About Cloud
Cloud (sometimes referred to as Le Cloud Lounge) is a modern hookah lounge and nightclub on Ottawa’s Bank Street corridor, just south of Lansdowne Park (lecloudottawa.com ). This intimate bar-and-lounge hybrid specializes in shisha (hookah) entertainment, making it a top destination for Ottawa’s Middle Eastern and nightlife crowd. Housed in a redeveloped building that once housed local eateries, Cloud opened in the early 2020s with an elegantly modern interior and plush seating areas designed for socializing over hookah. The venue emphasizes a warm, relaxed atmosphere – “a vibrant ambiance” in an “elegantly modern setting” (lecloudottawa.com ) – blending cultural tradition (shisha flavors and décor) with contemporary nightclub style. Signature features include a diverse hookah menu (offering flavors “from traditional to exotic” (lecloudottawa.com )) and a stocked bar with cocktails, wine and beer. Cafés and restaurants line Bank Street nearby, but Cloud is unique as a dedicated late-night lounge. Over time, it has become notable as a cultural hotspot where Ottawa’s global communities mingle: for example, the space regularly hosts themed Arabic music nights and DJ parties that celebrate Lebanese, Egyptian and Arabic pop music, giving the city a slice of Middle Eastern nightlife. In short, Cloud stands out on the local scene as Ottawa’s premier shisha lounge and club, combining hookah-friendly lounging with live DJs and events against a stylish urban backdrop.
Events and Programming
Cloud operates mostly as an evening and weekend venue, hosting lively late-night events rather than daytime activities. Its calendar is a mix of DJ-driven party nights, cultural theme parties and private bookings. Regular programming often includes Arabic pop/EDM dance nights (sometimes billed as “Beirut in Ottawa” parties) featuring guest DJs, with tunes ranging from classic Middle Eastern hits to international club music. For instance, recent events have included Toronto-based DJ Edz spinning internationally popular and Arabic hits at Cloud (www.ticketfairy.com ). On such nights, the crowd is a mix of Ottawa’s Arabic-speaking community and club-goers drawn by the hookah lounge vibe. The dress code on event nights tends toward upbeat club casual, and the party atmosphere stays energetic until closing (often after midnight). In addition to public parties, Cloud hosts private events (such as birthdays or corporate gatherings) by reservation.
www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
For ticketed Cloud events, the best strategy is to watch its social media pages or event listings for announcements. Upcoming parties at Cloud are often promoted via Facebook/Instagram events or on platforms like TicketFairy or Eventbrite. Early tickets (if any) are usually sold online, and Cloud’s official site or promoters may share a link. For very popular shows, tickets might sell out in advance; in those cases it’s wise to buy early or get on a guest list. That said, many nights are open-admission, so if you miss the promo window you can often still pay at the door – provided you arrive early enough before a crowd builds up.
Cloud does not have a traditional walk-up box office or phone line; all event tickets and table reservations are handled online or by email. Some events will note “tickets selling fast” when announced (www.ticketfairy.com ). Generally, general admission tickets for a DJ night might sell for around $10–$15 CAD in advance, and a bit more at the door. VIP bottle service or table reservations (for groups) may be available for high-profile nights – in those cases, contacting Cloud directly through email or the reservation form on their website is advised. In summary, check for event pages (or Cloud’s Instagram) for links to buy tickets, or plan to arrive early to get in from the door. There is no external phone number or official ticket agency; Cloud relies on its online presence and partner promoters for bookings.段
Seating and Layout
Cloud’s interior is laid out like a casual lounge-meets-club rather than a fixed-seating theater. The floor plan is fairly open, with seating arranged around the perimeter and an open area near the center. Plush couches and low tables line the sides, each equipped for hookah service. In these lounge sections, groups can sit comfortably on sofas or cushioned benches. Closer to the DJ booth there is space for standing or dancing; some smaller stools or high tables may also be available. Because the main floor is mostly open, all guests have flexible sightlines to the stage/DJ area – no reserved “bad” seats. The venue rarely assigns fixed table seating except for special bottle-service reservations.
With its nightclub setup, the “best seats” depend on your preference. If you want easy access to bar and sound, standing near the DJ console or on the dance area is best; you'll enjoy fuller sound. If you prefer a quieter hookah experience, choose one of the cushioned banquettes along the walls – those offer a close-up lounging vibe and easy conversation, though they may be slightly farther from the loudest music. The acoustic balance is tuned for party music; note that the sound system is geared toward DJs, so the loudest audio comes from speakers near the stage. If volume bothers you, sitting toward the front corner lounges can keep noise more moderate. All levels (if any upper mezzanines exist) have similar setups – Cloud feels more like an elongated basement lounge than a tall multi-floor club. Overall, crowd noise and flashing lights come with the territory. There aren’t really any obstructed-view spots to avoid, but the area right in front of the DJ can get very packed. For a relaxed hookah experience, pick a side-table; for the dancefloor, stake out a front-center spot. Either way, every corner of Cloud can feel lively on a peak night.
Getting There and Parking
Cloud’s address is 1652 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1V 7Y6 , on the east side of Bank Street just south of Holmwood Avenue – only a few blocks south of Lansdowne Park and just north of Carling Avenue. If driving, the most convenient route is often via Carling Avenue (taking Bronson north) or Bank Street. Street parking is available along Bank Street and nearby side streets, although it is usually metered (pay at the curb) or timed (often 2-hour limits in this commercial area). On weekends and evenings, finding free street parking can be challenging, so plan extra time.
For event nights or busy weekends, consider paid parking lots in Lansdowne Park (behind the main stadium/field, with entrances off Holmwood or Brewers Row). Those lots charge a fee (typically a few dollars an hour, or a flat event rate on game nights) and are a short walk. You can also park in nearby commercial lots or municipal lots off Bank Street, though anywhere not explicitly a Cloud lot means paying attention to signs. If you arrive early in the evening, you may snag free or low-cost parking on some side streets or farther down Bank Street where limits are longer (just watch for posted times).
Public transit to Cloud is fairly straightforward. OC Transpo bus routes run along Bank Street and nearby Bronson. For example, Bus 7 (Bank Street north-south) stops within a one- to two-minute walk of Cloud at Bank & Lisgar. Bus 85 (Lansdowne route) also stops at Lansdowne Park (Bronson & Holmwood) about 500m from Cloud. After the O-Train Confederation Line extension opened, the new Lansdowne Station on the O-Train (near Holmwood & Parkwood) is only about a 5-minute walk from Cloud. If using the existing Confederation Line, Carling Station is roughly a 10-minute walk southwest (crossing Carling to Bank). Rideshare and taxis are popular choices after late-night events — drop-offs and pickups on Bank Street (Holmwood) or on the short side street behind Cloud are common. The venue enables easy drop-off by private car or cab near the entrance, and also provides bike racks out front if you roll in on two wheels. In short, Cloud is well-connected and easy to reach by car or public transit, being right in the heart of Bank Street’s nightlife district.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Cloud, expect a relaxed but energetic lounge atmosphere. Staff will greet you at the door to check IDs (Cloud is 19+ only as per Ontario liquor laws (www.ticketfairy.com )) and potentially do a quick bag check on busy nights. Beyond the entrance you’ll find a dimly lit space with modern décor – often accent lighting and subtle Middle Eastern-inspired touches. The main area is open-concept, so there is no strict foyer or lobby. Coat check is usually available in colder months (winter coat check for a modest fee is common in Ottawa bars), but you can also leave jackets at your lounge table or behind the bar. Men’s and women’s (unisex) washrooms are located toward the back or sides; signage is posted, and each is generally accessible via a short hallway off the main room.
Near the front of the venue is the bar, which serves drinks throughout the night. Cloud offers a full drink menu: you can order anything from coffee, tea or soft drinks to local beers, imported options, and creative cocktails. Many guests come directly from work or other outings, so the bar staff are accustomed to both cocktail and hookah orders. A unique feature is the extensive shisha menu: you will see trays of flavored tobacco and coals on each hookah table. Servers (hurrahs) bring out hookah pipes and set them up at tables when ordered. When hooking up, ask about the latest or specialty flavors; the menu typically includes classics (like double apple, mint or grape) and more exotic blends (perhaps strawberry-kiwi, blueberry-mint, etc.). The website highlights that Cloud carries “a diverse selection of flavors, from traditional to exotic” (lecloudottawa.com ), so explore before you pick. The hookah experience is a key attraction: sharing a bowl with friends is part of the fun here.
The service style inside is friendly and casual. Servers and staff circulate on the floor, taking drink and hookah orders and helping arrange tables for groups. You can pay by credit card or cash. During events, a DJ or performers at the back will crank up the music, and the space transitions into a dance energy. If it’s a slow night, Cloud operates more like a lounge where people chat over shisha and drinks. Be prepared for smoke: even though Cloud has ventilation, the air will carry shisha smoke and scent of flavored tobacco (a normal part of the hookah lounge vibe). The venue typically has free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected or share your night on social media (the password is usually available from the bartenders). Phone reception is generally good inside.
Other amenities: A small merchandise rack by the bar may sell branded t-shirts or accessories, especially around holidays or event promos (ask if interested). The floors are level and there is at least one wheelchair-accessible entrance (with staff on hand to assist if needed), although the dancefloor area is open so mobility should not be an issue. Cloud tends to keep a balanced crowd; by design there’s no strict dress code, but most patrons go for a stylish or neat-casual look (jeans and nice top, dress shirts, etc.). In short, expect Cloud’s interior to be intimate and inviting - a cozy blend of club energy in a lounge setting, where you can mingle, dance or relax with a drink and shisha.
Nearby Amenities
Cloud’s Bank Street location puts it right in the middle of a lively neighborhood with plenty of late-night options. Just steps away is a Bridgehead coffeehouse (1 minute on foot (yatmo.com )) where you can grab a coffee or snack before your night out. Also very close is the popular “Dumpling? Dumpling!” dumpling spot (about a 1-minute walk (yatmo.com )), where you can grab quick drinks and Asian bites. For a wider choice of dining and bars, the Lansdowne Park area is literally next door. Around Lansdowne (0.2 km north) you’ll find casual chain restaurants like Milestones, Joe’s Kitchen, and bar patios that stay open late, as well as more upscale places like McKibbins Irish Pub or the longstanding Brothers Beer Bistro to the southeast. The rental and market area has additional cafés and pizza shops as well.
If you need accommodations, several hotels are nearby. The Hampton Inn on Bank Street is about 1 block north, and hotels around Dow’s Lake or along Carling Avenue (like the Novotel on Dow’s) are a short drive or transit ride away. For late-night transportation back, Bank Street is a major thoroughfare with taxis often passing at peak hours. There are also rideshare pickup spots near Bank & Holmwood, which is right in front of Cloud. Overall, the immediate area has plenty of bars, restaurants, takeouts and convenience outlets – so pre-show gatherings or late-night snacks are easy to find within a 5–10 minute stroll. Public parking around Lansdowne often remains available late at night for offsite plans, and evening transit is robust on Bank Street, making Cloud well-served by its urban surroundings (yatmo.com ).
What Makes This Venue Special
Cloud stands out for its fusion of cultures and functions. It isn’t just another bar; it brings a distinctly Middle-Eastern lounge tradition into Ottawa’s nightlife, creating a niche that was rare in the city. Architecturally, Cloud preserves the warm feel of the original Bank Street building (once a Lebanese bakery and gathering spot) but has updated it with modern club lighting and décor. One could say it blends a bit of historic charm (the idea of communal hookah) with cutting-edge sound and production. Cultural significance comes from Cloud’s role as a social hub: it gives Ottawa’s Arab and Eastern communities a friendly home base for celebrations, from traditional holiday parties to contemporary DJ nights. Examples include special events timed to cultural festivals (like summer Arabic music parties or New Year’s hookah events). Even beyond that community, Cloud has developed a reputation among local party-goers for its unique vibe – a blend of lounge comfort and dancefloor excitement that you won’t get at a typical club.
Over its short history, Cloud has already hosted several touted nights. One memorable series is the “Beirut in Ottawa” event line, bringing international DJs (like DJ Edz) who play multilingual music sets. Unlike many larger venues, Cloud’s performances feel personal and immersive. The setting – low lounge lights, chattering patrons with hookahs at hand – creates memorable moments for dancers and social groups alike. In some ways it has become a bit of a local legend to visit on milestone celebrations like birthdays or after concerts. It’s also known as an inclusive party spot where folks of different ages and backgrounds can enjoy a night out; patrons often note they appreciate the respectful, friendly atmosphere as much as the music and hookah. For artists and DJ’s, Cloud offers an appreciative audience and a slick but intimate room to perform in. In the tapestry of Ottawa venues, Cloud’s combination of shisha lounge flair and nightclub programming gives it a character all its own – a place both artists and audiences love to experience because it’s lively yet relaxed, trendy yet rooted in cultural tradition.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Cloud is generally accessible. The entrance is at street level (no steep stairs) and there is space for wheelchairs inside. If you have mobility needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead; the staff can hold the door or guide you to accessible seating. (Most guests have no trouble with the flat layout.)
What to Bring: Always bring government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport), as staff will check ID for age verification (it’s strictly 19+ (www.ticketfairy.com )). Carrying some cash is wise for tips or small purchases, though credit/debit cards are accepted at the bar. As for dress, Cloud’s vibe is nightclub-casual: trendy jeans or dresses are common. You don’t need to over-dress, but neat attire is recommended (no athletic jerseys or flip-flops if you want a smoother entry).
Entry Tips: If the club is busy, arrive early to avoid lineups or cover charges. Free admission some nights can turn into a cover fee once it fills up. For popular events, downloading tickets ahead or signing up on the guest list (if available) is smart. It’s perfectly normal to arrive in small groups – Cloud staff will seat you at any available lounge table. If you want guaranteed seating or a larger booth, consider reserving a table in advance via the website or email (especially for groups of 5+ or birthday celebrations) (lecloudottawa.com ).
Inside Etiquette: Outside food and drink are not allowed (all beverages must be purchased onsite). Personal photos are fine (mobile phones encouraged for selfies), but professional photography is restricted – it’s best to check with management if you have a camera. Always treat the hookahs with care: the charcoal and pipe can get hot, so only staff should light or refill them. Since the lounge can be smoky, patrons often advise wearing clothes that you don’t mind picking up a light scent (or a jacket that can be left at the door).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t wander off and lose your group – Cloud is dark and busy, so it’s easy to get separated if you step away from your party. Also avoid carrying large or baggy backpacks (they may be asked to be checked, like in any club). Keep in mind the music will be loud; if you need quiet time, sitting near the side or at the back lounges is key. Lastly, since Cloud can get quite full, watch your belongings and agree on a meeting spot should someone head out for a break.
Other Tips: If you’re new to hookah, don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations on flavors. And remember to tip your servers, especially if you’ve ordered multiple drinks or a hookah set – strong service is part of the Cloud experience. For late-night travel, Cloud closes around 2 AM (Ontario standard), and buses or taxicabs become limited after hours. If you plan to linger, either arrange your ride in advance or note the last bus time from Bank Street.
What types of events does Cloud host?
Cloud primarily hosts late-night club events. This includes DJ dance parties featuring international, R&B and Middle Eastern (Arabic) music (www.ticketfairy.com ), private celebrations (like birthdays), and themed nights (such as “Beirut in Ottawa” parties). The atmosphere shifts from a relaxed hookah lounge to an energetic dancefloor after dark, so you’ll often find live DJs and a party crowd on weekends.
How do I buy tickets or make a reservation for Cloud?
Cloud doesn’t have an on-site box office. Tickets for special events are sold online (often via event promoters or the venue’s social pages). Watch Cloud’s Facebook/Instagram or websites like TicketFairy and Eventbrite for links to purchase. If it’s a free-admission night, you can usually just walk in. For group table reservations, use the contact/email listed on Cloud’s website; private events can be booked by emailing the venue (lecloudottawa.com ).
Is there a dress code at Cloud?
There is no formal uniform dress code, but the crowd tends to dress “smart casual” or nightclub-style. Neat jeans, nice tops or collared shirts are common. It’s best to avoid extremely casual attire (like flip-flops or gym wear) if you want a smooth entry. When in doubt, upscale casual attire fits the vibe of this hookah lounge.
What is Cloud’s age limit?
Cloud is strictly 19 years or older at all times, in accordance with Ontario alcohol laws (www.ticketfairy.com ). Patrons must show valid government ID (driver’s license or passport) to enter. No minors or children are allowed, even in a group with adults.
Where should I park near Cloud and what are the costs?
Parking on Bank Street itself is metered and usually has time limits (often 2-hour zones in the nearby stores area). For convenience, it’s often better to use the Lansdowne Park lots (behind the stadium or event center) which charge a small fee per hour or a flat overnight rate. These are about a 2–5 minute walk from Cloud. Alternatively, on many weeknights after 6pm the street meters on Bank may be cheaper or free, but always check local signs. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or a taxi drop-off is another easy option, since Cloud’s entrance is right at Bank & Holmwood.
What are the best seats or areas in Cloud?
Cloud is largely open floor, so there aren’t fixed seats. If you prefer a relaxed hookah experience, grab a couch or lounge chair on the side walls. If you want to dance, front and center near the DJ booth is ideal. All areas have decent sightlines – seating along the edges is more intimate, while standing near the DJ gives you full audio immersion. There are no obstructed views, but the rooms can fill up in front of the stage quickly during popular events.
Is Cloud wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Cloud has a street-level entrance and open floor layout, so it’s generally wheelchair-friendly. Staff can assist with entry and find accessible seating spaces. The washrooms should also have an accessible stall. It’s a good idea to call ahead with any specific accessibility questions, but many patrons with mobility devices have visited without issue.
Can I bring my own hookah or smoke other substances?
No, outside hookah or smoking materials are not permitted. All shisha must be provided and prepared by Cloud’s staff, who control the coal heating and safety. This ensures quality and compliance with indoor smoking regulations. Similarly, no illegal substances are allowed – it’s a liquor-licensed venue, so only tobacco-based hookah is used.
Are food and drinks available inside Cloud?
Cloud offers a full beverage menu. You can order alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails) as well as non-alcoholic options (coffee, tea, soda). The focus is more on hookah and drinks than on full meals. There may be small food bites or snack plates (check with staff for current menu), but there is no large kitchen. Many guests eat beforehand (there are several restaurants along Bank Street) and come to Cloud mainly for drinks and shisha.
Does Cloud have Wi-Fi or phone charging?
Yes, Cloud offers free Wi-Fi for customers (password is given at the bar). This makes it easy to share photos or check messages while there. Table power/USB outlets are not guaranteed, so bring any chargers with you if needed. Cell phone reception inside is generally good on all major carriers.
Are there coat checks or lockers available?
Cloud typically provides coat check service in the cooler months for a small fee (common for Ottawa bars). Staff will handle coats at the entrance. During warmer weather, many guests just hang jackets on chairs or racks. There are no lockers, so valuables should stay with you or be locked in your car.
What kind of hookah flavors can I choose?
Cloud has a wide variety of shisha/tobacco flavors. On-site menus advertise both classic flavors and creative mixes - for example, they note a “diverse selection of flavors, from traditional to exotic” (lecloudottawa.com ). This usually includes standard fruit flavors (double apple, mint, grape, etc.) and seasonal or specialty blends (like berry or cola mixes). When you arrive, look at the hookah menu or ask the server for popular choices.
Can I reserve Cloud for a private party?
Yes. Cloud welcomes private events and parties. Their website explicitly mentions hosting everything from private celebrations to corporate gatherings (lecloudottawa.com ). To book a private function, you would contact the venue directly (via the email or form on their site). They will work with you on date, size, and any special arrangements (like a reserved area or customized menu).
Is photography allowed inside Cloud?
Personal photography (phones, small cameras) is generally fine and a common way to capture memories. Most guests snap a few pictures during their visit. However, professional camera equipment or videography often requires permission from management, since it’s a private venue. Always respect other patrons’ privacy and the staff; flash photography is discouraged when the room is dark.
What happens if I lose something or leave it at Cloud?
If you leave an item behind, you should contact Cloud as soon as possible. Call or message their official contact (such as the one on their website) to check for lost items. Cloud staff will have a lost-and-found procedure for items left on tables or coat check. Always double-check your pockets (especially your wallet, keys, phone) before leaving, as many patrons do hang up a coat or put down belongings and forget them in the night’s chaos.
