What Is Kava?

Curious about kava but not sure what it actually is? You're in exactly the right place. At Elixir Lounge — Old Town Spring's alcohol-free tiki lounge and kava bar — we walk first-timers through it every single day. Here's everything you want to know before your first visit.

What is kava?

Kava is a plant native to the islands of the South Pacific — Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and beyond. For centuries, the root of the kava plant has been prepared into a traditional beverage and shared at social gatherings and ceremonies across Polynesia. It's a plant with deep cultural roots, and the drink is still made much the way it always has been: the root is ground, strained with water, and served — often in a coconut shell.

What is a kava bar?

A kava bar is a social, alcohol-free gathering place built around kava and other botanical drinks — think of it as a coffee shop and a neighborhood bar rolled into one, minus the alcohol. People come to meet friends, catch an event, work remotely, or simply hang out. At Elixir Lounge, that means kava shells, tiki-style mocktails, botanical elixirs, coffee, and tea, served in a tropical, welcoming space with something happening almost every night.

Is kava alcoholic?

No — kava is completely alcohol-free, and so is everything we serve at Elixir Lounge. That's the whole idea: a genuine night-out atmosphere without alcohol and without the hangover. It's why kava bars have become a favorite for the sober-curious, designated drivers, and anyone who just wants a great social spot that isn't centered on drinking.

How old do you have to be to go to a kava bar?

At Elixir Lounge you must be 18 or older to be served kava or botanical elixirs. Everyone 18+ is welcome — first-timers most of all.

What does kava taste like?

Honestly? Traditional kava is an acquired taste — earthy and a little bitter, the way the islands have enjoyed it for generations. Good news: you don't have to start there. Most first-timers order one of our flavored kava drinks or tiki mocktails, where the kava is blended into something tropical and easy to sip — think piña colada, mojito, and other island-inspired favorites. Our staff will happily help you find the right first drink.

What to expect your first time at Elixir Lounge

• Just walk in. No membership, no reservation needed. Dogs welcome, kids welcome, first-timers absolutely welcome.
• Ask us anything. Our team knows every drink on the menu and loves introducing people to kava for the first time.
• Stay for the vibe. Karaoke, trivia, drag bingo, open mic, paint & sip, live music — check our Events page for what's on tonight.
• Find us: 206 Main St, Old Town Spring, TX 77373.

Ready to try it? See the full menu » or find us in Old Town Spring »

Frequently Asked Questions

What is kava? Kava is a plant from the South Pacific whose root has been prepared into a traditional social beverage for centuries.

What is a kava bar? An alcohol-free social gathering place built around kava and botanical drinks — like a cross between a coffee shop and a neighborhood bar, without the alcohol.

Is kava alcoholic? No. Kava and everything served at Elixir Lounge is 100% alcohol-free.

How old do you have to be to drink kava? You must be 18 or older to be served kava or botanical elixirs at Elixir Lounge.

What does kava taste like? Traditional kava is earthy and slightly bitter; most first-timers prefer our flavored kava drinks and tiki mocktails, which are tropical and easy to sip.

Where is Elixir Lounge? 206 Main St, Old Town Spring, TX 77373 — open 7 days a week.

Kava and botanical beverages are intended for adults 18 years of age or older. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Everyone's body is different — avoid kava if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have liver concerns, and consult your healthcare provider with any questions.