Soho

El Raval, Barcelona –

Hidden away on a narrow street in El Raval, Soho is an authentic Moroccan-run hookah bar offering a distinct change of pace from the frantic Las Ramblas just a stone’s throw away.

The bar’s open front cleverly encourages passersby to stop in, take off their shoes, and pull up one of the leather cushions scattered on the floor to indulge in the ancient ritual of smoking an ornate hookah pipe.

Patrons can order hookah flavors like apple and peach as well as eastern treats like falafel and shawarma to stave off hunger. The bar also serves refreshing green teas and, of course, a selection of beers.

Guests are invited to choose between sitting on the ground floor amid Egyptian tapestries or ascending the narrow cream staircase to the mezzanine to enjoy their hookah under the exposed red beams.

Soho’s laid-back, open atmosphere attracts a young but affluent clientele, including a contingent of students who gather to contentedly laze away the hours.