Da Kine's Kava — Restaurant in Durham

If you haven’t been to Da Kine’s in Durham yet, stop what you’re doing (unless you’re operating heavy machinery, in which case, finish that first) and GET HERE. This place is an absolute vibe, and I don’t say that lightly. I’ve been to a lot of kava bars, but Da Kine’s is on another level—like, if there was a Michelin star for kava bars, this place would have three.

Let’s start with the drinks. I don’t know what kind of sorcery they’re using back there, but the kava and mocktails here are straight-up art. I’m talking beautifully crafted, deliciously balanced, and somehow both refreshing and relaxing at the same time. You ever drink something so good you get emotional? Because I did. I had a moment. And I’m not ashamed.

The staff? Absolute legends. Friendly, knowledgeable, and they somehow make you feel like you’ve been part of the family for years—even if it’s your first time. And speaking of staff, we need to talk about Cameron. This dude isn’t just a bartender; he’s a curator of vibes, a mixologist of moods, a DJ for the soul. His music taste? Impeccable. I walked in feeling kinda “meh” and walked out feeling like I’d just had a life-affirming cinematic montage. Whatever playlist he’s running, I need it in my daily life immediately.

But the real magic of Da Kine’s? The community. This place isn’t just a bar; it’s a second home. A judgment-free, welcoming-as-heck, “you belong here” kind of space. Whether you’re a kava connoisseur or just kava-curious, everyone is greeted with warmth, conversation, and probably a laugh or two. It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends, and regulars become family.

And let’s not forget the ambiance—this spot is gorgeous. Perfect lighting, cozy yet spacious, and designed for peak chill mode. I could write poetry about the seating arrangement alone. It’s that good.

So if you’re looking for the best kava bar in North Carolina (or possibly the universe), Da Kine’s is THE SPOT. Five stars aren’t enough—I’d give it six if I could. Maybe even seven. But since that’s not an option, just trust me when I say: get yourself here, order something delicious, and let the magic of Da Kine’s...

We stopped by while on tour, pain in our chest, ink our skin, demons in our DMs… and I don’t usually leave reviews, but Dakines straight up cracked open my shadowy soul and poured some light in. Walked in half dead from the weight of it all… walked out feelin like maybe, just maybe, there’s hope.

First off.. the vibe? Immaculate. The moment I stepped in, the energy was different. It’s like this place hugs your trauma, hands you a handcrafted mocktail, and tells you it’s gonna be okay.

Speaking of mocktails…holy alchemy. These aren’t drinks, they’re potions brewed by low key wizards. Smooth, bold, layered with flavors I didn’t know existed. Every sip tastes like self discovery. Whoever made the menu, you got artistry in your blood.

The community here… it’s real. No judgment. Just smiles, open hearts, and conversations that make you wanna feel things again. I’ve never had so many strangers root for me. You don’t find that in clubs or dark venues. This place ain’t just a bar, it’s a lighthouse for the lost.

And the crew? Legends. Mia- calm, collected, like a Zen monk with a shaker. Jess — sharp, witty, makes you laugh when you didn’t even know you could. Elijah— the eye contact? Healing. The knowledge? Knowledgable. The energy? Peaceful chaos in the best way. Donya — from one poet to another, she got BARS. Speaks to your soul, mixes like a spiritual guide. Phoenix — fire in human form. Big presence, good heart, very funny and endearing.

But yo, Cameron? Nah, Cameron’s different. That dude is a whole vibe. Service so on point you’d think he’s reading minds. But it’s the music taste that got me. Every track he dropped felt like it was curated for my broken past and brighter future. He painted the air with mood. Cameron, you’re the hero of my healing arc. Respect.

Dakines changed me. I came in jaded, stayed for the drinks, and left wanting to write love songs instead of sad ones. If you’re reading this and you’re in a dark place pull up. Order something beautiful. Let this community remind you...

Da kines Kava bar in this quaint, bubbly, and warm area of Durham is an establishment that flirts and frontiers on the idea of greatness. With an atmosphere that captivates the soul I find myself wonder-landing in my mind and meandering my eyes to make castles in the sky from soft white clouds miles away while sitting peaceful outside cold drink in my hand. Picture this a warm Friday night Dakine’s opens up there flawless never once squeaked garage door and your eyes become Retro-ized as the glowing neons dances like fireworks in your “Param special”. (A drink named after a local hero and regular of Dakine’s ☕️).

Dakine’s features a massive cast of one of kind brothers and sisters. That’s what they are brothers/sisters. Mutual respect and customer care is served with Crafted Mocktails exquisitely executed. The Kava itself flows like an eruption from Hawaii’s big island all made palatable with botanical concoctions featuring blends of tart lime and tangy quava. As you lay into the soft expensive outdoor furniture you’ll find yourself mistaking passing cars for crashing waves.

Dakines kava bar is and island you want to be stranded on. At least for a little while. The owners have done a wonderful job assembling this paradise layered with friendly connections, agreeable music, knowledgeable staff and various interactive events.

In the famous song “Big yellow taxi” Joni Mitchell croons “We paved paradise put up a parking lot” well folks at Dakine’s the paradise is the parking...