First time coming here and really enjoyed the overall experience and vibe. My friend ordered a chai kava drink and I went with the ube coconut drink. Both were super good in their own unique way. Definitely a lively crowd even when we visited on a Wednesday evening, but I really enjoyed it. I look forward to coming back. read more

Kava Collective - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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I'm so glad I decided to check out Kava Collective. I had been wanting to try Kava for a while now as alternative to going out for drinks. I definitely will be coming back here. The vibes are very chill and cozy. read more

Kava Collective - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Strong community, great service, emotional support. Thank you guys for your work you have the best Kava. read more

Kava Collective - Want to say thanks to the guys for creating such a strong community and support with great servise. - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

This was my first time trying kava! A friend of mine suggested this place when I told him that I wasn't drinking. I've seen this place a thousand times, but never really checked it out. We went in and the bartender (what do you call them??) gave me a sample of their OG kava since I've never had one before. I did not like it, but perhaps that's what it's supposed to taste like? The customer next to me said that the OG is usually too strong for a first-timer. My friend suggested trying the "cocktail" version and yes this turned out good! It was a little sweet and served on ice, it was a great, relaxing, refreshing drink. We managed to find a couple of seats by the bar. The place is always packed, but everyone here was very friendly; they would make space for you to squeeze in, chatted with you etc. Seemed like a good place to meet new people. They also have a cabinet full of board games! read more

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Loved the vibes here. Super chill and friendly atmosphere. My matcha latte came out great! I had a nice time reading a book on one of the couches. It's super spacious. read more

Kava Collective - Matcha latte + espresso shot - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Love this place! Had so much fun but the patio closes too soon. I guess the hours changed? Would have been perfect if not for that. read more

Im visiting from Florida (where kava bars are a huge thing), so it was nice to find a kava bar here in SD! Such a lovely space with a large bar and back room for a more quiet experience. The drinks were decently priced and I definitely can tell it's good quality! The kava-tenders are all very friendly and willing to answer questions. Dog friendly which is nice! It always looks very clean and tidy every time I'm here too. I love coming here every week since I've been here. read more

Can you believe that today is my first time as a Polynesian drinking kava? Yup, at nearly 64 years old, I am finally trying this traditional drink. It's just like my uncles described, rooty with a numbing effect in my mouth. Relaxing. Thank you to Jacob for serving me my first kava! read more

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If you're looking for someone who truly goes above and beyond, i would highly recommend you come to this place when Julia is working! Their customer service is top-notch -- warm, attentive, and genuinely caring. You can tell julia loves what she does and actually cares about the customers. She always greets me with a smile and makes me feel welcomed the whole time. It's rare to find someone who's not only great at their job, but also brings such positive energy to the space. you'll leave not only satisfied, but probably in a better mood than when you came in! Thank you Julia for always making it such a positive experience when I come in !! read more

I have been coming here as a patron for quite a while & I always recommend this spot to all of my sober fam. I threw an event here recently so I want to leave a review about the event space. I was in contact with a guy named Jeff who was so incredibly helpful. Jeff really knew his stuff and was very direct so there were no guessing games. The art gallery is used as the event space and it's soooo incredibly beautiful!! They had so much seating and chairs which was great. There were about 35 of us in here and it was still very comfortable. I wish they did a little bit more marketing on their social media for the event, but that's not uncommon for venues. We did a workshop on boundaries and we are hoping to hold more workshops here in the future. It was great for guests so they could grab a drink before the event started and they were able to relax and settle in. They also have two bathrooms so it made that part very easy as well. read more

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Cute spot located in hillcrest area with plenty of seating around. I tried the ube kava and it had a nice hint of ube flavoring to it. Might have to come back another time to try the other fun flavors and the mock version of the kava drinks they have here! read more

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I went into Kava Collective with my daughter, and while the drinks themselves were good, the customer service and overall environment were absolutely horrendous. From the staff to the regulars, it was hands down the most unwelcoming atmosphere I have ever experienced. Not one courtesy (fake) smile. Not one shred of friendliness. I walked in smiling, and the silence and stares that followed made it feel like we had just walked into the wrong place entirely. The whole vibe screamed that we weren't wanted there. The only way I can describe it is like stepping into a scary movie where you roll into a small town that looks normal enough from the outside, but the second you walk in, every conversation stops and everyone turns to stare. It's the kind of place you know you shouldn't stay, but you need gas or directions so you go in anyway. That was exactly what this place felt like. Yes, the drinks are good. But when an establishment makes you feel like the outsider in a horror movie, it overshadows everything else. Kava Collective left a lasting impression, and not in a good way. Get your drinks to go read more

Folks, let me tell you--I've been to many bars. The best bars, the most luxurious bars, the strongest bars. But Kava Collective? Totally different. No alcohol, no hangovers--just pure relaxation, folks. I walked in high-energy, ready to negotiate a billion-dollar deal, and I walked out feeling like I just won the best nap of my life. Absolutely incredible. Now, the kava--very strong, very powerful. They serve it in coconut shells, very classy, very tropical. I took a sip, and boom--instant relaxation. Some people drink wine, some people do yoga--total waste of time! One coconut of kava, and you feel like a champion on vacation. They should be serving this at the U.N., we'd have world peace in five minutes! The atmosphere? Tremendous. Dim lights, relaxing music, very zen, very chill. It's like a spa, but for your brain. No fights, no rowdy people--just good vibes, folks. You walk in stressed, you leave floating on a cloud. I saw a guy just staring at a wall, totally peaceful--probably had the best thoughts of his life. The people? Fantastic crowd. Super friendly, very mellow--nobody's angry, nobody's causing problems. You know why? Because they're drinking kava. It's like magic, folks. It's like a brain massage, but legal. Now, a warning--it makes your mouth numb. Nobody tells you this! First sip, and I thought, oh no, is this a dental procedure? But then--boom! Total relaxation, very powerful effect. I'd call it the most peaceful mouth-numbing experience of all time. Overall, Kava Collective is a winner. No stress, no hangovers, just good energy. The best kava, the best vibes, the best way to feel like a billionaire on a beach without actually being on a beach. Five stars. Greatest kava bar of all time. Believe me. -- Donald J. Relaxation Expert & Coconut Connoisseur read more

Really love everything about this spot EXCEPT the amount of plastic utilized. Serving medicinal root juice in plastic really broke that barrier. Coconut shell cups are pretty standard. Why not here?! Would have received 5 read more

Kava Collective - Roots in plastic! - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Drinks, Service, Ambiance, Community, Good vibes, this place has it all. If I lived in San Diego I'd be coming here regularly read more

Kava Collective - Great vibes. Good drinks. Amazing Music. 10/10 - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Ambiance was good! Friendly staff! Really enjoyed my time here. Had a horchata kava and another fruity kava it was good!

While the taste of Kava wasn't quite for me on my first try, the exceptional customer service here more than made up for it! They were so welcoming, offering a free Kava tasting and really making us feel comfortable. The vibes were super laid-back and enjoyable. If you're curious about Kava or looking for a new spot, definitely check this place out! read more

Kava Collective - Menu - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Rachel is such a sweetheart. It was me and my friend Sarah's first time here and Rachel was very welcoming. She explained Kava and its properties and the feeling it gives you so well. She made us feel so comfortable. The whole entire experience was amazing. She gave us a free taste test. The feel of the entire place is amazing. Love the atmosphere. Will definitely be coming back. She's also drop dead gorgeous !! read more

Great environment with great people. Julia is my personal favorite kava tender. She provides efficient service and is always so bubbly and happy. She really knows how to make you feel welcome. She provides excellent and on time service unlike anything I have ever seen. If I could give her 10 stars I would. read more

After have a few less than pleasant visits, I had a chance meeting with Jeremy here at Kava Collective. Jeremy is exactly why Kava Collective has a great reputation and reviews Very cool employee, knowledgeable, always positive and willing to share his knowledge of Kava and its history. Cheers! read more

AMAZING service We came in and talked to the bartender, and he explained to us what Kava is and how it affects you, gave us a shot to take with him and then told us about the menu we got the 16oz of the Apple ginger Kava and Ube Taro Kava. Sooo good! got the tingles which I love :) and woke up without a hangover I am from out of town but so glad I decided to check this place out, will be back when i'm in SD! read more

Loved this place! Chill vibe, friendly crowd and the ginger kava quad $12 actually tasted good. Spoke a bit with the owner Glen who is awesome, btw. We are so lucky that he is making this incredible space available to us. I really loved the bar that is made from a walnut tree. The couches in the front are comfy, and we loved the back patio that has two fire pits and a real Aspen chalet balcony feel. I'm still not convinced the kava is doing anything for me, but I'm willing to keep trying. read more

Kava Collective - Ginger kava quad $12 - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This place has a UNIQUE vibe. It's really indescribable. The art room is constantly changing, local artist giving a taste of culture to this hip spot. It's that's my favorite part about. A buddy was allowed to throw his little birthday shin dig there in the art gallery. However, there is a very strong sense of local community too. It's like that show Cheers "where everybody knows your name." Well, they didn't know mine, lol. Butttt, they knew everyone of the group I went with and everyone was inviting and friendly. Inside there are lounge chairs and stools that provided an ambiance of hip zen yet exciting. The vibe was relaxing. The back patio had numerous fire pits for hanging out. Perfect for the non drinker because they serve KAVA. Strangely enough I live in the Hipster area of Long Beach and there isn't one kava bar like this. Maybe deep in the cut of Los Angeles but for me this little SD gem was a hit. Can be a little intimidating at first but it's worth checking out. read more

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I love this place. It's super relaxed and as such it allows the mind to reach. There are regulars as well as regular meetings. I love the taro or ube flavored concoctions. read more

Drinks and atmosphere are friggin' amazing, and I'm excitedly holding onto that fifth star until I try the food.

Thought I'd stop in for a iced pineapple mango kombucha after a long walk to cool off and check out their new Photography exhibit by Matt Grey..Very nice work, hope you enjoy it. read more

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Love this place ! The Ube kava is amazing! We shall visit again! Thank you for the chill vibes ...

So, I first experienced Kava in Fiji (where it originated) and found the whole tradition and ritual process of the preparation very interesting. It doesn't taste great... kind of like water mixed with dirt, but the "ceremony" part of it is more the focus. That being said... This place offers a more "sports bar" type vibe and flavored Kava (which is an American spin on a traditional drink) definitely not a fan! I don't think I would come here again. read more

Kava Collective - Inside - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This was only my second time having kava when going here. It's an interesting experience and vibe. I like the kava and how it makes me feel. They dimmed the lights at a certain point. Just wish they had more space to put more couches because they were taken when we got there. read more

Great place to play chess, get some kava, good community. Personally a second home, people are friendly & welcoming. Wednesday 1/2 off read more

Kava Collective - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Love the kava here, it's a great place to relax. There is an outdoor area if you'd like too. It can get busy in here, but they're always on it. read more

One of the bartenders is a pompous jerk, drinks are expensive now and if you're a minority better think twice lol.

This place was super cool! I didn't know this place existed until my friend from out of town who loves kava searched up a place for it. They had some fun flavors like ube and passion fruit mango and there was a lot of seating indoor and out! read more

Chill spot to relax, do work, or hang with friends! & that giant tree as soon as you enter is so awesome! They serve Kava, of course, flavored & unflavored, herbal teas, & more. They have loads of board games & if you follow their IG, they have a ton of events too, like their Full Moon Ceremonies. read more

I read the reviews and this spot seems like the kind of spot that I would love. We came here on Super Bowl Sunday and there was tons of people.... A real super spreader. The space is cozy with the indoor tree and art gallery next door. I ended up leaving because it was so crowded. We weren't even able to order. I'm sure on any other day outside Super Bowl Sunday, this space would be real zen to be around. read more

I'm a regular because we are a community of diverse people who love to talk, play games and root for our teams

SERVICE WAS TERRIBLE TONIGHT. I've been coming here for a few years and I've never experienced something like tonight. The LONG BLONDE HAIR MALE server blew up on me and called me and my friends rude when we haven't done anything. He said he expected us to tip high percentages! All he does for us is pour a cup of Kratom so I'm not sure why that deserves a 4$ tip. He doesn't start conversation all he does is pour the cup. He was EXTREMELY RUDE and did this in front of a bunch of guests. I would say I love this place but I'm not so sure anymore. read more

After a hiatus of several years when I experienced brutal and blatant racism from the owner Dillon, I reentered this establishment tonight. Thinking I'd done my due diligence to ensure it would be a safe space for me, I entered the front door bordered by rainbow flags and BLM signage. To my dismay, Dillon was my server again. Front and center, the only employee behind the bar. Of course I immediately remembered him, as traumatized individuals often do. In 2019, I witnessed him wearing a confederate military uniform topped off with a confederate flag on the hat. I respectfully engaged him inviting him to discuss the harm his choice was having. He defended himself incessantly declaring reverence toward his relative, Stonewall Jackson. Subsequently, his buddies gathered around and taunted me as well. Tonight I kindly (re)introduced myself. Upon reminding him of our first interaction and asking if he still loved that uniform, he replied proudly that he did. Unable to look in my eye, he scurried away like a roach behind a a curtain where he immediately grabbed another sympathetic ear and began pointing and laughing at me. What hurts my heart most is that this establishment boasts inclusivity and a sense of belonging. Twelve Step and other recovery meetings occur in the side room. Artists are wooed to show here. People like myself -- BIPOC, queer, presumably enlightened individuals seeking a sanctuary to be themselves -- fill the back patio every night and discuss self improvement and lofty humanitarian ideals. And yet, we're simply being duped by the worst form of performative allyship. Dillon was respectfully offered time and space to converse, learn, and grow. Twice, by me alone. And -- as I'm told -- his coworkers have also addressed these matters with him. But his business partners who continue to permit him to represent their establishment are equally complicit in allowing this type of flagrant racism to occur openly in their establishment. So, fool me once. I simply cannot patronize this business. And I feel responsible to educate the beautiful humans, who, if they knew the truth, might do better by putting their dollars elsewhere. Or, better yet, stand up directly for what is right and just and human. Please think before spending your money here and allowing this type of hateful behavior to continue. read more

Great atmosphere, good prices, good Kava, and a fun time. I've been here a few times now and I continue to come back for multiple reasons. First the Kava is great, very smooth and delicious. Its 5 bucks for a non flavored single, which is about the normal price you will find around. I definitely recommend the non flavored one. If you like earthy tastes, you will love it. It's a good cup or kava too, gets the job done. Second, the atmosphere is so cool. They have a tree in the front with lights in it, and it's just a cool thing to sit by lol. The couches are very comfortable as well, my friend and I usually have to peel ourselves off to leave. There is a table with a little zen rock garden, cute. Music choice is great. They have games and there are definitely always regulars sitting at the car. Third, the service is pretty awesome. I've seen 3 different people working behind the bar and I have gotten great service from all of them. Something else that's really cool that they do, which I'm still discovering as I go different days, is they have a different type of promo each day. Like ladies night or all you can drink. I once got to spin a wheel and got a free quad! Pretty cool. I havent tried their other items yet, however kombucha is next on the list, but I'm sure they are all great! HIGHLY RECCOMEND read more

Kava Collective - Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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I pass by this place all the time since it's right in my neighborhood, and after reading about kava, I thought I would stop in. First, they were very unfriendly--barely greeted me as I stood by the bar and waited. Finally, someone helped me, and I told her it was my first time there and drinking kava. She handed me a menu without any explanation. When she returned, I asked her about the kava, and she briefly mentioned the different varieties--that was about it. I ordered a 16-ounce cup for $12 to go. After walking out and taking a few sips, I noticed the effects around my throat and mouth right away. I wish she had explained the possible effects beforehand. There's no way I could drink 16 ounces in one sitting. It tasted like mud, but I had read about that. I probably won't be back, which is too bad because I love neighborhood spots. Usually, they're a lot more welcoming, and I would have liked to try their kombucha. read more