Kavahana — Restaurant in Santa Monica

OVERALL EXPERIENCE: Would absolutely come back!! I enjoyed my drink and the effects experienced, that I bought a bag to take home!! If you're looking for an alternative to alcohol, here it is!!

AMBIANCE: I came mid-week, right when they opened, so there were no crowds. Very nice, relaxed vibes. Noise level was low. Limited indoor seating, with bar seating. Outdoor patio tables, where dogs are welcome!

DRESS CODE: Smart Casual

ORDERED: I had no idea what I was getting into but Neil was super friendly and took the time to educate/inform me.

I ordered the Zen Nectar and added a triple shot of Kava (matcha fans, this one is for you!). I was also able to taste the kava on it's own, just mixed with water and it wasn't bad at all!

this was my first time consuming kava, so I went with the recommended of a triple shot. After about 45mins, I started to feel the effects and was super relaxed. I was worried it would affect my ability to drive, but Neil reassured me that Kava does not inhibit you. However, I would recommend drinking Kava in a chilled setting (not in a setting where you have to focus your attention LOL).

Purchased the Kava Relax Edition ($44 w taxes).

SERVICE: Service was exceptional!

PRICE: $23 for my drink (with the triple shot)

PARKING: street (metered), limited spaces in the back

Food: 5/5 stars Service: 5/5...

If you’re looking for something truly unique, this is a must try. They specialize in ancient inspired beverages with their kava nectar that feel like an earthy, 3,000 year old chill in a cup. If you take the shots, know the root is part of the peppercorn family and gives your tongue a fun little tingle!

I loved exploring their menu. The Bright Smooth Kona Latte was a perfect, mellow pick me up, and the Lava Salted Caramel had just the right balance of sweet and savory. The Rose Latte was delicate and fragrant, and the Beach Nectar 2.0 was so velvety. If you need a daytime boost, the Zener Energy Nectar Special comes with a shot of the original nectar on the side in a fun cup, recommend trying it. (Kava nectar shot is earthy)

The vibe here is fantastic. The staff are extremely friendly and welcoming. There’s an indoor seating area, bar top seating, and a great outdoor patio to soak up the Santa Monica air. I also loved that they have a selection of games you can take to your table, and they host other activities during the week, so definitely check their website or socials to see what’s happening.

Parking- some spaces in a lot and street parking. If you are ready try something new and adventurous, I’d absolutely...

We recently visited this kava bar as part of our nationwide tour of kava lounges, and unfortunately, it was one of the most disappointing experiences we’ve had so far. The kava itself was poorly prepared — more like bitter sludge than a proper prep. It was unmixed, with a large amount of powder collecting in the bottom of the cup, making it the most unpleasant we’ve had to drink.

On top of that, cleanliness was a concern. We saw a black rat of some type right outside the open back door leading to the bar, which was unsettling. Service also left a lot to be desired. Despite approaching the staff and owner with kindness, the hospitality was not reciprocated, and staff made several new friends uncomfortable.

To put it simply: service was a 1 out of 10, the kava barely a 1. Out of the many kava bars we’ve visited across the country, this one ranks at the very bottom — and that’s something we truly wish weren’t the case, because we wanted to like this place. It seems tbe owner is dealing with some obvious mental health needs. And we wish her the best, But as far as our experience tonight, a one star is...