Firefly: Kent, Ohio's Own Hookah Lounge

When I stepped into Firefly on a brisk autumn evening I had high hopes. It's a drive out to Kent, Ohio, when you're an Akron gal like myself, but reviews from friends of mine pushed me to the edge (of town) and into the pleasantly lit hookah lounge. The location of the lounge was very nice, right on Water Street-so even someone like me, relatively unfamiliar with the area, found it with no problem.

I sat down and immediately asked the server what brands of Shisha they carried. A dismayed look told him that "Hookah-Hookah" isn't the answer I wanted to hear. What can I say; I'm a bit of a snob. Regardless, I went into the experience optimistic and open. Upon reviewing the menu, which includes tea and coffee plus carbonated beverages, I was pleased with the variety. There are not only quite a few hookah flavors, but also an assortment of drinks and desserts, which I failed to try but sounded absolutely delicious.

The service was absolutely wonderful. We were greeted promptly and given our drinks in a timely fashion. They were also refilled in good time when we asked for them. Our particular server assisted the most difficult customers he could have encountered (that would be us). We rather unsuccessfully mixed what we thought were fall flavors-for your best interest, do not get a mixture of vanilla and hazelnut alone. It's not good. We tried a couple other flavors, still attempting to find the warm coziness of creamy flavors... but it all ended sadly. We ended up with mango-peach, which I would highly recommend. Our flavor decision had little to do with the establishment itself, except that our server was incredibly helpful and understanding. I really appreciated that, and noted it accordingly.

Firefly does use instant coals, something I've been unable to get away from among the hookah bars I've visited in Ohio. However, we were well taken care of when it came to changing and adding coals to our hookah. As I mentioned previously, they only carry Hookah-Hookah brand Shisha, which I would argue is a shame. However, it is a good, mild Shisha that is pretty ideal for a new smoker. I'm just waiting for all of these hookah bars to realize that Starbuzz is a great brand and really needs to be incorporated into their menu*.

The music selection was excellent-more or less widely known artists, but not so pop that you couldn't enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. The couches were comfortable, and perfect for an intimate conversation. The lounge was not overly crowded, though many people trickled in over the course of the few hours we were there. There was enough space for every group to maintain privacy and enjoy their experience without having to talk over the conversations of other customers. The art hanging on the walls looked local, which I find to be positive for artist and customer alike. I would have liked the lighting to be a bit dimmer, but this place really had a classy feel to it. It was still warm and cozy without being dingy or dark. I guess that takes some talent in décor.

In conclusion, I would recommend Firefly to any red-blooded hookah smoker, unless you are entirely adverse to certain aforementioned brands of Shisha. Otherwise, it is a great little place with a lot of charm and great service. Just stay away from the hazelnut.