Real Botanicals staff are regular purveyors of the "kava and chill" vibe. Why? Because kava imparts holistic, plant-based wellness and enhances our connections to self and others. Kava is truly an exceptional, unique plant.
Life can be stressful and busy. We all need time and space to unwind, recharge, and connect. The traditional bar scene is, well, you know. That's why we're excited to tell you all about a new way to unwind—by yourself, with friends, or on that let's-get-to-know-each-other first date.
Kava bars are trending in the US for good reason—because people seriously need a good way to chill. We hear this from our customers all the time.
But what is a kava bar? Why do people go to kava bars? What's the vibe like?
Grab your tiki torches and grass skirts because today we're virtually visiting your next favorite way to have a relaxing good time! (Coconut bras are optional.)
WHAT the HECK Is a Kava Bar?
(And why won't my friends shut up about it?)
Well, we can't speak for your friends, but we're pretty excited about kava bars, too. It's the kind of place you go to and then try to put into words. It's like the Bula spirit settles in, and once you're in the know, you want to share that experience with others.
If you're new to kava, that's ok. We'll tell you everything you need to know about kava and what you might expect from a kava bar near you.
First, a kava bar is an establishment where the main feature on the menu is kava-infused drinks. The purpose is to provide people a space (and the kava) to relax, unwind, and socialize in a comfortable, laid-back scene. Or just sit, read a book, and enjoy some relaxation.
When traveling, we try to hit up any kava bar in the area. They are all a bit different, though one thing is consistent—the welcoming atmosphere and the soothing kava beverages. Plus, it's our favorite botanical to enjoy while using different types of kratom.
What Can I Expect at a Kava Bar?
There are many versions of these bars because they are usually small businesses, privately owned by people like you and me, who have made their vision a reality. Besides purpose and menu, kava bars vary quite a lot, each a unique representation of the owner's heart and creative vision. Many of these small business owners want to bring value and meaning to the social scenes in their community.
At your local kava bar, you might see:
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A pleasant alternative to traditional bars (quieter, cleaner, more personal, etc.)
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A friendly, welcoming spirit.
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Interesting decor to set the vibe. (For example, some cater to the college scene, some resemble coffee shops, and others have an artsy or beachy theme.)
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A bar or counter where kava drinks or mocktails are ordered. (The mixologist is called a "kavatender".)
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Comfy and social seating arrangements to promote relaxation and comfort.
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Small, intimate gathering spaces for people to socialize, and enjoy the effects of kava together.
Kava bars are popping up across the US, especially in college towns, cities, and upscale suburban areas. Wherever you find a kava bar, here's what you need to know before you go.
Are you also taking ashwagandha? Here's what you need to know about kava vs ashwagandha.
Types of Kava
Kava bars in the US are inspired by the history of a special plant called kava, also called kava kava (yes, like the supplements you see at health food stores). It's made from the roots of the Piper methysticum plant, native to the South Pacific islands.
Traditional kava is more potent than most drugstore supplements because it is not diluted with fillers and preservatives. Real, authentic kava root powder is very bitter and is usually stirred into water, creating a milky, muddy "tea".
There are two main types of kava: noble and non-noble, the former being the better in quality. Kava hails from several areas in the South Pacific, including Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Hawaii.
Benefits of Kava
If it's your first time hearing of kava, or if you've been curious about what all the fuss is about, let's take a look at what this bitter herb can do. Kava is known for:
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Promoting sociability.
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Invoking a sense of community
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Nourishing a sense of belonging.
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Embracing a new cultural experience.
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Offering a non-alcoholic way to relax and unwind.
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Helping people feel less stressed and release the worries of life.
On top of all of that, kava may even help you ease sore muscles and get a good night's sleep!
Learn a little more about the differences of kava vs kratom.
What Does Kava Taste Like?
Your first taste of kava is something you won't forget. Good kava powders are strong. The taste is earthy, bitter, and can make your lips, tongue, and mouth tingle a little. Don't be alarmed, that's normal!
Because of its natural bitterness, kava is often mixed with natural sweeteners, fruit juices, or coconut milk, all of which can mask the pungency and make it more palatable. It isn't necessarily bad tasting, but we admit the flavor isn't for everyone. Don't let this deter you from trying kava in a variety of forms and flavors!
Because the kavalactones in kava (the working molecules that make you feel good) are unique to kava. They help get you in the mood for relaxing, vibing with new people, and enjoying social connections with friends and other kava lovers.
Thankfully, there are NO nasty hangovers or embarrassing intoxication! Because the kava plant doesn't intoxicate the mind and body the way that alcohol does. It's also non-addictive and has few adverse effects.
Potential Kava Side Effects
There are some side effects associated with kava use. Many are mild, and it can vary from person to person. More serious side effects can be the result of ongoing/heavy use.
Before using kava, talk to your doctor, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or take medications. Like many herbal supplements, kava may tax the liver, especially if you have a liver condition. It's not advised to combine kava use with alcohol use.
Why Do People Go to Kava Bars?
The weekend is fast approaching, and you're stretched so thin you think you might just scream. Work is stressful, there's so much to do at home, your social media is a mess of people arguing over this and that—and all you want is a quiet place to chill, maybe spend some time with your friends.
We get it. Totally. Times like this call for a relaxing kava drink and possibly a new scene. Kava may relax you, but it's not like alcohol. That is why more and more people are turning to kava as the preferred way to unwind. In short, kava brings people together.
At your local kava bar there's a little something for everyone. Kind of like at coffee shops that also carry smoothies and herbal teas—the more versatile the menu at a kava bar, the more options you have to enjoy your time there.
People go to kava bars for many reasons:
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They are sick of alcohol & traditional bars: As an alternative to the traditional bar scene. (Most kava bars are alcohol-free.)
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They like the free wifi: There's often free wi-fi so people may take the laptop and get a little schoolwork done while sipping kava.
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They like the relaxing ambiance: The relaxing atmosphere sets a kava bar apart from other social scenes.
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They want to enhance their social connections (or make new ones): The intimate environment lends to more profound connection with others.
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They like the welcoming community: Kava bars are come-as-you-are, welcoming all types of people to one relaxing kava community.
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They want some really good kava: Many people just want to try different kava drinks!
What's the Kava Experience Like?
Many kava bars are decorated with an "island" vibe, with tiki torches and the like. But not all of them. A kava bar in your town may not look all that much different than a regular bar, a quaint coffee shop, or a college hangout. Each kava bar is unique, but one thing connects them all—the spirit of openness, welcome, and nature's comfort.
Whether you're seeking new friends or looking for a place to unwind on your way home from work, your local kava bar has more on the menu than traditional drinks of kava powders. In fact, the menu is usually diverse and inclusive of nature-inspired wellness smoothies, teas, and mocktails.
Kava Culture: Bula!
One thing to remember about kava is that it has a rich, welcoming tradition. "Bula" is a traditional Fijian greeting that means "hello". But this one word also communicates wishes of good fortune, good health, and happiness. Some "kavatenders" (kava bar tenders) may greet you in this way as you make your menu selections.
Let's take a look at what many kava bars serve in this generous island spirit.
Kava Categories of Drinks on the Menu
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Traditional Kava Drink: Classic kava drinks are made by mixing powdered kava root with water or coconut milk, and served in a coconut shell or wooden bowl.
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Kava Tea: A kava tea can be brewed into warm water, if you prefer to drink your kava in this "Western" way. These may be less potent than traditional kava mixtures and are a great introduction to the herb.
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Kava Cocktails: Kava cocktails, or "mocktails," are diverse drinks mixed with juices, and resemble traditional cocktails, only without alcohol. Some bars have a signature mocktail on the menu.
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Kava Shots: Concentrated shots of kava can be a quick way to get the evening started. These are like traditional kava drinks but with less water.
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Kava Smoothies: Kava powders go well in smoothies with fruit, yogurt, non-dairy kinds of milk, or juice concentrates.
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Herbal teas: Herbal teas may also dot the menu—everything from green tea to chamomile to passionflower.
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Other earthy drinks: You don't necessarily need to drink kava at a kava bar. Maybe matcha or kombucha is more your thing.
Do They Serve Kratom at Kava Bars?
Yes, many bars will also have kratom drinks or CBD-infused drinks on the menu. This is a modern twist on the original kava bars, but we're here for it! In fact, kratom and kava pair well together. We've got Kratom + Kava shots right here on our website!
Be sure to check out our latest kava kratom drinks or our line of enhanced 7-hydroxymitragynine products to buy!
For More Info on Kava: Search Our Blog
Kava bars present a great alternative to alcohol, elevating the experience you might find at a traditional alcohol-based social scene. Bring your book to read, your laptop to get some work done, or show up, grab a kava drink, and make new connections. Kava bars are a relaxing alternative for a date, a night out with friends, or a quick and relaxing lunch break.
If you're new to Real botanicals products, we've got some great resources for education— like kratom capsules vs powder and a Real Kratom Dosage Guide—to help you get started on your journey. We hope you'll check out your local kava bar—maybe you'll see us there.
Bula!