Yesterday, it was sadly revealed that Habibi’s Hookah Lounge in Ybor has closed its doors for good. This was accompanied by photos taken over the weekend that showed it was shut – and this would undeniably be a key time of the week for the joint to be open. Over the years, Habibi’s had grown into one of the publics’ favorite hookah lounges in Tampa, which makes it understandable why locals are saddened and shocked by its very swift closure.

Not only this – but lately the whole venue has had a bit of a change, with other retail spaces such as the tattoo parlor recently closing as well. However, Habibi’s managed to stay around a bit longer. According to one Tampa resident who asked around, the place was going to be turned into an oyster bar. However, this has not yet been confirmed.

In fact, the whole area of Ybor looks set for a lot of change – as it’s also been revealed that Rock Brothers on 8th has also closed. This shows just how difficult it is to run a business in this area of late, and that it’s certainly altering its appearance.

Talking on social media, one resident said: “Now Habibi’s is going Ybor about to become sterilized with all the newcomers from different places. Bars with neon lights that says “live laugh love”, low hanging yellow light coffee shops, and outdoor bars with turf grass. Rip to the original Ybor we all knew.”

Whether you’re for the change or not – it looks like life in this Tampa hotspot will never be the same, and sadly Habibi’s will be sadly missed.