NARA

When Alice encounters the hookah-smoking caterpillar, he is snippy and reluctant to answer questions. You’re not likely to have that sort of problem at NARA, the hookah lounge on Federal Hill. Fellow customers there tend to be friendly and laid-back, literally if they like, reclining on couches. The lighting is subdued and the decor is in earth tones. Nara probably doesn’t offer what the caterpillar was smoking, but you can puff margherita or mango, sweet melon or mint, among their flavors. You and a friend or two can share a pipe for $19 and up. It’s a shame they don’t offer maryjane, because you can get all sorts of Lebanese munchies, served 5 pm to midnight or 1 am, from hummus and kibbee balls to kebabs. There is a regular bar, if you’d like to puff and sip. | 248 Atwells Avenue, Providence | 401.273 .6272 | providencenara.com