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| - A hookah joint that's an excellent alternative to the bar scene if you're either underage or want something else to do in the Oakland area that isn't alcohol-related. Really cool atmosphere, as this used to be a church but is now decorated ceiling-to-floor in brightly patterned cloths and similarly designed cushions along the walls. There's also a "VIP section" upstairs that has an extra $1 cover charge, which is pretty ridiculous as it's exactly the same as the ground except one flight up.
I'm not a hookah connoisseur but they do have Starbuzz, which according to my brothers who I came here with, is one of the better tobaccos. Ask which quality it is, since they don't list the brands on the menu. They have a wide selection of flavors here; we tried the peach, which was really smooth and flavorful.
The juices were highly recommended. While they are thick and lush, only the strawberry is made in-house. I also had the sahlaab drink, which is a Turkish hot drink quite similar to rice pudding, but a little more liquid-y. Really, *really* delicious.
All in all, it's really cool that Sphinx even exists in Pittsburgh, it seems to be pretty authentic to be honest. The crowd seems to be mostly underage college kids. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday nights some college students (I think??) grill up burgers and hot dogs on the lawn to sell for a few bucks. Good call, as Sphinx doesn't offer much other than finger foods.
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