I've since moved from Tallahassee, but this was one of my go-to places. I first went here when I was fresh out of university and wanted to celebrate the fact that I'd been offered a new job: I was looking for a more conventional experience of sitting down at some fine restaurant or upscale bar with a glass of wine, but then I stumbled into Kavakaze. Being fresh out of university the first thing that struck me was that the atmosphere reminded me a lot of lowkey shindigs I'd been invited to at classmates' apartments where we'd play beer pong (there was a kava pong table set up here at the time), play Cards Against Humanity, or just sit around sipping drinks and watching South Park/Family Guy reruns on the television. The feeling was instantly one of nostalgia. I hadn't tried kava at the time (I'd tried kratom previously at the suggestion of a friend who was trying to seduce me, and, again, the nostalgia trip led me to try it again here) but the kava they served was a treat. Other reviews here address how the atmosphere at Kavakaze has shifted over the years. I could also say that the vibe has since changed, but a lot is really variable depending on the time you go. It was definitely student-oriented (mainly undergrads) when I started going, but since then attracted young professionals (along with a smaller minority of middle-aged and elderly customers) and even at one point served as a venue for a local politician to host a campaign event. That said, it really is variable depending on who's slinging your beverages at the specific time you go here. Some nights here are a bit more chill, some are a bit more of a pseudo-nightclub environment, and if you go on weekend afternoons you can still get the "casual get-together at a friend's place" vibe. I really liked the bartenders here. You could talk about anything and everything with them without being told that you were being inappropriate/needed to shut up, as long as you avoided getting into any kind of heated argument. There was usually something interesting on the TV, like a movie, a stand-up comedy routine, or a music video. I'm also not quite sure who else this might be important to, but if you're an ambivert (that is, not consistently an introvert or an extrovert) then this place is more than suitable both to hang out and meet cool people or just to read and/or study alone (possibly game if you bring a PC). I think if there's one word I could use to describe this place it's a tie between "versatile" and "dynamic". Definitely one of the recommended spots in Tally. read more

Kicked out for no clear reason. It was empty and my friends and I were the only ones there talking. They claimed we were intoxicated before but did not elaborate on it read more

I went here not really knowing what it was one of my buddies suggested it so we went and we had a great time. The staff was extremely helpful and the drinks were great. The vibe of the place was so chill we ended up just hanging out there for 2 hours playing one of the many board games they have. Definitely going back on the regular. read more

Staff is really helpful and friendly. It's a great atmosphere for studying or hanging out with friends. One of my favorite spots!

Ask for Greg, he's a great guy and will "take care of you" for a fee ;) good drinks good vibes and great handies

Kavakaze is a great bar which I truly enjoy frequenting. The kavatenders care about the experience of the customers and provide superb service. They make their shifts fun, each with a different approach somehow still seamlessly fitting into the environment. Some describe the atmosphere as combining the social aspects of a bar with the focus of a coffee shop. Although I could agree, I think there's nothing quite like Kavakaze - which is what makes the bar so captivating. The kratom is cheaper than that of other kava bars I've been to but remains high in quality. There are four strains which provide varying effects and degrees thereof, such as moderate euphoria. I like that two types of kratom drinks are offered: brü, a brewed tea of extracted alkaloids, and strain drinks, powdered kratom mixed smooth with water. Both can be sweetened by adding a flavor or mixing juice into the drink. I prefer four grams of green strain with orange juice, it provides moderate euphoric effects and masks the bitterness of kratom powder. Above all, I typically suggest Kavakaze for the people I've come to know there. Transitioning into adult life, when one enters college, can be at times very difficult and lonely... For how uplifting the environment can be, it is nice when life is too much. As the world reveals its beauty, you can then return and share that with others. The love is cyclical if you make it so. After all, there are always stimulating and meaningful connections to be found... Therefore I suggest you visit and try some kratom. read more

Since all the other reviews are from when Kavakaze was under previous management, I have come to address the current state. The old reviews have complained about it being too bright, but now Kavakaze is a warm-lit atmosphere with friendly bartenders. They have lowered the prices in the recent years, probably due to the growing popularity of other kava and kratom bars in the area. Another previous complaint from other reviewers was about the loud music, and I'm here to say that it depends on who the bartender is, since bartender is also the DJ. It also depends on what time of the day it is- loud music at night is reasonable. I think Kavakaze is a great place to hang out and play games with friends, considering the place has a pool table and a games section. I personally enjoy drinking the kratom, but there's also a selection of tea, kombucha, CBD, and kava to choose from, along with daily specials and deals. read more

I have been to kava bars before but never have I ever actually had kava, so my friends and I came here to see what all the fuss was about. Right off the bat, the atmosphere is incredibly uninviting -- the lights are so bright in this place that you feel like you're about to go into an interrogation or have surgery performed on you. There is a simple bar and then a few tables and couches. Not a whole lot of seating. Most of the place is empty space. The bar area is completely exposed, another issue amplified by the terrible atmosphere and the bright lighting. Again, all the other kava bars I've been to have been lounge-like, so that means moody lighting and chill music. There was none of that here. It's $25 for a bowl of kava. The stuff tastes and looks like dirt. You drink it and you want to throw up, pretty much. Most people are only drinking this for the relaxed feeling you get from kava. I had a little buzz but nothing too crazy. It wore off rather quickly. I think the price for this stuff is pretty steep. Also I was incredibly put off by seeing the bartender making the kava with a white t-shirt at the bar. I literally could see him ringing it out. It was gross. They only serve tea as their other beverage and their water they used as a "chaser" was lukewarm tap water. This is Tallahassee's only kava bar which means it already monopolizes the kava market here. That being said, there is a massive room for improvement with this place but I still would probably never come back. read more

had a very nice young lady named shelby take care and help me out on what to get and try while i was there experiencing something new. will definitely be here again soon! read more

Suppose that you were sitting down at this table. The kratom is in front of you, which kratom would you take? The one on your 'left'? Or the one on your 'right'? The one on your left side? Or the one on your right side? Usually you would take the one on your left side. That is 'correct' too. But in a larger sense on society, that is wrong. Perhaps I could even substitute 'society' with the 'Universe'. The correct answer is that 'It is determined by the one who takes his or her own kratom first.' ...Yes? If the first one takes the kratom to their right, then there's no choice but for others to also take the 'right' kratom. The same goes for the left. Everyone else will take the kratom to their left, because they have no other option. This is 'society'... Who are the ones that determine the price of land first? There must have been someone who determined the value of money, first. The size of the rails on a train track? The magnitude of electricity? Laws and Regulations? Who was the first to determine these things? Did we all do it, because this is a Republic? Or was it Arbitrary? NO! The one who took the kratom first determined all of these things! The rules of this world are determined by that same principle of 'right or left?'! In a Society like this table, a state of equilibrium, once one makes the first move, everyone must follow! In every era, this World has been operating by this kratom principle. And the one who 'takes the kratom first' must be someone who is respected by all. It's not that anyone can fulfill this role... Those that are despotic or unworthy will be scorned. And those are the 'losers'. In the case of this table, the 'eldest' or the 'Master of the party' will take the kratom first... Because everyone 'respects' those individuals. 5/5 pretty good kratom read more

Definitely has a cool aesthetic and vibe, owner and workers seem to know the people who frequent there / are their friends but try their best to make a newcomer feel welcome. Great at explaining products and helping choose what a newbie might like! My significant other frequents this establishment more than I do and loves it. She has never had a bad experience with kava. I felt nauseous after I tried my first kava drink, but my second time I did not feel/get sick and was better. Had to find the right combo of grams and juice and I was set. Some people study in there, but I cant imagine doing so because it's a little dark and can get busy/noisy depending on time of day. read more

Not a welcoming environment for people who just stumble upon the place out of curiosity. It's seems to be invite only energy flowing through there. read more

Kava and kratom is amazing. I love to get the double shell kava and sit around and enjoy the friends I have here

Really nice vibes in here except the TV was kinda loud and felt out of place. As for the kava itself, this was my first time drinking it. I didn't expect to feel anything, but I actually felt kind of lightheaded. It's been a few hours since I've drank two teas and I feel hungover and nauseous. Not sure if this was the kava or the food I ate afterwards. I would go back to chill but I think my experimentation with kava is over. read more

Love coming here! Great atmosphere. All the workers here are super nice and great to talk to. I come here often just to hang out and make great friends. If you need a chill spot to take your friends, get over here already! P.s. Ryan behind the bar is great read more

I'm going to be very clear why I will never come to this establishment. I went in tonight after eating at Asian Rox, drawn in by the paintings on the wall, and the fact that my flu addled brain HAD to remember what Kava was. The space was wholly univinting. It didn't suprise me that no one was there. Too bright, too loud and the... Bartender?... was very eager to reasure me several times that their Kava was the best in America. A quick word of advice, before I get to my inexcusable no-no. Never say your "company/food/whatnot" is the best. Let others say it for you. When you have to verbally assert you are the best... You're not. It's that simple. Now. I know for a fact Kava can not be mixed with other sedatives, like benzos, barbs, or even OTC medicines that induce drowsiness. You can induce respiratory failure, coma, or death. The tender did not know this fact and when I asked him on it he assured me from a place of confidence that it was safe to take while on those meds. No interaction. Strike 3, you're out. You don't know your product well enough to know that major point of safety? No thank you. read more

Went here not knowing what Kava or Kratom really did. The bartender was super chill and guaranteed that if I didnt feel my Kratom cocktail he would give me a shot! It was a great experience and something that I am now trying to get my friends into. Overall great vibes at this place and very welcoming. read more

Kratum is good and not overpriced but everyone who works there and goes there is white and the place is mad gentrified. All the people are weird so I usually get my drink to go read more

If you think you'll come here and have a drink and *relax* it's not that place. Want some coffee? No go. But they sell Kava and kratom, and are the only place in town as far as I know. It's not a bad place, but not some place that Im ever truly comfortable drinking my Kratom. A lot of Kava place are a lot like cafes. This one is not. Super loud music, part atmosphere. Can't read a book here. read more

Great Kava & Kratom! A nice place to hangout and study that is close to campus. Bartenders are incredibly nice and took the time to explain where Kava and Kratom come from. Overall a laid-back and fun environment. read more

this place is so fire, i spend every minute of every day wishing i was here. sometimes, i'll be asleep dreaming of having a shell of kava only to find myself waking up in tears that it isn't the reality before me. if i could give this place more than 5 stars i would, but i simply can't, which is unfortunate. i even made an account just to post this. i hope if you see this review, that the passion i have for this place comes through text. thank you for reading. read more

Expertly crafted Kava Leaf and relaxing atmosphere and great bartender. My friend and I played connect four and had the Sweet Tea Leaf. Tasted just like sweet tea! Great place to come and relax after a stressful day at school, work, or a breakup. read more

We had a nice time while stopping by, but I turned out to be very allergic to the product and was sick all night long. Definitely took the fun out of things! Boyfriend didn't feel anything from it. I did until I got sick. Other people I've talked to have had similar reactions, so beware! Guy who served us was nice and they have specials. I would just try a little bit and wait to see if you have a reaction before going all in. read more

The owner was super nice and friendly. But I ended up spending $30 on kava(which by the way tastes disgusting) and felt no effect. My friend felt a but of a buzz from it though so maybe it was just me? It's worth exploring as an alternative to drinking, but I'm not sure if it's my thing. read more

I almost didn't go after reading the reviews here, but now I'm glad I did. I want to leave my own review to provide another perspective. Some background: I've been drinking kava for about 5 years, have tried at least 6 different brands and about 15 strains/varieties of kava within those brands. Now on to the review. (1) The Kava: I didn't think to ask where they get their kava, but this is a mild, heady kava, the kind you drink to socialize with your friends rather than the kind you drink before going to bed. Kava is something of an acquired taste at the best of times (I tell people it tastes like dirt), but this is some of the better tasting kava out there. (2) The atmosphere: It was clean and well decorated in a minimalist style. The music, mostly songs from the 60s/70s, was too loud to be considered background music but not unbearably loud. I found myself wishing they would at least turn down the bass, which was cranked up to 11. The lighting was subdued and comfortable. (3) The Service: The bartender was polite, fast, and professional once I decided to get his attention, but if I had been waiting for him to notice I needed something instead of initiating myself it seemed like I would have been waiting a long time. I kind of like not being badgered, but I know some people prefer to feel waited on so subtract an additional star if that's you. (4) Price/menu: One kava was $4, a 'double' was $8, and you could pay more to get a giant bowl at once. They also had herbal teas, which is nice if you want to bring anyone who's not sold on kava. While I probably could have drank more kava, I noticed good effects after two doubles and decided to stop there. If you're new, I suggest getting a single every 15-20 minutes until you've had 3-4 servings. I'm subtracting a star because they sell kratom, an addictive herbal painkiller that isn't regulated by the government but hasn't been approved for human consumption. My opinion is that kratom should only be used by people with chronic pain conditions and not recreationaly. It bears mentioning that kava is an entirely different plant that is not addictive at all and can legally be sold for human consumption, so if you stick to kava and don't order any kratom then you will be fine. (5) Overall: I liked it and would like to go back again if I'm ever in the area. If I lived in Talahassee I would mostly stick to preparing my own kava to save money the same way I do with coffee, but it was a fun experience and Tallahassites are lucky to have this place locally. read more

My girlfriend & I have been to this place a few times & honestly, we really like it. We went when they first opened & have been a few more times recently. The first time we went, the bartender/owner Jamie was super nice & amazingly friendly. He proceeded to tell us all about kava & gave me some studies on kava & kratom that I could take home to read about because I'm very interested in that kind of stuff. First of all, people need to know that Kava has a reverse tolerance effect, it's not like alcohol where you get really drunk your first time & need to build a tolerance, it's the opposite. You may not even feel it your first time, though my girlfriend, my other friend & I all did, so it is understandable that some people feel ripped off the first time that they go, but just give it a chance. What the other reviewers have said is true, the lights & atmosphere were too bright & uninviting, however that has all changed! More recently we have been a few times for Kava & Kratom as well & have liked the place a lot more! The lights were changed out for dimmer ones so the whole place is a lot more inviting, they also added a bunch of cool games & things to do which is nice. The place still has a way to go, but I'm sure that they will get there. Overall, I'd say that 4/5 stars is fair & I'll definitely be going back & recommending this place. read more

Awesome Kava. James is awesome and the place has free games, great ambiance and is open late. A must visit if in tallahassee

All the staff here is great, it's an awesome place to hangout and meet new people. You can play pool or jam out. Also Reese the new bartender is pretty dope. read more

It really comes down to the simple fact that the "strongest" version of kava they carried was ridiculously priced, and hardly potent. If you get anything besides the "strongest", then you are getting two day old, watered down, recycled murky kava water. Also, it seemed like the bartender was missing out on pretty big chunks of information regarding this entheobotanical, such as contraindications, but that doesn't seem to matter much as the product is hardly active anyway. Super excited to hear about this, but super disappointed to waste money on it. If the prices were cut in half, and the product was doubled up in potency, I would definitely visit again. But until then, I'd rather order kava from online and make it at home. At least it DEFINITELY had effects when I've gone that route. read more

Great service, everyone was really nice and helpful. It was a lot cheaper than I expected, too. The atmosphere was really chill, and they played great music. Will definitely be back soon! read more

Stumbled upon this place after eating at Maple Street. What a find! We got there around 11:30, and one of the co owners talked to us the whole time about the different types of drinks, and was super knowledgeable. Very friendly. Awesome vibes, and they're open til 2 a.m. Definitely coming back at night. **also they've grown a lot over the past few months, so older reviews might not be as accurate. AWESOME PLACE. read more

I honestly love coming to this place! It's a super chill place to hang with your homies and have a good time. The bartender Ryan is also super great! read more

Kavakaze is a waste of your time, energy, and money. The kava is not effective. The atmosphere is equivalent to a doctors waiting room. And lastly the owner, James, is a cocky, condescending, jerk. He is pompous and arrogant to his customers, and even worse he is terrible to his employees. Unfortunately this is the only kava bar in Tallahassee, but it's not even really kava. read more

Probably one of the most unwelcoming bars i've ever been to. I've been here twice and each time the bartender was inattentive and very rude. These people really need a lesson in friendliness and customer service. read more

Great atmosphere. The reviews on here are old and things have improved drastically. Dark inside with black lights. Beyond friendly staff willing to explain anything about their kava/kratom. Both of these are the bees knees. Price is a little high which is really the only con about this place. If you have never had kava or kratom and are looking for a place to investigate it or ingest it, this is the place. read more

I can vouch and say the kava here is actually quite high quality, as the bar claims, and goes for a good price too. The drinks don't taste like a martini or anything but the contents make up for it in my opinion. I actually think the single shots have a pleasant taste to them and create a certain sensation on my tongue when I sip them that is its own thing entirely. I find that slowly sipping a single shot, especially after a stressful day, is a great way to relax. I then tried ordering a stronger drink containing much much more than what was in the single shot, and I was very satisfied, at some times it felt overwhelming so I'm going to try ordering one with a little bit less kava next time to find a sweet spot for me. I think the crowd that goes here is really unique, diverse, and interesting. Although the management may have its flaws, I really do think they put their heart into this place and it shows. read more

I have been to Kavakaze twice because I really enjoy the effects the kava has on me. It tastes absolutely horrible and there is nothing you can do to make it taste better. James (the owner) heard my friend and I talking about how bad it tastes and in a very annoyed tone he said, "wow thanks." He took everything very seriously and kind of made it seem like we were an inconvenience for being there. The bartender I had the first time was incredibly passive aggressive and gave poor service. Obviously their service isn't an important factor to them but every time I go in it has been only 2-5 other people. It doesn't surprise me why they don't have a lot of customers. As a server, I can say that I would never speak to my customers the way the owner and his employees have spoken to me and my friends. A customer should never feel this uncomfortable. If the service wasn't so awful I would actually enjoy coming here. read more