The Story Behind Carnys
How a love for food, music, and gathering became Encino's most complete night out.
Our Impact in Encino
Since opening our doors, we've been honored to serve thousands of guests and create countless memorable moments.
Guests Served
Live Performances
Premium Hookah Flavors
Dishes Crafted Weekly
Where the Whole Night Happens
Carnys was born from a simple question: why should a great night out require hopping from place to place? We imagined a venue where dinner flows naturally into drinks, where live music sets the mood for conversation, and where the art of hookah brings friends together.
Located in the heart of Encino on Ventura Boulevard, we've created that space—a gathering place where Mediterranean hospitality meets California cool. From our kitchen's bold flavors to our bar's inventive cocktails, from our intimate stage to our luxurious lounge, every element is designed to make your night feel complete.
At Carnys, we believe the best nights are the ones that don't rush. The ones where you linger over one more mezze plate, discover a new cocktail, catch a few more songs, and realize the night has only gotten better.
Did You Know?
We feature live music 7 nights a week—over 450 performances and counting—making us Encino's most active music venue.
What Makes Carnys Different
Four experiences, one destination. Each element of Carnys is crafted with the same dedication to quality and atmosphere. Tap or hover to explore each experience.
The Food
Mediterranean kitchen celebrating bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the tradition of sharing.
The Hookah
Premium tobacco, expertly crafted signature blends, and an atmosphere that invites you to slow down.
The Bar
Inventive signature cocktails to perfectly poured classics, reflecting craft and quality.
The Botanical Garden
Kava, kanna, blue lotus, and adaptogenic elixirs for elevated relaxation without alcohol.
Meet Our Team
Behind every memorable meal, perfectly mixed cocktail, and unforgettable night are the passionate professionals who make Carnys special.
15+ Years
Chef Reza Hashemi
Executive Chef
Persian & Mediterranean Cuisine
With over 15 years of culinary experience across Tehran, Dubai, and Los Angeles, Chef Reza brings authentic Persian flavors to every plate. Trained under master chefs in Iran, he combines traditional techniques with modern presentation.
8+ Years
Sophia Martinez
Head Mixologist
Craft Cocktails & Botanical Elixirs
Sophia has been crafting award-winning cocktails for LA's finest establishments for over 8 years. Her botanical expertise shines in our kava and kanna elixirs, blending wellness with exquisite taste.
12+ Years
Omar Hassan
General Manager
Hospitality Excellence
Omar's passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences is unmatched. With a background in luxury hospitality across the Middle East and California, he ensures every visit to Carnys feels like coming home.
10+ Years
Isabella Chen
Entertainment Director
Live Music Curation
Isabella's deep connections in the LA music scene bring world-class jazz, Mediterranean bands, and acoustic artists to our stage. She personally selects every performer to match Carnys' sophisticated vibe.
From Vision to Reality
Every milestone tells a story of passion, dedication, and our community's incredible support.
Grand Opening
Carnys opened its doors on Ventura Boulevard, introducing Encino to a new concept: Mediterranean dining meets hookah lounge meets live music venue.
First Jazz Night
Our inaugural live jazz performance packed the house. We knew we were onto something special.
1,000th Guest Celebration
We celebrated serving our 1,000th guest with a special tasting menu and complimentary hookah session.
Botanical Bar Launch
Introduced our curated botanical elixir program featuring kava, kanna, blue lotus, damiana, and valerian.
Community Partnerships
Formed partnerships with local charities and Encino Chamber of Commerce, hosting fundraising events.
10,000+ Guests Milestone
Reached a major milestone serving over 10,000 guests, with consistently sold-out weekend shows.
Guest Experiences
Nothing makes us prouder than hearing about the special moments our guests create at Carnys.
“We came here for our first date and it was PERFECT. The live jazz, the ambiance, the food... we're engaged now and Carnys will always be our special place. Thank you for making magic happen!”
Michael & Rachel T.
October 2024
Story 1 of 3
Honored by Our Community
We're humbled by the recognition we've received from our guests and the Encino community.
Yelp Elite Recommended
Yelp • 2024
4.8★ average rating from 387+ reviews
Google Top Rated
Google • 2024
Top-rated hookah lounge in San Fernando Valley
Best Hookah Lounge
San Fernando Valley Weekly • 2024
Readers' Choice Award
Best Live Music Venue
Encino Lifestyle Magazine • 2024
Editor's Pick for intimate performances
Top Date Night Spot
LA Date Night Guide • 2024
Featured in "Best Romantic Restaurants in Encino"
Community Champion
Encino Chamber of Commerce • 2024
Outstanding local business contribution
The Culture Behind Our Cuisine
A Journey Through Mediterranean & Persian Traditions
Mediterranean cuisine is built on a foundation of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and the sacred tradition of gathering around the table. From the aromatic spice markets of Tehran to the coastal tavernas of Greece, every dish tells a story of hospitality and heritage.
Our hookah tradition dates back over 500 years to Safavid Persia, where it was considered an art form of relaxation and conversation. We honor this history by sourcing premium tobacco, hand-crafting signature blends, and creating an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
In Mediterranean culture, a meal is never just about food—it's about connection. It's why we pair our dining with live music, why our portions are meant for sharing, and why our hospitality makes everyone feel like family.
Did You Know?
Our hookah pipes are custom-made in Cairo, Egypt, using traditional brass-working techniques passed down for generations.
Mediterranean Heritage
Traditional Spice Markets of the Mediterranean
Persian Tradition
Family Gathering
Elevated, but Accessible
We believe luxury should feel warm, not cold. Sophistication should invite, not intimidate. At Carnys, we've created an atmosphere that's upscale without being unapproachable—a place where everyone feels welcome to stay a little longer and experience a little more.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just escaping the ordinary, we're here to make your night feel like it was made just for you.
Find Carnys
Hours
Sun-Thu: 10AM - 2AM
Fri-Sat: 10AM - 2AM
On Ventura Boulevard
In the heart of Encino
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