Truth Hookah Lounge & Moroccan Restaurant: Everyone Has a Seat at the Table

Truth Hookah Lounge & Moroccan Restaurant

Truth Hookah Lounge & Moroccan Restaurant officially opened its doors on October 4, 2021. Originally planning a grand opening, Shane and Mariam Elsaadawy decided the time was right as they saw their vision come to life during renovations. Mariam, originally from Egypt, held fond memories of visiting her grandmother in Morocco—where the aromas, flavors, and atmosphere left a lasting impression. When the couple considered opening a restaurant, they realized there were no Moroccan dining options in Hammond. Inspired by Mariam’s nostalgia, they created Truth, an authentic space that honors her cultural roots.

As the restaurant took shape, they recognized another meaningful connection—Mariam’s father, an avid hookah smoker. Combining Moroccan cuisine with the communal tradition of hookah, they crafted a niche space where guests could gather, share, and indulge in an immersive cultural experience. Truth became more than a restaurant; it became a reflection of family, heritage, and hospitality.

Shane and Mariam are deeply grateful for the supportive community of chefs and restaurant owners around them, particularly Chanc Kinchen and the Wong family. Shane, transitioning from a corporate structure into running a brick-and-mortar restaurant, describes this network as a “wealth of knowledge” that has been instrumental in their success. With 17 years of restaurant experience, Shane balances his role as a full-time therapist, while Mariam, with her lifelong background in the industry, brings her passion for food and culture to Truth. Their space caters to an older crowd, offering a refined, sensory experience rather than a party scene. Truth is designed to be a place for connection, where guests come together to savor authentic flavors and meaningful conversation.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. The first three years tested the couple’s resilience, marked by the passing of Shane’s mother and unexpected infrastructure issues within the building. However, the past eight months have been a time of growth and appreciation, allowing them to fully embrace the experience of what they’ve built. As business owners, they take pride in celebrating not just their own culture but the diversity of everyone who walks through their doors. Truth is more than a restaurant—it’s a communal space where everyone has a seat at the table.