The Smoke Boutique & Kava Bar

The Smoke Boutique & Kava Bar has built a real name for itself in Austin, and it's close to a perfect five-star reputation among the smoke shops in this city, which tells you something when you walk in and see how busy it stays. Locals will tell you it's GK who makes the mornings here special. People describe him as patient, sharp on product knowledge, and just plain kind, the kind of person who makes you want to hang around and talk a while.

The shop itself is well organized and, as more than one person around town has put it, the vibe inside is immaculate. There's a hookah and shisha lounge with a Mediterranean feel that people call a lesser-known option, and it's a legitimate hangout spot, not just a quick stop. Staff will walk you through proper care and cleaning for your water pipes too, which regulars appreciate.

Taylor and Maddie get called out often for going out of their way to help, and people say the prices here are hard to beat, with deals like buy-eight-get-one-free on vapes and a point system tied to your phone number that saves you money over time. Ask anyone who shops here and they'll say the staff, several of whom are from India, bring a warmth and knowledge that keeps people coming back. It's the kind of smoke shop in Austin, Texas where the service is as much the draw as the product wall.