide good hookah, food and live dj.

Excellent experience, All the food was amazing the first time we went. The drinks were great and the music was on point. The second time we went in the food wasn't as good the wings looked weird and didn't taste right. So perhaps the food is a hit or miss depending on what you get. read more

I love this place so much! I have fun here every weekend with friends. I enjoy the music and vibes that this place gives off. Everyone is friendly and active ti attending to everyone's needs. read more

I used to come here years ago and it was great but now the service has been terrible the last times I've had came. I waited today I ordered around 9pm and it's almost 10pm just for the employee to tell me my food can't be ready because the machine is broken. Unacceptable. read more

overcharged and ended up paying whole bunch of drink and food we didn't even order They overcharged us every time we went there so check your receipt when you got the check read more

The best hookah lounge in dmv they have the best shawarma and the best, Customer service

I can't recognize this place anymore. Hookah, tea and food were HORRIBLE and one cup of green tea with 2 leaves of mint cost now 6$ LOL. This is ridiculous!!! Was the owner changed? Will never venture into this place EVER again. read more

Called on Friday to place large carry out for a birthday lunch -6 dinners, 2 veggie platters, 3 halloumi -for order Saturday pick up. Was told I had to call back when they opened Saturday at noon. Called as directed Saturday at noon. Was able to place the order with a person and was given a 30 minute pick up ( aka 12:30). Arrived at 12:32. No lights on, door locked. Tried calling 4 times on one phone, 2 times on another- not only no answer but finally message kicked in that message couldn't be left. Even drove around to the back, hoping at least a cook was back there , but no. Nobody around at all! Left parking lot just after 1 pm and ordered carry out Mexican in Reston which was great. At 3 pm, received call from restaurant asking why food wasn't picked up - 2.5 hrs after it was supposed to be ready! Explained what had happened - door locked, no lights, 6 phone calls and a half hour wait hoping someone would either unlock the doors or at least answer one of the 6 phone numbers showing up on their phone and explain some kind of emergency ! It was Just someone identifying as the manager on a phone call asking why we weren't picking up an approx. $200 lunch order! Terrible disappointment for the birthday lunch and only positive was knowing we will never be back! Gotta turn on those lights and unlock those doors and start cooking that food when someone calls in an order guys!one star because I can't give negative stars! read more

Good find in the sterling area. they are open late. Service is anywhere between non-existent and super-non-existent..! We tried to return 2 unopened bottles of water (because, OF COURSE they charge for water , right?!), and the server was super rude and said he could not change the check! The Hookah was pretty decent and the drinks were more like sugar water with a splash of your choice of alcohol. so I would skip the drinks. I would only come here on a full stomach and with no drink cravings.. JUST for the hookah! That's what the 2 stars are for! Oh! and the fruit hookah is BOG hoax! The fruit (usually a stale watermelon) contributes NOTHING to the hookah flavor, so save yourself the time and money! Invest the same money in getting another regular hookah maybe! read more

The food gets 5 stars. I've dropped down to 4 only because it was fairly pricey (especially for lunch). YELP - why don't you allow 1/2 stars? My friend and I started with a vegetarian appetizer platter. It had all things I don't like - humus, baba ganoush, tabouleh, falafel. Each one was more delicious than the rest! I had the pomegranate lamb which was tender and juicy. The pomegranate ($1 more than regular lamb) added more flavor to the rice than the lamb but was an interesting touch. The platter came with a smallish salad. My friend got chicken (sorry - I've forgotten what kind) that was also delicious. We ended with baklava. I was skeptical when they brought it because it didn't look like I'm used to seeing baklava. It was delicious and especially airy and flaky because of how they do the phylo. I will definitely return! read more

They place reservation cards on tables that are currently seating parties and then try to move people around to smaller tables to accommodate, which isn't bad enough if the owner didn't literally yell at customers who try to mention how rude this practice is. The owner plays it nice with most people and most people know him as much but I saw a different side. He is clearly a ruthless business man who cares nothing for his customers' enjoyment, and only for his "Saturday night bottom line" (it was a Friday). His waitress had to practically drag him off of me while he screamed his business priorities at me. This practice has been attempted several times in many years of patronizing this place Edit: since I don't know yelp that well, and don't seem to be able to reply to comments I'll leave it here. No thats not true, unfortunately. The table was not "reserved" when I sat at it. You placed the card on the table moments before informing me to move. But that's fine, think whatever you want. You also don't have to tolerate my speech. However, I'm free to speak however I wish in public and you can't bar me from that in any way. That's censorship, whether it's by the government or not. It's not the society we live in, whether you like it or not. Your practices are still deplorable as a business and as a business owner and that still stands. And people will still know about it, I'm not the one on trial here. But thanks for again showing your true colors by trying to disgrace a customer for making a critique of your business. read more

I've only been here once. I couldn't tell who the workers were since the room was dim, to set the ambiance. I could not tell if there was security as there was a random dude hanging around the entrance who didn't know how to say "excuse me". Pretty interesting as I was first walking in. The servers were all unique in their own way. They were all nice enough,one kind of clueless,she was probably new. I think the servers were kind of busy and overwhelmed. It took a while for them to make their around to see if we needed to be seated. This was probably because there were a patrons lingering in the doorway blocking the view making phone calls, trying to avoid the cold. Our servers was one of the possible owners and a cute curvy Spanish chick wearing a Santa hat. The rest of the servers I believe wore cute red ties,which I thought was a nice touch. Whenever I did look around to see if anybody could assist me, the employees were usually busy or hard at work attending business in the back. This is usually the case on Hollidays when everyone flakes so they can do their minute shopping. One was clueless when I asked to split the tab. This made me sad because my companion can be a "Scrooge" and I wanted to leave a decent tip. She was probably new or to preoccupied with the holiday rush like most of us. I was here for 2 hours but by the first 15 minutes,was awkward. There's not a lot of space between the tables so if you have curves be careful sliding in so your booty isn't in some random person face. ;) Also if you have limited mobility you may wish to call ahead so they can adjust a table for you. The friendly owners will also allow you to bring your service animal. The food was good. They were nice enough to make me a custom salad. Which was awesome. When it came out it was huge,it literally filled the whole plate. The kibbeh's were huge,the size of a cue ball. I don't know if this is true but I've heard they have a lunch buffet. If they do park in the handicapped spot and bring a wheelchair to roll you out of the place and into your car. What's cool about this place is they have a split section. Half of the restaurant can be for smoking and non-smoking. What I also like is, while you are at the table they prefer you not smoke cigarettes. Which is great for me because I hate the smell of cigarettes. I know that sounds hypocritical but I do. However there is a place at the bar where I believe you can smoke your "cancer sticks" Yes,I said bar. This is not a dry establishment! They have a full-service bar. This is great for those who require an adult beverage. Try the Almaza beer,it's delicious! The interior is nice and clean. The hookah was a good set, lasted a while, I'll give them that. I got the "Rose" flavor which was unlike any Rose flavor I've ever hard. It didn't have that sweetness I've had everywhere else. It would definitely be awesome to mix with another sweet flavor like peach or orange...trust me on this. The music was interesting Dub-step,Lil Wayne,Harlem Shake,Skrillex... One song actually made me crack up laughing. This was probably the result of a younger customer requesting some music. It's nice the owners are friendly and have a sense of humor and made the accommodation. The crowd was interesting. A mix of all shapes sizes and races. Some were dressed like they were going clubbing or an extra in 8 Mile. To their defense it is hard to be fashionable when you're wearing three layers of clothes to fight off the cold. Someone had swiped the dessert menu off my table. This really bummed me out because when I snagged a menu off another the table the desserts looked and sounded awesome! I honestly would come here to people watch, and their regular and premium hookah. I also want to come back with a group of friends and order every dessert I saw on the menu. Unfortunately, I live far away and I'm stuck paying $20 for a hookah along with ratchet baklava and kanafeh in my neighborhood. As always, don't take my word for it. Come check this place out yourself. Preferably on the weekend because I heard this place is popping. read more

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Restaurant was empty when we entered in the middle of a Sunday afternoon. Just after the lunch crowd, just before the dinner crowd. So, we had the whole place to ourselves. And we had a wonderful meal. To begin, they served piping hot, fresh, and delicious khubz. I was surprised that the bread didn't come with a spread of any kind. We did ask for garlic puree to go with the bread. Wonderful. Ordered the mixed grill combination platter. Large plate with ample food. Rice was fresh, light, and tasty. Perfect complement to the rest of the dish. Meats were cooked to order and delectably marinated. Veggies were outstanding. I ordered the meats prepared well done, since most places undercook the meat. However, Sahara actually cooked the meat to well done. Made the meat slightly dry and tough. But, that's what I ordered. I recommend ordering medium well at most. Decor is outstanding given the strip mall location. Server was sweet and helpful. Menu is large. A great place to introduce someone to Lebanese food. Nice for families. I would have guessed the menu was overpriced, but after this meal, I think it's a good deal. Would be happy to return and try more items. read more

One of my favorites to go to! A very social atmosphere. A great place and lounge to go out with friends, amazing DJ and music taste, great drinks, and amazing hookah! Service is so kind and wonderful, they get to you as soon as they can since it does get pretty packed and busy in there! read more

Fantastic experience! We've been coming to this establishment for a few years and it's better every time. Our server, Mason, is by far the best we have had here. We look forward to our next visit! If you are looking for a shisha mix suggestion, we really enjoyed the Pirates cove mixed with mint! read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Bar area - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

I returned for the second time and had a nice dinner at Sahara last night. We ordered the GrilledPlatter (almost $18) and a Vege Platter (almost $9). While we were waiting for the order, we noticed a slight change in the setup. They had two Lebanese musicians playing the traditional instrument, one gentleman who was very skilled at playing Lute (the traditional guitar like instrument) and a lady with sagat (Finger cymbals). At times music was pretty loud making it difficult to have a dinner conversation but quiet entertaining. The gentleman singing and playing the instrument was talented and we enjoyed his singing. This act alone raised their profile in my eyes as I am a sucker for good music. Food came hot and presentation was very nice. Hummus was great and the grilled lamb was my favorite. I still felt a tad lack of flavor in other grilled meats but the other side items made up for the missing flavor. I had a decent conversation with the couple who run the restaurant towards the end and interestingly enough the owner recognized me from my first review on Yelp! it made for a good laugh. I enjoyed my chat with them. The restaurant is family friendly, the food is pretty decent and the entertainment made for a lively night. I would ask you to try out the place for yourself and share your thoughts. read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Vege Platter - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

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Worst place I have ever been .. the waiters are so stupid they don't even ask how is it going even like 2 times for the 5 hours .. It's so stupid and I wasted my Friday night read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Worst place .. the waiter did not Even ask how is it going. I have been for 5 hrs she came 3 times may be ... don't go this so study place. - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

Great food, chicken shawarma entree here never disappoints. Drinks and hookah are on point. Live DJ 5 days a week. Staff are very friendly and tentative. Absolutely recommend this place. read more

Great customer service! Also great if want to have a relaxing time with some friends. Overall I would come here again

Good food, decent service, outrageous prices. We paid over $50 for the mezza platter (which was delicious) but the quantity for two people was laughable. We ordered Carry-out, so we didn't get to see the service in action. read more

Sahara restaurant is delllicccious. I've actually only been there once, but I was very happy with the quality and quantity of food as well as the service. Our waitress was incredibly friendly, and very quick to get us refills and help us with anything. In fact, the one time we _did_ go there we were a bit early (showed up before they were open) and the waitress let us in anyway! She let us have a seat and she even gave us some snacks! Hah! If you go to Sahara you won't be disappointed. Enjoy! read more

My faith has been RESTORED at my favorite Hookah spot in NOvA!!!! After my last incident the owners reached out to me and invited me back and apologized for the rude hostess! I had my usual amazing service and my cousin enjoyed it is well! I tried the meat and hummus appetizer this time and it was amazing--and I do not normally eat hummus! I love the owners (they are wife and husband) of this establishment---they are amazing and warm people! I will continue to go back to Sahara and support! Thanks Nasser and Manal you guys are great! Thanks for caring about your customers! read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Two flavors! - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

Excellent hookah excellent service great flavors and great music. The server was awesome and exceptional service. Chilled beer and square charcoal extra good. Love it and will come again. We rate it five out of five. read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

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Horrible service and intense up charging going on all night.. a few friends and I stopped here to celebrate a birthday, all was fine in the beginning other than the server constantly pushing us to buy more and pushing us to order alcoholic drinks (EVEN AFTER WE MENTIONED THAT WE WERE NOT 21.) The night was alright after he decided he had had enough of trying to push us to buy drinks. An hour after we had eaten and were enjoying ourselves, we had two more friends come join us and the server refused to allow them to stay unless they gave him their credit cards. He claimed he would charge them the $15 minimum seeing as they weren't going to spend any money, keep in mind they had just walked in and had not been given time to look at the menu. Anyways, feel free to stop by here if you're looking to get hounded all night for not drinking alcohol or if you feel like not being allowed in until your server gets to hold on to your form of payment! Side note: the owner was very accommodating each time the server pulled him to our table; our experience that night, in my opinion, does not reflect poorly on the business, it solely reflects poorly on the server. read more

Sahara Restaurant and Lounge - Gyro platter - Lebanese Near Me - Sterling, Virginia

I'm glad I stopped here despite the mixed reviews. My food was delicious! I ordered the mixed grill and the hummus appetizer to go. I didn't realize that the mixed grill came with hummus or I wouldn't have ordered the side. Menu is unclear about what is included, but they did substitute more fatoush for the rice I didn't want. The garlic sauce was awesome (i love that stuff!), hummus was flavorful, fatoush was fresh and crisp, and the lamb and chicken were both very good. Oh, and the bread! Delicious. I killed that dinner. read more