I've been here twice. Because it's in a great location, this would be THE place for Kava if the music were more ambient. It's cozy--and that means it's too small for a live band with amplifiers. Since it's so small, it's always crowded, so maybe they don't need the rest of our business anyway. It's crazy loud (but it's not a dance venue). We have to go outside to really talk and even then we have to pay really close attention or read lips. In a place where one goes for a soothing experience to re-center, why do we need loud music vibrating through our bones? There are already so many other places for that. Such a high volume isn't very relaxing, and it actually keeps you on edge! It's such a pity, really. Everyone is friendly there, the drinks are top-notch, and the atmosphere is otherwise amazing. Maybe somebody there will read this and give ambient music a try-- at least one night per week, come on, give us a break. Call it Smooth Brew Sunday with smooth jazz or something. I'll say it: There's a lot of pressure these days to "be fine" with loud music and just accept it as a given. That needs to change. Not only is it bad for those tiny fibers in our ears that we can't get back once their destroyed (There's no lasik surgery for the ears!) but noise pollution is also bad for our brains and skeletons. But Kava solves everything else, so at least there's that! :) read more

First off, I hail from what I consider the kava capital of the States, Tampa Bay so this review may feel skewed to some. Upon arrival in town an acquaintance told me about this place. Of course, I decided to stop in and see what the hype was about. Accessing the establishment is easy , as it's on a street corner. Upon walking up you will notice a nice outdoor seating area. Perfect for those with dogs. Inside, is small, yet a semi cozy vibe. I was here twice. Both times I order a yellow Kratom and the second time I also order kava "shells". The Kratom is weak. I'm not sure why this is. The portion is small (for a double) therefore making it the most expensive Kratom I have ever purchased from a kava bar anywhere in the country. The kava, which is not my go to, was excellent. I caught a special so the price was extremely reasonable. 3 stars for the lackluster Kratom. 4 stars for the vibe and kava. Overall, 4 stars. read more

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Definitely a place I can come by and reset, refocus and regenerate. I was keeping this one to myself but figured I should share my gem with the rest of you. Brittney is really good as making the drinks custom what you're looking for, very knowledgeable as well. read more

Unique and different atmosphere if you're taking a break from alcohol or don't drink. Fun date night and slept like a baby that night. First timer and will be back! read more

Lacuna - Java drink from the specialty drink menu! - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Maybe you're here because you actually know what Kava is. Maybe you're here because you're a college kid and this is the only vice left the under 21 crowd can still legally enjoy. Or maybe you're here because you want the thrill of a little drug experimentation but with a product guaranteed to be safe and natural. I won't ask questions, but whatever brings you here, you won't regret it! Lacuna serves up these Polynesian plants in the form of tasty mocktails. Kava is supposed to be a calming alternative to alcohol. They call it "Nature's Xanax", and it numbs your mouth while winding you down. I don't notice much of a difference but I like the initial sensation and trying it with others for the first time is a lot of fun. Personally I find the Kratom to be a *lot* more enjoyable. There are different blends with different intended effects--you can select white kratom for energy, yellow for focus, and more. You can order a double and mix these varieties--which I always do--to get the most out of it. I find it to be a fun and uplifting caffeine alternative that's perfect to drink before going out for a long evening on the Row. While you're here, you can indulge in other treats like CBD joints and quinoa bowls. And if you visit at night, there's usually a DJ! Bring a small group and your sense of adventure--this place sure is worth it. read more

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE This place! Awesome vibes, chill atmosphere and excellent Kava Tenders! Jamie has taken care of me the past few visits. She is always knowledgeable and patient with my curious questions! I'm obsessed with the Strawberry Bliss with White Kratom and a teensy splash of Ginger Juice! Definitely stop in and give this place a chance to enhance your life! Thanks Jamie! read more

Lacuna - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Brand spanking new Kava bar here in AZ! I always love visiting kava bars, there's always such a relaxed vibe and everyone is super friendly. Same at this location too. They're giving out free samples outside to introduce people to what it is, since it's the first kava bar in all of Arizona. So grateful I was visiting at this time to try it out ! Ive had kava a few times before from my random travels and have always loved it, so I'll always stop by if I see one in the area. This location is unique tho in that they have some conjured drinks of kava that mask the taste. Check out the menu I took a pic of. I tried the Brown Dog, which was a chocolate drink, that wasn't too overly cocoa flavored, just enough to mask the kava dirt taste slightly. Oh for those that don't know, kava is an ancient ceremonial drink from the South Pacific Islands, made from a plant. Traditionally and plain, it tastes like drinking dirt, but in a good way haha. Forreals I love it, and it makes me feel more connected to the earth. It gives you a mild numbing feeling in your mouth and makes you super relaxed, giving you a natural high. This kava bar also brews kratom tea, which was new to me ! So I sampled that today. It gives a mild stimulating high feeling in your head . I highly recommend you stop by, especially if you're new to kava & kratom. The staff here will take the time to explain everything to you and give you samples! They also have free WiFi. And it's a very large store front with an actual bar area and also couches for seating. Lots of open space. Come and hang out read more

Lacuna - Menu 3/30/19 - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Love this place, drinks are tasty and always has the best chill vibes. Love that you can take it Togo as well. Kavatenders are always super knowledgeable and sweet! Britney is the best :) read more

I had the Love Bug and would definitely get it again! It was a delicious, cool, non-alcoholic drink. I didn't notice any effect, but definitely enjoyed it. Lacuna is a very inclusive establishment, but not everyone who came inside has the same hygiene standards, and one such gentleman had his poor filthy dog with him on a makeshift leash. Not everyone is comfortable with that level of inclusivity, and I hope paying customers don't get scared away since they make such delicious NA drinks! read more

4 stars because the place was interesting and people were friendly. I want to give it 5 stars but the drinks were pricey and I only took a few sips and didn't finish it. Also, they only accept cash so be prepared. It was a first time experience which I appreciate the owner introducing Kava and Krona to Phoenix (Sedona soon). However, it is not something I would drink daily but I would recommend everyone to try once. My drink was medium sized and cost $17 with the tip. I only took a few sips, which the drink was not bad at all but the paper cup started to get soggy and I started to taste paper and bitterness. Overall: yes, try it. Expect to bring cash and expect to pay at least $15 for 1 drink. read more

Lacuna - My medium sized drink that cost me $17 *cries* - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Amazing spot. Perfect energy. Great Monday night conscious talks. Come check it out!! read more

Immaculate vibes! 10/10 love this place! Great people, great drinks, couldn't recommend this place more!

The coolest spot I didn't even know I needed! My friend suggested we meet here while we visit Phoenix, and WOW it did not disappoint. Our server made incredible suggestions on what to order (everything looked so good, we needed guidance lol). I ended up getting the creamy Tuned-In Taro with Vanuatu Tea a splash of lavender (was looking for more of a chill vibe), while my friend built her own mocktail with the Tongan Tea, limeade base, and cucumber flavor (was looking for more of an upbeat vibe). Both drinks were INCREDIBLE! My friend ended up loving my mocktail so much that she ordered another one for herself after finishing her drink. The vibes in here are IMMACULATE. From the perfect lighting, to the dope DJ, to the coloring books that kept me entertained while waiting for my friends arrival - this place has it all. Be sure to make this your next stop for a brilliant mocktail break in your day, or maybe a really connected date with a friend or otherwise! read more

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As someone who once considered Lacuna one of my favorite spots in Phoenix, I am disappointed to have learned how ownership has not only recently, but historically, treated their staff. I personally attended Sedona's grand opening. Before that, I frequented Phoenix's location weekly. And before I moved away from PHX, I had my going away party at Lacuna, not even two months ago. As much as it's hard to walk away from a place I have so many memories with, and cherished deeply... I won't be coming back. I won't recommend this place to friends anymore. I'm not proud of the fact that I've supported a place that has treated its employees as if they're disposable, incapable, or unworthy of respect. Staff and management has always been phenomenal, and some of the best customer service I've ever had. However, ownership fails to recognize what they have and handles difficult situations by taking it out on staff, disrespecting them, and behaving extremely unprofessionally. A complete shame when it comes down to it because some of the best memories I have from my time living in Phoenix, happened at Lacuna. I am in full support of every single staff member who walked out on their own jobs yesterday, in protest of their treatment. I am so proud of them for sticking up for themselves, and their coworkers. As a customer, I feel betrayed by the facade. I'm not willing to stay silent when I find out that a business that seemingly prides itself on being a safe, progressive place, turns around and treats their staff members poorly behind its customers' backs. It's NOT okay. Your customers don't appreciate it. And the people who are thinking about going here, deserve to know what they're supporting... read more

Do yourself a favor and give this a try! Great little place for relaxing without the guilt of alcohol. The vibe is wonderful and Jamie made the whole process simple and straightforward. 5 stars for sure! read more

I root for this bar. Great vibes & great ppl work here. Olivia & Adriana make the difference. I'll be back again.

Unique spot that I definitely would stop by again. We knew nothing about Kava but thanks to the attentive, friendly and patient employees we learned a little. Overall the atmosphere was super chill, live music was playing but wasn't loud. We sat on a comfy couch and enjoyed our yummy calming drinks. read more

Lacuna - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Amazing people and atmosphere... Brenen is dope as well as Dylan I tried the berry bliss and it was delicious read more

Put in this the category of taking a shot in the dark. The Phoenix New Times included this place in their Best of 2019 list and its just a stone's throw from my apartment so I felt obligated to at least try it out. I'm quite certain I'm not the target demographic for the Kava/Kratom trend, but ever the Downtown enthusiast I am, I stepped into this place completely ignorant of how this works. I left only slightly less ignorant, but I'll give you the rundown and you decide whether to make a go here. I came to Lacuna after dinner on a Friday evening in search of what I've at least heard is a refreshingly new concept. Look for Lacuna Kava Bar on the southeast corner of 3rd Street and Garfield. Located on the backside of an aging apartment complex, Lacuna sort of has the feel of a tiki bar, but perhaps a more clubby version of it. You've got the bar up front with seating for about a dozen with tropical decor and even tropical videos playing on the monitors behind the bar. But you've also got vinyl and leather couch seating around the interior perimeter that can seat probably another dozen more (and the walls are adorned with artwork for good measure). As confused as I was from the get go, Crissy made me feel right at home from the moment I walked in the door. As this was my first time I was given two small free samples. One of Kava (basically a Polynesian pepper plant extract) and one of Kratom (a tropical evergreen plant extract). Crissy gave me a very thorough run down of all the wonderful things these plants can do for humans and how native tribes and residents where these plants are grown have been using them for thousands of years (honestly I should've just read up on their website beforehand). Anyways, after trying the sample Kava and Kratom I decided I'd order a Kratom cocktail for my first deep dive. I went with the State 48, because of course. The Kratom is mixed with prickly pear lemonade, ice, topped with a pineapple slice and a berry sugar rim. I chose their "red" Kratom which is supposed to engender relaxing, soothing effects on my body. Total cost including tax came to $11. I don't know that I feel anymore relaxed now than I did when I entered, but the drink was good. Refreshing, with an herbal and slightly earthy tone, mellowed by the sweetness of the fruit additions. The Phoenix New Times called this place the best place to have a hippie drink in the valley. And I have to say that has merit. The Downtown arts and college crowds seems to love this place, and I will absolutely confirm that the staff at Lacuna is as friendly, energetic, and passionate about their product and their business as everyone says. Crissy (bless her heart) tried very hard to make sure I enjoyed my first experience here and took great pains to explain every aspect of the business to me. If nothing else, Lacuna is certainly a unique find in Downtown. And their customer service is top of the line. The concept may ring hollow for some, but its certainly worth paying at least one visit to let Crissy and the rest of the staff do their best to introduce you to something wildly different. read more

Love the new location, great indoor and outdoor seating options. Jamie was super helpful!

0/10 recommend supporting this kava bar. They will try to nickle and dime you for everything. I have now had multiple experiences where I specifically ask for lemon juice and kratom (very common drink). The kavatenders have used limeade instead and up-charged me the $2 for the limeade. On one occasion they even lied multiple times reiterating it was lemon juice until the 4th time they admitted it wasn't. This is a terrible establishment from a pricing and service perspective. Unfortunately, it seems like they only care about increasing prices instead of establishing a loyal customer base. A standard drink is double the price compared to some of the other kava bars in the phx area. read more

Great music, great energy, great service! Favorite kava/kratom bar in town. Wish there were more locations in Scottsdale

I had no idea what to expect when I came here with my friend and I was pleasantly surprised. Jess and the rest of the staff is super friendly and welcoming and SO KNOWLEDGEABLE about their menu. Their menu is super confusing if you don't have a guide but lucky for you, they can answer any question you have. The new location is open and fun. I also LOVED that they had social games and a little library! Definitely a fun place to visit and you will learn something new every time! read more

Lacuna - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

By far the best service in Downtown Pheonix!! If you are from the area or not, this place is a must-stop (and then keep coming back!) 15 out of 10 Recommended!! Every employee is consistently attentive and very informative in every question you have whether it is busy or not. There are many options and ways to customize your drink! You can tell that every recipe is careful crafted to meet anyone's taste. This type of small business is what makes me keep coming back, I constantly talk about Kava and Kratom with friends and family and have brought so many to see this marvelous bar. Any stress that I may have throughout my day is instantly vanquished the moment I step in the door. The vibe of this place is uplifting and refreshing and relaxing, a place with lots of laughing and smiling faces, where you want to go to hang out with a friend or hang out and make new friends. Overall this is an impressive business filled with incredible people, don't miss out!! BULA! read more

Lacuna - coconut cup (brown dog kava) - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This was a friend date but still super fun! The bar has this very relaxing and cozy atmosphere. I love the couch set up that they have! It makes for a great place for gossip sessions and catching up! There's seats at the bar too of course. So I stepped in and the staff was immediately super sweet and willing to educate you on kava and kratom. When I heard "nature's adderall" and "nature's Xanax" I was intrigued! I went for the Kratom, I'm obsessed with mango juice so I picked the Citrus Funk. I didn't feel the euphoric feeling at first so I got another one and then it hit! It was super light of a taste. I could definitely party on this tea. I wish the music would have been upbeat to match my mood but it was still lovely. I was happy and I definitely believe people when they say it's near impossible to be annoyed! I love how I didn't feel impaired like alcohol. Definitely telling all my friends! read more

Lacuna - 16 oz CITRUS FUNK - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Been wanting to try a kava bar for awhile. Place is very hip. The barista was very nice and informative. If kava is your thing I'd highly recommend. read more

Really sweet energetic bartender makes me happy I stopped by, and that was even before I started driving this tasty tasty drink!

Amazing service, fun atmosphere and ambiance... Good kava drinks and love the coconut cocktails:) read more

Love coming to the Lacuna Phx!! Marina & Hannah are great kavatenders definitely recommend! read more

Lacuna - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

What a great concept and vibe! Went on Saturday to enjoy the venders and the dj! Must try! Thank you Natalie and Ariana!

Had a great experience here. The bar tender, Maya, was not only knowledgeable but friendly and helpful with my daughter's and my selections as first timers. The vibe is really chill. I will definitely be back and even use the location as a work spot in the middle of the day. read more

Caution: Your tongue might become pleasantly numb. Never tried kava tea before, the owner was gracious enough to give us a crash course. Tried the kavachata (horchata with kava) and the Thai sunset (Thai tea but with added bitterness). Has a wide variety of house made kava mocktails, has kratom drinks as well. The vibe is great. Everyone is willing to strike up a conversation. For those more introverted it was great alternative of a clubby atmosphere. Definitely recommend. read more

Lacuna - Kavachata - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Ariana and Jess are amazing. Ariana managed my questions and requests with ease and the vibe here is always amazing. If you're in the area, swing by and grab a drink. read more

Very kind and helpful kavatenders. Patient and knowledgeable with newcomers. Very welcoming altogether! Jess is a rockstar and so very kind! read more

Lacuna - Kratom tsunami - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great places to learn more about Kava and its benefits to the body! Drinks are tasty and the 'kavatenders,' as they are called, are super knowledgeable! read more

Discover the new place in Phoenix to work in a creative environment. The Kava bar has enjoyable kava and kratom drinks that refresh you, relax you, or energize you based on what you are wanting. The atmosphere is enjoyable and there are even some games available to play if you wanted to bring the kid(s). Can't wait for my next trip to Phoenix to visit the Lacuna Kava bar again. PS, Krissy was a friendly Kavatender. read more

Lacuna - Wi-Fi works great for business on the go. Great environment to work and be creative. - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Grace was so awesome. So hospitable!! Very kind. Love the vibe, love the drinks. Super tasteful all around! FEEL GREAT! read more

Lacuna - You can tell... nothing left lol - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

We love Lacuna! Such a fun, relaxed vibe. There's a sizeable inclusive menu, something on there for everyone. The staff is honestly so great and always keeps it fun; the patio is also a favorite. Don't get overwhelmed by the menu; ask a kava tender. Corrin was super amazing and accommodating when it came to picking a drink. She was patient (which I appreciated) and also knowledgeable about the menu. My favorite is the Dragonfly, and also the monsoon! Ask Corrin about the CBD blunts! read more

Lacuna - Having a great time at Lacuna! - Lounges Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Ariana is amazing! As a first time customer, she was so welcoming and explained the menu and made the experience fun! A really good vibe, definitely coming back! read more

Fun atmosphere on a Friday night. Had one or two 'questionable' patrons, but that's a bar for ya right?! Nice but not crazy impressive atmosphere. Staff was pleasant and explained the drinks well. Unfortunately, I discovered I have an allergy to Kava, so won't be heading back there; however, my guy liked it. read more