Island Root Kava Bar

Reviews & Tips

• 0

  As a multiple year Kava/Awa drinker, including experience during my residence in Hawaii, I decided to check out Island Root Kava Bar in downtown Melbourne, FL.  The atmosphere is peaceful and pleasant, and the Kava-tender was friendly enough.  Their basic $5 shell of Vanuatu Kava seemed very pure, and I enjoyed a pleasant, elated but subtle Kava buzz. :)  On my second visit to Island Root, I tried the $10 "Ed shell" which is supposedly a much stronger dose of Kavalactones.  I asked how it is made stronger, and the guy working explained that it was the regular straining process but with more Kava extract added.  I am curious if there is something else being added to this particular item on their menu.  The way it hit me hard like some sort of pharmaceutical side effect, then totally fading out, and finally leaving me with an energy crash and major headache is not concurrent with any other Kava experience that I have ever experienced before.  Something else I found very questionable, is that one of my acquaintances tried this "Ed shell" as their first time ever drinking Kava, and they had the same reaction that I did.  I find this strange, because anyone who knows anything about Kava, knows that it has a reverse tolerance, and it takes some time for the body to acquire the enzymes to break down the Kavalactones  to make it usable for the body.  Most people don't feel very much from their first few experiences... I am wondering if Kratom or something is being used in their "Ed shell."  Maybe harsh, but I am just sharing my experience and my opinion on it.  Although I would be curious to know if anyone else had a similar experience here.  As I mentioned, I know Kava well, and I found this reaction a little strange.  Other than that one weird thing, Island Root Kava Bar is not a bad place to hang out from time to time to enjoy a regular Vanuatu shell.

  Review Source:

  Posted on 07.06.13 Star S.

  • Report
• 0

  Went here to try Kava for the first time as I was traveling from out of town, did not want to drink and drive (tons of police in Melbourne!), and have always wanted to try Kava.
  
  The "bartender" here was very friendly and informative for my first Kava experience.  He wanted to make sure I understood the history of the product and that he was serving me something suited to my tastes.   It is a social drink that is a fun experience to share with others and they will always have some Kava with you so you don't drink alone.  Kava Sutra is also a non-rushed establishment and I got the sense you are free to linger here as long as you want to savor the promised Kava induced relaxation.
  
  That said, this was my first time trying Kava and I didn't notice any obvious effect after drinking 3 "shells."   My mouth got a little numb but that was short lived.   If I had the time to stay longer, the bartender promised that they have stronger versions (with kava concentrate added) that would surely have an effect.
  
  I liked it and will go back, although I'm not sure I've really drank the "kool aid" yet on the promised effects of Kava.  It's fun though and I enjoyed the newbie experience.

  Review Source:

  Posted on 11.14.12 TJ B.

  • Report
• 0

  My father actually introduced me to this bar. The feeling is very relaxed and an "all are welcome" type of vibe. Wednesdays are Ladies Drink Free, which is fantastic for everyone. The staff is knowledgeable about Kava and have no problem adjusting the strength of the shot based on your experience. It can be a bit of a grainy type of taste (since you are drinking a smashed up root), but there are different varieties and flavored combinations (such as fruit punch). You will leave feeling relaxed and "zin" after visiting Kavasutra.

  Review Source:

  Posted on 07.07.12 Brandi G.

  • Report
• 0

  Literally this lounge is unlike anything I ever seen before. It's a kava bar so for those who are tired of alcohol can come here to enjoy a bowl of kava juice. In case you are wondering what Kava is it's root from the Pacific used to make a natural tea which is used to consume to relax and sedate. For about $5 a bowl you can enjoy a non savory tasting drink that gives you a feel good vibe. They try to flavor the drink with fruit flavors but it just doesn't work but regardless drinking a kava is worth the effect. Kava Sutra lounge is really chill and they are always playing music along with tvs showing surfing. Must recommended for those mellow nights.

  Review Source:

  Posted on 01.02.12 Daya A.

  • Report