by Allyson D.

last time i went (about a year ago), samah had gone downhill. i once thought they were one of the best restaurants in chicago, but this time, the lentil soup was watery and bland. and my kebab kinda sucked too.i'm not sure if they still serve food anymore after the tobacco laws took effect at the beginning of this year - most hookah bars can't serve food anymore - but with the way the quality of their food jumped the shark, it'd probably be the best thing for them. samah is amazing. EXPENSIVE, but well worth it. this is one of my favorite places in chicago.it's an…

by Louay B.

A bit pricey for middle eastern food.  Also the place seemed to be filled with teenagers, who were acting as if the tobacco in the hookah was, "messin me up" - a quote from the group sitting beside us.  I wasn't a fan of this place, maybe because of the crowd, or maybe because I didn't like the food.  You can get better food at Zad's for half the cost.

by nizzi b.

Fun nights spent here with Becky P. This is the best hookah place I've been to, and I've been everywhere. The decor is beautiful and almost magical, and private rooms! Why doesn't everyone take a page from them? I know I'm going to end up hating this place in a few months. Too many asshole college kids are catching on, and coming from an elitist college asshole, I know when to abandon ship.

by Rebecca B.

I just love this place--good food and great hookah selections. I wouldn't make the trip for the food alone, but the hookah options and great atmosphere at Sameh pushes it over the top as one of my current favorites. We've done the dreamsicle, orange-mint, and vanilla-blackberry--all yummy. It's a great alternative to the typical libation/lounge scene, for a romantic date or just catching up with your pals.

by Sara W.

Samah was the first hookah bar I went to when I moved here three years ago, and I've been going back since.  Great selection of flavors-lemon mint, fahkfahina, and almost all of the fruit flavors are my group's usual favorites.  All of the food I've had is very good and reasonably priced.  Going with a group is the easiest way-$10 a person for unlimited soda/tea/coffee, whatever you'd like and one refill a person which I don't think we've ever actually gotten to due to the time limit and oversmoking ourselves-but it's always worth it and has been a fun place to take friends from out of town too!

by Nicole J.

To be completely honest, I think hookah-ing is a little cheesy.  Forgive me if I don't really see the appeal of sitting on the floor, pretending you own piles of gold coins and Moroccan trinkets as you jest about pretty shrouded ladies dancing saucy dances for you.  Nonetheless, their pistachio tobacco is quite savory.  We also had a fun time with the "Hawaiian Boobs" flavor...for obvious reasons.We rolled in there with two bottles of wine only to find out we couldn't have them because "people get really sick when they smoke and drink...and [they] have carpet to clean."  Really?  Take a look at the smokers' line outside of any bar in the city.  They seem to be able to handle it.  And how was I supposed to be my charming, attractive, and witty self in such a situation without downing a few ice-breakers first?  In a private room no less?!  I tried my best.

by pam p.

I've never eaten here; this place is pretty great as a Hookah lounge goes. But only *if* you make a reservation and have a booth. My current bf took me here on one of our first dates; it was fucking magical, so of course I have a tiny little sentimental attachment. If you don't have a reservation, skip it. The tables out in the front are not comfortable AT ALL. We went back again once w/o a res, and shared a hookah at the glass tables in front. We actually had to move twice b/c the tables were wobbly! Needless to say, this time there was no fucking magic. jerks.But I will def be back, *with reservations*, to relive those warm and cozy, hookah-smoking-new-love feelin's.p.s. stop charging for water

by liz d.

After taking my own advice, I made reservations. We were seated in a private room, but were also given a time limit. Whatever. We smoked up our hookah pretty quickly, so it wasn't a problem. Our server gave us some excellent recommendations, we were even fighting over some of them. "Puff puff pass. You're taking too long, keep it moving!" Seriously you may ask? Yes. They were that good. Variety of great hookah to choose from. Tip. Make reservations and get one of the curtained off…

by Stephenie Z.

Pros: THE BEST HOOKAH FLAVORS IN CHICAGO, period.  Fantastic music, wonderful seating ONLY IF you get a private room, great ambiance, good price packages.Cons : Incredibly annoying incompetent management (enough to turn hundreds away), overpriced food, overpriced water, incompetent management, terrible seating in the front room...did I mention a terribly incompetent and borderline retarded manager?Things to remember : Don't you DARE walk in on a Friday or Saturday night without a reservation and wait for a tiny table in the front room - you WILL be turned off.  Make reservations a week ahead of time.  Its a good place for a first date, a group of friends, or any other occasion.  When you call ahead to make your reservation, have the person explain in crystal-clear detail how much time you'll have...its unnecessary, but you'll be glad you did.If you like hookah and have the patience of an Indonesian monk, you'll love Samah.

by Lisa C.

First, let me start off by saying - I used to LOVE this place when I first started going here. "Used To" being the key phrase. I went here for my birthday this year. I booked a reservation for 15 people. We arrived right on time, but had to wait about 15 minutes for our room. Ok, no biggie. Little did we know that we were only allowed an HOUR in the room, and the hour began as soon as our reservation time began- so the 15 minutes they took to usher us to our room was taken out of OUR reservation time. After about 30 minutes of being in the room, it was 15 minutes to the hour. A few more people had joined our group, and they were told they had to pay $10 to join us, even though they would not be smoking. Ok, again, not a big deal. However, almost IMMEDIATELY after they paid, a manager (If I remember correctly, his name was Imran), entered the room and rudely informed us that our "Clock is ticking" and told us we only had 15 minutes left in the room, so we'd better hurry up. We mentioned that the people who had just arrived had just paid and that seemed unfair, and that the people who had ordered food had JUST received it, and that they hadn't seated us until only 30 minutes ago. He rudely rebutted that when the reservation was made, we should have been told we only had an hour to stay. Not feeling like arguing, we let it go and rushed to smoke our hookah and finish our food. About 5 minutes later, our waiter and the manager, Imran, came back and tried taking our hookah away, even though we were rushing to finish it. We told them that we still had 10 minutes left according to them, therefore we'd like to enjoy our last 10 minutes. They gave us attitude and again said very nastily "YOUR CLOCK IS TICKING"We were so disgusted with the service and management here. I do not blame the server, I blame the manager, who was downright rude and nasty. I can not remember the exact amount of our bill, but they had to have made roughly $170-$200 off of us that night ($10 per person, 15 people, and food and extra drinks ordered) within 45 minutes time, and they treated us like absolute CRAP.  I will NEVER go back there!If you're looking for a good hookah lounge, you're better off going to Sigara on Division in Wicker Pk. The staff and management are more relaxed, they've NEVER rushed us out, they actually serve alcohol, and are much, much friendlier.

by Todd S.

I used to frequent this place quite a bit back in 2004/2005 when a friend worked there.  I loved, and still love, the decor and overall feel of the place with regard to layout.  But the quality and service seem to have taken a hit, since I was gone. When I returned, I was SHOCKED that you could not get a glass of water, unless you want to shell out 3bux for Fiji.Smoke is an irritant (my favorite irritant) and they have the gall to charge for water?Ridiculous. The food was about the same as I remember (the vegetarian platter is great),  but the servers were not nearly as friendly, and willing to chat (even during a completely dead time) as before. Go to sigara, or (if you're like me and really love smoking) go a block south of Samah, and get your own hookah.  This place has fallen off.

by Kelly H.

IF you go here, do NOT pay by credit card!My friend and I currently have fraud charges pending against Samah and I have contacted the Better Business Bureau.As Samah includes an automatic 18% gratuity to your bill, I didn't find it necessary to leave an additional tip. It's not that the service was poor- it was quite nice, actually. But at Samah, you don't order alcohol...and there are only appetizers, not meals, so what exactly am I going to pay more than 18% for? If I want to, that's my prerogative, no? Well apparently someone at Samah thinks they can add whatever they'd like to your credit card.I distinctly remember crossing off the tip portion on my bill and signing for the base amount. My friend did as well. The next morning she calls me, discovering and additional $4 charge to her part of the bill. I check my online statement and there was an additional $3.If Samah wants you to leave a 40% tip, they need to put THAT on your credit card bill.It's not a bad place. I love the atmosphere...but something shady is going on there. I hope they catch who did this. Meanwhile, pay cash.

by Emmy W.

Got friends together for my last birthday here, and managed to get one of the bigger rooms with the (melt-into-comfy) couches. I only prefer coming to get their party deal, where 4 or more people pay ten bucks and get free refills on certain beverages (including Diet Coke and mint tea, both of which I usually get). You also get as many hookah flavors as you have people in your group, so at least four, which is more than enough for the timeslot (I forget how long it is anymore). I haven't been since last June so I'm hoping they still have this deal. They do lag in service sometimes, but their staff's flavor recommendations have always been really good (like the waitress who told me to get Apple Pie--so delicious). Definitely always make a reservation.

by Ryan C.

If you are going to go to Samah, get one of the small private "rooms" that are draped off with curtains.  It's a great place for a group of people and enjoy the atmosphere.  The food is pretty good, but most people don't go there for the food.  I think I've just about smoked everything possible in my life (in the past), but there is a certain element of spiritual bonding with others in sharing a hookah.  There are quite a few different flavors to choose from.  If you aren't a big smoker, don't smoke too much of it.  There is only so much of a hookah I can smoke off of before I start to get a headache.  You really don't even have to inhale, just enjoy the flavor.  Show some respect and take your shoes off if you get one of the private rooms.

by Dantee A.

If you are going out with some friends and would not mind spending some cash - this is your place.So for $30 you get an appetizer, entree, dessert, drinks and hookah (the drinks and hookah get unlimited refills)Try to be sneaky and split this special - it is enough food for two - three people!

by Stephanie y.

I went with one of my friends and we had one of the rooms. We were both Hookah virgins until this night.We cashed those HV-Cards in and we cashed them good! Both of us being fans of fruit, we ordered the Vimto which was just fabulous. We tried the Alladin's Lamp (banana, melon, cinnamon) and Hawaiin Boobs (coconut melon...boy did I get a kick out of that one when I finally understood why it was coconut melon). Yum yum.Samah, I don't care what others say about you. I'm glad you hosted my first time.

by Alexis L.

We came to Samah on a whim while walking down Clark St late night on a Monday. I had never been to a hookah bar because I'd incorrectly associated it with smoking. My boyfriend, who is a non smoker, assured me that if I could puff a cigar, I could try hookah. I've been known to smoke a fat one out of spite so I agreed to give this place a try even though images of the caterpillar in Alice in Wonderland were making me giggle on the inside. The inside is dimly lit and decorated in dark draped cloth. There are tables in the front, but a bit further back there are two carpeted elevated levels that run to the back of the room. The levels are divided into small (12x12?) sections by curtains that are bunched together at the bottom. For privacy, the strings on the bottom can be removed to create a makeshift room.We cozied up in on the pillows, and listened to our waiter Felix tell us about the different varieties. We ordered his suggested caramel apple which was a mixture of apple, vanilla, and cinnamon along with a green loose leaf tea. The hookah itself was interesting and quite intimidating to this hookah virgin. After watching my boyfriend take a few puffs I decided to try. It was easier than smoking a cigar, and even though I was inhaling, my lungs did not burn. Instead my body felt as if I were baking an apple pie. As much of anti smoker as I consider myself, I really found myself enjoying this. While I don't see myself visiting too often (merely because I don't like the thought of inhaling that much tobacco) I really enjoyed the setup and the idea of this place. They don't serve alcohol, but it was nice to snuggle up on pillows and just talk about life with this novelty smoking machine. I'm told that on weekends you have to reserve the rooms with large groups, but seeing that hookah won't make me miserable at work the next morning, I can see us unwinding here every so often during the week. They also serve Mediterranean cuisine so I look forward to coming for dinner next time. Unlike other reviewers I saw no problem with the service and the manager actually took a few minutes as we were leaving to explain how the room rentals worked. This was a great accidental find! They even have a Yelp! sticker on the door!

by Ashley G.

I've eaten here only a handful of times... but I am reviewing the Hookah! It is my absolute favorite place to go for Hookah. Not only are there great flavors, attentive staff, and a fabulously relaxing atmosphere... there is also a really fantastic deal:With a group of 5 or more people unlimited hookah is 10 a person. Unlimited hookah and drinks is 15. Unlimited hookah, drinks, and a round of appetizers for the group is 20 a person. Included in the drinks are all soft drinks and their variety of great teas (mint tea is delish!) Going here is one of the most relaxing experiences ever... and they don't rush you either. Stay as long as you can.

by Gloria E.

I HATE the time limit.  I hate it so much that this place lost a star for it.  I've gone twice in the last three months.  The first time I ever went was about four years ago and I sat at a table-topper.  It was much more laid back that first time, and we sat there forever, until we felt like leaving, which was nice.  The last two times, not the same.  There's a time limit no matter where you sit.  I had reserved a room-like area both times.  They're not kidding about the time limit, guys.  You can't give an estimate on how long you'll probably be around or anything either.  It's like the equipment at a gym and those sign up sheets, except it's a lounge.Anyways, I can understand a time limit with hookah since I know it's relaxing and people might be inclined to hang around their little area with their hookah, making no other purchases, and this would be bad for business.  They really have to come up with another solution.Anyways, our waitress the first time gave us warning after warning after warning that our time was approaching.  this was so annoying, especially when we were trying to unwind.  It was a constant pressure to count down the time so we don't cut it too close.  Then we asked if we could move over to a table topper when our time was up.  sure, but the tab starts over and you'll have to wait.  You have to tip the waitress for one check and then tip again for another.  We had one friend arriving as another was leaving when we got the table topper, and the waitress came to let us know that if we have others joining, we'll need to get a second hookah since no more than three people are allowed per hookah.  Clearly, the others were leaving and we were in the process of saying goodbye before the hookah even got to the table.  I explained that it would still be three to one hookah, because one friend wasn't sticking around for the second hookah.  She reiterated the rules to me about the person/hookah matter.  I reiterated to her that we were going to be only three by the time she came back.  Geeze, they were all over us about the rules to the point where it ruined the experience. The last time I came, Our server was much more relaxed and he didn't even care that we were still there until we'd been in our room for 1:50.  Then he gave us a ten minute heads-up that the next party would be arriving in ten minutes.  The problem this time was at the beginning.  We walk in, tell them we have a reservation, and the hostess hands menus to another girl and says "follow her."  So we do, and before getting to our curtain area, she disappeared.  She seemed to have seen someone she knew, stopped in the middle of taking us to our table yelled "Oh my God! Hey!..." to someone in another curtain room, and ran in there never to return.  I thought maybe I had misunderstood the hostess' instructions or something.  Someone else eventually came to show us to our spot, and then we waited like 15 minutes before even being greeted by anyone else.  Why?  Nobody knew we were in there.  I had to go hunt down a server.  Although once I found one, he was pretty good and attentive.

by Kelly G.

I love Samah. The atmosphere is great - plush couches, lots of pillows, and draperies hung about to give you and your smoking party extra privacy. The music is great and not too loud.I think the best way to enjoy this place is make a reservation and go with a large group for a week night. They aren't as crazy then, so you are less likely to be booted after 2 hours (which they understandably have to do with as packed as they get on weekends). The party package is actually pretty good - $10 per person, unlimited drinks for each person. And each person gets their own hookah flavor - I had a party of 12 and this was the perfect amount for the 3+ hours they were there.The flavors are great - definitely go with their mixes, and ask your host/hostess what they prefer. Everyone from my party raved about the place, and stated they would love to come back.As far as paying with credit cards goes - I have never had a problem. In fact, this was one of the easiest experiences I've had splitting a bill with a large party. They were fast and efficient with the payment process. And didn't complain about the medley of 12 different combinations of cash and cards.The only improvement Samah could make? If they became BYOB. But overall, Samah is one of my favorite hookah lounges in the city.

by Thamara D.

5 stars for the room, very beautiful. Unfortunately nothing else impressed me. I called to find out about the parking situation and the hostess couldn't help with because she didn't drive. It was freezing cold in there, The floor pillows and the carpet in the private rooms were full of stains.They closed the place 30 minutes early and did not mention that there is 90 minute limit for the booths when I made the reservation. They don't allow any alcohol.I had a perfect romantic night planned here and was very dissapointed.I recommend Sigara instead of this venue.

by Don M.

This place is awesome!  I came here with my buddies Thursday  and there was this belly dancer, Sarah.  She was super sexy and fun!  I love the atmosphere here.  Our server was very helpful and knowledgable about hookah.  Get reservations and know that there is a time limit.

by Sarah M.

Hello, new favorite place in Chicago.We went here last night on a recommendation of a friend via yelp. There were three people in our party and we were seated immediately in one of the private rooms. Think table low to the ground and plush pillows to sit on. The decor is awesome - dark and relaxing with curtains that you can close so you really feel that you're in your own private area.Our server was extremely knowledgable about the hookah selection - we asked questions about flavors and she suggested what it was good to mix with. She also was good about making sure we were always being taken care of and checked up when we needed a refill. The hookah was wonderful, our drinks were great, the hummus was fabulous, and the time we spent here was well worth it. This will definitely be my go-to for hookah within Chicago

by Veronica S.

This is a great place to cozy up with a date or a group of friends .... BUT the only way to cozy up is to make a reservation. It can't be stressed enough.... make a reservation or you end up in the front room not enjoying the full experience of Samah.Great selection of flavors and the staff is great with first time visitors. They book pretty quickly for the weekend so plan ahead.

by Kali B.

Well well well! A venue that actually listens (read: reads) to its reviews! Samah has totally replaced the carpets (and the lounging cushions too, it seems) and I'm in love with the gorgeous ambiance once again! The mouthpieces are still too big and the charging for water is still unfair, but on a recent weekend visit, it was a much more adult crowd, and a far less high-schoolesque hangout.  My original word of caution remains though- MAKE A RESERVATION! (And since they only answer their phones after 5pm, do it early!)Otherwise though: very nice Samah, very nice! Oh dear...Samah was one of my first Chi-town loves. And like my first man love, this one…

by Jennifer S.

This summer, I visited Samah for the dessert portion of the most spontaneously romantic date... ever. We were seated in a cozy, private, curtained room- even without reservations. (However, it seems like we must have caught them on an off night, and I'd make reservations in the future.)The service was attentive but respectful of our space. We shared mouthwatering cake and a delicious combination of tobacco flavors, which I remember being a suggested by our server.I may be biased, but the whole experience was hot, and don't mean from the smoke!

by Julie R.

I love Samah!We have been going on dates as well as taking visitors here for almost three years now. The atmosphere alone is fabulous. It's a great place for a sexy meal/ date. And it's a really fun place for a group of people that don't mind sexy music, lighting and sharing space on the floor with pillows or low tables in the larger rooms.It's a hookah bar, so you must not mind flavored tobacco. It's obviously everywhere.Each "table" is sectioned off by drapes of fabric and it's a nice little touch of privacy. Plus I hate having to deal with annoying people when I'm out :)Food is ALWAYS a hit as well. Even the hummus (simple as one can get) has a nice little kick to it. Excellent flavors in each single dish I have ever had. And we've tried a lot!Service is alight. Always make a reservation. Parking is terrible (obviously) right there on Clark. So plan accordingly. *Note if you go too late on a weekend the bar next door usually starts blaring obnoxious music ... which seeps through into Samah. Just a heads up.

by Steve B.

OK so this place is really nice... But that comes at a price.  The way it is set up is so that each group has their own little area, either that is on the ground on pillows around a table or couches, and each area has curtains that can make it more private.  That being said it is not a place that you can go in a small group it seems, since there are few areas and they are all fairly large.  Each person gets one hookah change, and a drink.  The total cost of this place is about 13 if memory serves from the few times I have been here.One thing that I do not like is that you must have a reservation to come here, and you only have X amount of time until they kick you out for the next group - which is incredibly lame.  So it sucks that you can not just lounge and relax all night, but this place still is really nice - it is the nicest hookah bar that I have been to, but to my experience the hookah bars in Chicago are a lot nicer than those in Columbus.

by Jenna R.

Ahh the fresh fragrance of Hookah... I love it!  I've been here a handfull of times and I've always enjoyed my experience.  I was much more in to Hookah before I turned 21, but now and then I still enjoy a trip over to Samah.  I have only been to Samah and Sigara a bunch of times, but Samah is definitely better.  The place is pretty small, so call ahead for reservations, especially if you're coming with a group.  I was taken aback at the actual length of this place - from the outside it just kind of looks like a brightly lit space with some tall tables and a counter for sitting.  My first impression definitely wasn't the best.  However, upon entering, you realize the space is so much longer than it seems from the outside and the back portion is beautifully decorated with low lights, curtains, pillows and private rooms.  I think that's what I like so much about this place - all of the smoking areas have privacy curtains so it feels like you're in your own little Hookah space.  A lot of places just have a common space with tons of pillows where you can sit and gather, but this was much more intimate and cool.I've never actually ordered from their "regular" menu because we always get package deals when we come here.  I highly, highly recommend the packages (referred to as "private parties" on their website).  The $10 package is our normal choice and that includes one drink and two styles of Hookah (unlimited refills).  I have always been really pleased with the package and I love that it comes with a drink (hint - get something like tea or coffee that comes with free refills and you'll be set all evening!).  My only issue is with the service.  I like that generally the groups are left alone to hang out and talk, but the service is super, super slow.  When we actually needed refreshers on the Hookah, our server was no where to be found.  When we needed drink refills - nothing.  Some servers have been better than others, but I'd say that the service is generally crappy at this place.  I think they need to get a handle on how long it takes groups of 6, 10, 15, etc. to actually finish a Hookah so they can come in and refresh on a regular basis.  Or at least  be around so we can find you!

by Lauren K.

Now I'm really ticked. The manager called me in response to the letter. They are technically not a restaurant, so that is why they can't serve things on actual plates or offer silverware. Ok. Now I know. But I got attitude because I'm your average person who knows nothing about the technicalities of the restaurant business and didn't understand this concept. I kept trying to ask her to see it from my perspective but I kept getting nothing but attitude. She literally was arguing with me. Don't expect any good customer service from this place. This place ticked me off so bad, I emailed management a letter through their website, and snail…

by Monika G.

eh...I'm boycotting this place. Everytime I go the hookah burns through, and i end up feeling sick to my stomach. I think it's the kind of tobacco they use, because my friends say the same thing. you get kicked out after an hour and a half even if yu want a refill. don't go here. there are better places that actually know how to pack a hookah. oh ew! and tere hummus looks like it had mold growing on it and its watery. gross.

by Sumner T.

I feel like this place is just OK.  Like Lauren, I was kind of pissed about having to pay $3 for some water.  Our server was excellent, extremely knowledgeable and was able to reccommend some very good hookah combinations.  The hookah was good and our waiter was very attentive.  For four people and $60 we were able to get two hookah's, one drink apiece, and an order of hummus (which was pretty good).  And yes, like Lauren, it was frustrating that the hummus came in a plastic to-go box.  All in all, it's ok.  But they need to do some work before it ends up being a destination.

by Rahul S.

Back in the day in college, I used to go here with college peeps.  The music was great.  I don't know how to describe it...it was indian/arab techno.  It was different from the other places I've been.  The cheese sticks were pretty good.  The hookah was great as well.  There were many flavors, and the one I liked was apple cider or something like that.....it's been a while.  Crowd was semi-diverse.  I'd go here again.

by An P.

The secret of Samah is to roll deep and to sure as hell make reservations.After departing from Yelp Office Hours at Caoba in the early afternoon, it was due time for a reunion with Andre W., Rafael C., and Diana R.. Andre made reservations for 11:30pm, I made reservations for midnight and beat them there with the couple I had dinner with from the Spirit of Chicago Cruise. After ordering hookahs and tea, the waitress informed me someone named Andre W., wanted to join me. "Hell no!!!" I yelled, "Who the hell would want to hang out with that fool!"  No, not really. I said come on through and our party of four instantly became a party of seven. Little did I know that six was the magic number! With six people, they open up their party packages featuring all you can smoke shisha, all you can drink tea and a bad ass time guaranteed. People started taking off their shoes and we were all sitting in a nice booth with curtains that we kept open, lest scandal be suggested. The Arabic music mixed with electronic ambiance took me to some other place while the shisha was mad delicious to snuff out the alcohol. Then came a belly dancer doing some mad dancing and when she came back the second round the boys tried to put money in her clothes but I said, "She is a belly dancer, not a stripper!" One unnamed party then proceeded to do some madhouse dancing with the belly dancer!  As the night went on, our party got sleepier and sleepier with three of our seven conveniently taking naps. The waitstaff didn't kick us out and let us keep going!A+ Are you serious?  So we did not have reservations, I did not mind sitting in the front open area.…

by Martin H.

The last time I had come here which was 4 years ago, it was great! I just went for my own bday and I wasn't really impressed. They hookah variety and quality was pretty good, lots of different choices. The group price was roughly $10 per person, which gives you unlimited hookah (for 2 hours) and a drink per person. The service wasn't too bad. The setting, not so much. The music was great but thats about it. I was really disappointed to find out that they didn't really have their private rooms anymore. They have separate rooms but the curtains are all up or folded in half, so no real privacy. They used to have large curtained off room with complete privacy from other rooms. Now you can see the other rooms and it almost seems like they added more rooms, so they're smaller than usual. I guess overall, its a nice hookah lounge, but I just wish they had their private curtained off rooms!

by s k.

This hookah lounge is a very trendy place. The atmosphere is dimly lit with excellent house/arabian music and private floor-seating rooms. With plenty of space and pillows, it's a great place to kick back and relax with friends. The prices are also pretty reasonable, there was a special for unlimited hookah with a desert and drinks... something like that. I remember taking advantage of it and liking it. Service was pretty decent too, I never had any problems with that. You will need a reservation if you plan to go at popular times like Friday night and weekends. So now you're wondering... why the 1 star?? The Hookah blows. Yup. Anyone who has reviewed the hookah as excellent CLEARLY has not tried enough hookah or is some typical uncultured American trying to buy into the hookah scene and feel hip/cool. Honestly, the hookah here is coarse and flavorless.... which is the main focus of this establishment. The music, setting, service, this is all secondary to why you're at Samahs. I've been to other locations in the Chicago land area and experienced smoother hookah with strong(er) flavors... don't waste your time here unless you want to simply go thru the motions of smoking without actually enjoying it.

by Andre W.

I now love Samah!!!!!!As An P stated in his review, it is best to roll deep and make a later reservation. Rolled in at 11:30PM this past Friday with 14 peeps and they were really great at accommodating our party. My boy Sam, made sure we were really taken care of. It was $10 per person and a free drink per person (they don't serve alcohol). We had hookah blowing all over the place as we chose many different flavors. I recommended everyone to try the Miami Vice flavor, which is not on the menu and it was a big hit with everyone! Usually they give you a two hour window, but since they close at 3AM and we were such a great group, they let us stay until closing timeGood times!!! Okay.....It might seem like I am coming here too often now, but I am really starting to like this…

by Rafael C.

I'm giving this place four stars but I feel I have to give you all the caveat that I was tagging along in the company of two seasoned Samah patrons. They just told me "hey we are at Samah, why don't you join us"! So they already knew to make it a late night and have a big party so I had the easiest time on enjoying my Samah experience.Two trips to this place and each time was a bit different. The first time it was a nice laid back area in the middle of the place with private curtains. Our server seemed to know what he was talking about and gave good recommendations. I even liked the belly dancer that came that night ... she got me to dance salsa with her which I won't ever say no to! The next trip was a bit of a bigger group so we had a couch lounge area that worked out well. I was able to see how it is from a medium size party to a bigger one. I must say that I wouldn't find this place all that fun with any less. It seems to be laid out better for groups and definitely make reservations for an easier go of it.

by nikki s.

Ahhhh....I want so'mo Samah! This is what after work should be--on a  daily basis! I, along with another friend of mine are  hookah newbies and were accompanied by our hookah-head friend/co-worker to Samah. Surprisingly for a Thursday night, it wasn't crowded.Picture this: Kick off your shoes and relax into an oversized satiny pillow or two. A Moroccan style decor surrounds you with jewel-toned draperies as you puff-puff-pass the hookah tube. Talk about cozy smokin....The middle eastern/loungey tunes set the vibe perfectly, urging you to move. Typically, I don't like feeling buzzed and have never enjoyed smoking, however, this was just enough buzz to give me a nice mellow feel. I know for next time, though, not to hit it too hard or I'll end up with a headache again.Good conversation, good nibbles. We got an order of the spinach pie (which tasted way better than it sounds) and were swoonin' over this bottled iced tea. At first, I was giving the take-out container that the appetizer arrived in the side eye, but I figured what the heck; not a major big deal.Our waitress was cool, attentive and friendly. And I must mention that she didn't boot us out after our reserved time was up. Nice. It was all chill. Wouldn't mind hittin' some late night hookah and checking out the belly dancer. Make sure you reserve a spot early, lest you get the table seats sans the private curtained areas w/pillows.

by Samantha S.

I've been here twice and both times with a party of 10 people. I was a little apprehensive about the service we might be receiving because of such a large group. We made reservations, and when we arrived, we were seated right away with no problems. Service was impeccable both times. Wow! The waitresses here are so nice, helpful, friendly, and personable. Couldn't have had a better experience. Both times, the group collectively agreed that Samah was the one and only place they will ever go to smoke hookah again. Samah totally embodies the idea of hookah-ing and channels the vibe throughout the atmosphere and within the waitresses.

by Samantha S.nikki s.Rafael C.

I've been here twice and both times with a party of 10 people. I was a little apprehensive about the service we might be receiving because of such a large group. We made reservations, and when we arrived, we were seated right away with no problems. Service was impeccable both times. Wow! The waitresses here are so nice, helpful, friendly, and personable. Couldn't have had a better experience. Both times, the group collectively agreed that Samah was the one and only place they will ever go to smoke hookah again. Samah totally embodies the idea of hookah-ing and channels the vibe throughout the atmosphere and within the waitresses.Ahhhh....I want so'mo Samah! This is what after work should be--on a  daily basis! I, along with another friend of mine are  hookah newbies and were accompanied by our hookah-head friend/co-worker to Samah. Surprisingly for a Thursday night, it wasn't crowded.Picture this: Kick off your shoes and relax into an oversized satiny pillow or two. A Moroccan style decor surrounds you with jewel-toned draperies as you puff-puff-pass the hookah tube. Talk about cozy smokin....The middle eastern/loungey tunes set the vibe perfectly, urging you to move. Typically, I don't like feeling buzzed and have never enjoyed smoking, however, this was just enough buzz to give me a nice mellow feel. I know for next time, though, not to hit it too hard or I'll end up with a headache again.Good conversation, good nibbles. We got an order of the spinach pie (which tasted way better than it sounds) and were swoonin' over this bottled iced tea. At first, I was giving the take-out container that the appetizer arrived in the side eye, but I figured what the heck; not a major big deal.Our waitress was cool, attentive and friendly. And I must mention that she didn't boot us out after our reserved time was up. Nice. It was all chill. Wouldn't mind hittin' some late night hookah and checking out the belly dancer. Make sure you reserve a spot early, lest you get the table seats sans the private curtained areas w/pillows.I'm giving this place four stars but I feel I have to give you all the caveat that I was tagging along in the company of two seasoned Samah patrons. They just told me "hey we are at Samah, why don't you join us"! So they already knew to make it a late night and have a big party so I had the easiest time on enjoying my Samah experience.Two trips to this place and each time was a bit different. The first time it was a nice laid back area in the middle of the place with private curtains. Our server seemed to know what he was talking about and gave good recommendations. I even liked the belly dancer that came that night ... she got me to dance salsa with her which I won't ever say no to! The next trip was a bit of a bigger group so we had a couch lounge area that worked out well. I was able to see how it is from a medium size party to a bigger one. I must say that I wouldn't find this place all that fun with any less. It seems to be laid out better for groups and definitely make reservations for an easier go of it.

by Samantha S.nikki s.Rafael C.Andre W.

I've been here twice and both times with a party of 10 people. I was a little apprehensive about the service we might be receiving because of such a large group. We made reservations, and when we arrived, we were seated right away with no problems. Service was impeccable both times. Wow! The waitresses here are so nice, helpful, friendly, and personable. Couldn't have had a better experience. Both times, the group collectively agreed that Samah was the one and only place they will ever go to smoke hookah again. Samah totally embodies the idea of hookah-ing and channels the vibe throughout the atmosphere and within the waitresses.Ahhhh....I want so'mo Samah! This is what after work should be--on a  daily basis! I, along with another friend of mine are  hookah newbies and were accompanied by our hookah-head friend/co-worker to Samah. Surprisingly for a Thursday night, it wasn't crowded.Picture this: Kick off your shoes and relax into an oversized satiny pillow or two. A Moroccan style decor surrounds you with jewel-toned draperies as you puff-puff-pass the hookah tube. Talk about cozy smokin....The middle eastern/loungey tunes set the vibe perfectly, urging you to move. Typically, I don't like feeling buzzed and have never enjoyed smoking, however, this was just enough buzz to give me a nice mellow feel. I know for next time, though, not to hit it too hard or I'll end up with a headache again.Good conversation, good nibbles. We got an order of the spinach pie (which tasted way better than it sounds) and were swoonin' over this bottled iced tea. At first, I was giving the take-out container that the appetizer arrived in the side eye, but I figured what the heck; not a major big deal.Our waitress was cool, attentive and friendly. And I must mention that she didn't boot us out after our reserved time was up. Nice. It was all chill. Wouldn't mind hittin' some late night hookah and checking out the belly dancer. Make sure you reserve a spot early, lest you get the table seats sans the private curtained areas w/pillows.I'm giving this place four stars but I feel I have to give you all the caveat that I was tagging along in the company of two seasoned Samah patrons. They just told me "hey we are at Samah, why don't you join us"! So they already knew to make it a late night and have a big party so I had the easiest time on enjoying my Samah experience.Two trips to this place and each time was a bit different. The first time it was a nice laid back area in the middle of the place with private curtains. Our server seemed to know what he was talking about and gave good recommendations. I even liked the belly dancer that came that night ... she got me to dance salsa with her which I won't ever say no to! The next trip was a bit of a bigger group so we had a couch lounge area that worked out well. I was able to see how it is from a medium size party to a bigger one. I must say that I wouldn't find this place all that fun with any less. It seems to be laid out better for groups and definitely make reservations for an easier go of it.I now love Samah!!!!!!As An P stated in his review, it is best to roll deep and make a later reservation. Rolled in at 11:30PM this past Friday with 14 peeps and they were really great at accommodating our party. My boy Sam, made sure we were really taken care of. It was $10 per person and a free drink per person (they don't serve alcohol). We had hookah blowing all over the place as we chose many different flavors. I recommended everyone to try the Miami Vice flavor, which is not on the menu and it was a big hit with everyone! Usually they give you a two hour window, but since they close at 3AM and we were such a great group, they let us stay until closing timeGood times!!! Okay.....It might seem like I am coming here too often now, but I am really starting to like this…