Not Your Average Gainesville Bar: Kava Breaks Into the Drinking Scene

Gainesville has another bar option for those looking for a new social outing, and it comes without the dreaded hangover.

Mai Kai Kava Bar serves Kava, a drink made from a plant originating in the Western Pacific. Kava is characterized by drinkers to have relaxing and medicinal uses. Heather Casey, one of the owners of the bar, invites people to come to the bar, which she likes to call a “Zen den.”  

“I try to share as much info as I can with [customers] when they come in,” said Casey, who has been drinking Kava for six years. “I explain to them about its past and what it does for you,” she added.

Kava, also known as Kava Kava and Piper Methysticum, has been consumed for thousands of years, but Kava bars in America have only recently been popping up over the last few years.

A Kava drink is prepared by soaking the plant’s root in water, resulting in a brown liquid after filtering out the root. Mai Kai also offers had crafted Kava made with flavors like dreamsickle called “The Gator,” and chocolate and peanut butter, known as “Swamp Kava.”

Casey emphasizes that the bar is welcoming for anyone looking for a place to relax with friends.

“We have a mix of people; all walks of life come in through the door,” said Casey.

Many students come to drink Kava to take a break and find some clarity, as it’s often used to treat anxiety and stress. The drink gives a relaxed and happy feeling, a great alternative to alcohol that won’t mess with mental clarity. When sharing drinks, especially with new customers, everyone yells “bula,” a Fijian word for “life,” to greet and welcome first-timers. 

When visiting the University of Florida recently, Rachel Roseman, a Kava drinker from Palm Beach County, decided to stop by Mai Kai while in town.

“I’ve never seen so many yummy, fun flavors,” said Roseman, adding that “the owners even took the time to sit down and welcome us!”

The Kava bar also strives to be part of the local community, hosting several events throughout the week. Every Monday, anyone is welcome for open mic night, where singing, poetry or any talent is welcome. They also offer painting and free flow art sessions where the community is invited to express themselves through the art they create. Many art students also come in to complete projects.

The Mai Kai Kava Bar is for adults 18 and up, but there is no age limit on drinking Kava.

“It’s really for anybody,” said Casey.

Located: 17 W University Ave, Gainesville, Fla.

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