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You'd have to be high on something other than cantaloupe-flavored shisha to open up a hookah bar a few blocks away from king Karma. But the Egyptian owner of this boxcar-sized upstart did just that. Although the almost nonexistent lighting and the red walls—minimally appointed with bowls and fans—nod at his competition’s rep for illicit acts, the couches are better suited for post-work unwinding than late-night misbehavior...even if the place is open until 2 a.m. As for the shisha, it's available in 45 flavors, from the usual fruits and flowers to cola and cognac. (Mix them together if you're craving a smoked cocktail). The tobacco buzz is bolstered by a soundtrack that globe-trots from afro-beat to electric flamenco to Arabic dance. — Daniel Maurer

Looking for something different? You'll be rewarded for asking what libations aren't on the menu much as you would at a Moroccan open-air market.