Arabic Nightlife in Boston

When it comes to Arabic night life in Boston, sad to say, it can be very hard to find.  Although there are numerous Middle Eastern restaurants, hookah lounges, and cafes, and even some that have belly dance performances and background Arabic music, you'll be hard pressed to find a lively venue where you can let loose with great hypnotic oriental dancing and dabke!   

So where do you go for fun and traditional Arabic nights around town?  Its a good question, so we've done some digging for you.  Presenting YallaBoston's select: "Boston's lil Middle Eastern Underground"

Habibi's Lounge
"Boston's Most Authentic Hookah Lounge"

One of the newest hot spots in Boston!  Habibi's Lounge opened in 2008 and has brought a traditional side of Arabia right here in Boston.

You can't match the quality here at Habibi's Lounge!  With its large comfortable, Syrian fabric couches, its perfect for small to large groups but do call in advance as seating fills up fast.  If you're not a smoker, don't worry, the lounge is very well ventilated.

Besides their extensive sheesha menu (their double-apple is a must try), you'll enjoy your favorite Arabic songs playing all night in the background.  Music is played at fun yet respectable volume, so you can carry conversation without yelling.  Although Habibi's isn't a dance club atmosphere, they do have their nights when patrons are singing, clapping, casual dancing and on occasion a dabke (a traditional Arabic line dance) breaks up the night!  Definitely make Habibi's Lounge one of your evening destinations!

Click here to see their listing on YallaBoston.com!

The Red Fez

Established in 1940, The Red Fez is an icon of the South End of Boston.  It isn't just a Middle Eastern Restaurant, its one of the only places in town that offers live Arabic music on weekend nights, as well as belly dance performances throughout the evening.

Style: Restaurant and Bar
Dance Floor: Medium
Belly Dances: Yes
Prices: $$ - $$$
Parking: Private Lot
Cover Charge: No
Alcohol: Yes

Hours:
Mon-Sun (11am - 2am)

Live entertainment is typically every Saturday night from 9:30pm until 1:30am.  Friday nights offer  much softer instrumental beats.  The dance floor is spacious, and the ambiance is just right.  This is a great place to unwind, dance it up and dabke the night away! 

Click here to see their listing on YallaBoston.com!

Basha Cafe

Another place to check out is the Basha Cafe in Cambridge.  The cafe hasn't been around as long as The Red Fez however, they have proven themselves by bringing in talented Arabic bands.  

The bands don't start until after 9:00 and reservations are recommended and check out their event calendar on their website.

Style: Restaurant and Bar
Dance Floor: Small
Prices: $$ - $$$
Parking: Private Lot
Cover Charge: No
Alcohol: Yes

Hours:
Tue - Sat (11am - 1am)
Sun (11am - 10pm)

Click here to see their listing on YallaBoston.com!

Byblos Restaurant

Well known in the region for their quality, Byblos Restaurant not only dishes up one of the best Maza's around but they also offer evening Entertainment such as live Arabic bands and belly dance performances. 

Byblos is a very spacious restaurant, with plenty of seating and is perfect for large groups.  Their dance floor is also very large (plenty of room for a dabke).  Although situated in Norwood, MA (about 20-30 minutes from Boston), its definitely a recommended spot for a memorable evening.

Style: Restaurant
Dance Floor: Large
Prices: $$$
Parking: Private Lot
Cover Charge: No
Alcohol: Yes

Hours:
Tue - Thu (11:30am - 10pm)
Fri - Sat (11:30am - 11pm
Sun (12:30pm - 8pm)

Click here to see their listing on YallaBoston.com!

Random Venues:

On occasion, local night clubs in town pay Arabic mixes.  Check with each club's event pages to find out more.  Below are a few links to nightclubs in Boston:

Club Zone

Nightclub Boston

Boston Nightclub News 

On occasion, local university clubs, as well as organizations host hafli's (Arabic style parties) throughout the year.  These hafli's usually include a traditional Maza dinner  Groups such as the "Lebanese Club at MIT", the "BU Lebanese Club", "NAAP", and others host large parties, some of which bring in over 400 people! 

The best way to stay informed is to join our mailing list and by checking the YallaBoston! Events Calendar.