Temple of Ankh, the hookah bar at 58 Clinton Street, is dealing with more legal troubles this week. Back in January, the NYPD closed the establishment after state regulators accused owner Wahed Shenouda of violating workers’ compensation laws. Those charges were later dropped. This past weekend, the 7th Precinct was back at Temple of Ankh, after obtaining a temporary restraining order in civil court.
The bar was not shut down, but Shenouda is due in court this morning to answer allegations related to underage drinking, late night noise and unlicensed “bottle service” in a second floor lounge. The bar has a wine and beer license — not a full liquor permit. Several months ago, Shenouda and manager Sam Shakhlol were arrested after booze was found in the establishment. At the time, Shakhlol told us people had carried liquor into the bar without his knowledge. He added that the scrutiny from police was unwarranted.
A few months ago, Shenouda sought Community Board 3’s approval to upgrade Temple of Ankh’s license. Given the bar’s legal troubles, members of CB3’s liquor licensing panel made it clear they could not support the application.
