0 Followers
Laguna Cafe
Master Critic Review
Laguna Cafe
8.0
A hookah lounge-meets-Middle Eastern café, Laguna is known for its late-night vibe, solid mezzes, and relaxed social atmosphere. Locals come for the hookah experience but stay for the hummus, falafel, and kebabs. It’s one of the few spots in the neighborhood to blend dining and lounge in one space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hummus & warm pita, Chicken Kebab, Falafel platter
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Hookah + dining in one Middle Eastern lounge
Who should go: Late-night socializers and casual groups
When to visit: Evenings through after midnight
What to order: Hummus & pita, Chicken Kebab, Falafel platter
Insider tip: Pay per person is required for hookah, not per pipe
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be tough after 7pm, especially on weekends. Best bet is to park a few blocks toward the Panhandle and walk.
Dress code: Smart casual—most guests lean semi-dressy at night, especially for the lounge vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—music and hookah chatter create energy but normal conversation is still possible in smaller groups.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation; walk-ins often wait longer after 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 6pm; tables open quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many mezze options and mains are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited but available—falafel platter, baba ghanoush, and some salads qualify.
Gluten-free options: Partial options—grilled meats and salads work well; pita and wraps contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Laguna’s moody lighting, hookah setup, and mellow soundtrack make it a relaxed yet playful choice for a casual first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes before 8pm; after that, especially on weekends, a short wait is likely. Reservations recommended for groups over four.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to the hookah smoke and late-night crowd. Teens might be fine earlier in the evening before the lounge atmosphere builds.
Best For
Better for: Late-night hangs, group hookah sessions, and social dining with a Middle Eastern twist.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet family meal or strictly smoke-free environment.