25-01 Steinway St, Astoria, NY 11103
There's no shortage of hookah or shisha bars in Queens, but this new one, which is also a dessert destination, ramps up the luxury. It's owned by Abhi Malhotra, who founded King Luxe Club in Westbury, N.Y., for high-end car collectors like himself, and Salil Mehta, the chef and owner of Wau, Laut and Singapura in Manhattan. Sleekly modern yet fitted with plush banquettes indoors, and additional outdoor heated seating, it offers more than 30 shisha flavors and a variety of smoking devices. A nonalcoholic drinks list includes teas and coffees, featuring Turkish coffee brewed over hot sand. Mr. Mehta's desserts are elaborate: a yuzu cake with finger limes, meringue and orange mousse; Turkish sand coffee affogato with gold leaf; a baklava cone with pistachios and soft serve; and a sizzling brownie with soft serve. Savory plates like hummus with crudites are also available.