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    Kava Bar

    4.5 (89 reviews)
    InexpensiveLounges, Tea Rooms
    Closed Closed

    Kava Bar Photos

    Business Info

    KAVA BAR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Divey
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Kava Bar

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    This place is great. Relaxed atmosphere, with friendly clientele. Every time I go in there people smile and say hello. It's like a whole pub full of friendly respectful folks that aren't drunk assholes.

    Yeah, Bula! Lovely kava in a lovely atmosphere. Comfy chairs and attentive host. $20 size shown, take home what you don't finish.
    Marcia S.

    Wonderful service and a calm ambiance. $15, $20, and $25 sizes available. Take home what you don't finish.

    its kava. it's why you're here
    Kirk J.

    This is a bar, named Kava Bar, which serves Kava. If you like Kava, or have never heard of it, you should go to the bar that serves Kava named Kava Bar. If you dislike Kava, uh, I've got bad news for you about the Kava Bar... Anyways, most people presumably fall in the latter category - Kava is a root tea from the Pacific Islands. The specific restaurant is Fijian, which you can tell from the smiling portrait of former general turned Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama (very interesting person, but sadly not relevant to Yelp reviewing). Kava tastes like what you'd expect a root tea to taste like (bitter, earthy, etc.) However, it's a delightful drink. I can only describe it as having the positive effects of beer (relaxation) without all the negative impacts (of which there are innumerous). Also numbs your tongue. The actual Kava was fairly high quality, which means it's a great way to try out Kava, since Kava is apparently something that's pretty easy to mess up when you try to make it yourself (pretty jarring when it happens - I drank frat bro-brewed Kava once in college, which went as badly as you'd expect). The ambience of the bar was great, much more of a comfortable lounge (very welcoming to an older clientele) than one of those uncomfortable, poorly lit, overly loud music hosting, American style bars where regrettable acts take place in. Service also great, the hosts were very nice and helpful. Also, the prices are very affordable. You can get a small bowl for $15, a medium bowl for $20, or a large bowl for $25. They're all pretty large, because Kava drinking is clearly meant to be a communal act. Bring your friends! Great place to hang out! Will definitely be back if I visit the Bay Area again.

    small size
    Michelle V.

    Came here late night on Saturday, around 9 PM. There were two groups of people sitting and relaxing. The store was pretty quiet and dark. There is a lot of island decorations and snacks by the front counter. The Olympics were playing, and the ambiance was very calm. The shop owner was super friendly and approachable. He gave us directions on how to drink and serve the kava. It was our first time trying it, so we got the small size for two people. Remember to swirl the liquid around! I was nervous to try it because of the reviews of people saying it tasted like dirt, but it just kind of tasted like a powdery drink, neutral and herbal. I am a fan of Chinese herbal drinks, so this was a bit different but it wasn't too weird. My throat immediately went numb after my first cup. We felt a little loopy and just sat around until a bit before closing. We saw the people next to us play cards, but I'm not sure if it's provided. I enjoyed my experience here and would come back with more people!

    Kava root

    We own Kava Sol in Ohio and made Kava Bar our literal first stop luggage in hand when we got off the plane in San Fran. We were lovingly greeted by the owner and he showed us his production and operation area where he gets root straight from Fiji and pounds it on site. Served in an authentic tanoa, it's strong and smooth kava. This is a very authentic and traditional kava bar - straight up kava only. Amazing authentic experience and so grateful we stopped! MUST TRY for experienced kava drinkers.

    Such a special place. The Kava is homemade and pounded in house. The atmosphere is so great offering drinks, snacks, and service to lounge while you drink. Definitely bring your friends here and hangout!

    Small
    Doug C.

    You can feel it after drinking 2 cups I was sleepy...blood pressure was down also. Very interesting.. tastes bitter like chinese medicine. Good for helping you get to sleep as an alternative to alcohol... You can buy the same kava powder they use to make the kava and the filter bag. There are videos on youtube showing how to make it.

    Great price for a good value and quality kava blend

    I have never been to a kava bar, as they don't have them in my home state. I didn't have any kava with me on my trip to SF, so I found the Kava Bar on Yelp, so I called and asked if they offered the powdered root for purchase, as well as the drinks. He did, so I headed that way. Rakesh (I presume the owner?) Was very helpful and friendly. They had all the items needed to make kava at home, and have me a complimentary drink in the traditional coconut cup. I would be here all the time, if I lived here! The kava was fresh and thickly condensed, which numbed my mouth and tongue quickly! Will be ordering my kava from him in the future!

    Kava.
    Libby J.

    Well, this was a unique experience. This place is such a hole in the wall in Downtown San Bruno (say what, there is such a thing). It is quite the dilapidated downtown...it has so much potential. Anyway, this is the real thing here. I can't say kava tastes like dirt. It might taste worse. I could only stomach two bowls based on palatability. Oh man and it makes your tongue feel numb. And apparently has almost any health benefit you could think of (look it up). You may not think you need any of the lollipops at the counter to go with the kava, but you will. So the owner here is super friendly and explained the process to us. They grind the root right there and everything. We went around 9:30 PM on a Tuesday, and there were a bunch of guys just shooting the breeze and playing pool. I can't describe the feeling post-kava. You just need to go try it for yourself.

    Seating area

    Real kava drinks served here in the traditional way, strong and robust, more concentrated than that in Hawaii. Chill atmosphere to vibe out or hang out with friends. The owner is from Fiji and is super chill and friendly. It's lucky we have a place like this in the bay area.

    Kava

    I had a wonderful experience here today! I'll soon be working on a ranch that grows Kava and the owner was delighted to hear that and gave me a ton of information about the root and how to prepare it myself. I came in stressed since I've been traveling and left feeling calm and at ease. I'll definitely be stopping by anytime I'm in San Bruno

    $10 (the smaller bowl)

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    8 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Amazing place! This is so far the only kava bar I've been to that does kava the traditional way. I love it!

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    9 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Could be cuter, but very authentic kava, hand made from the root! Super relaxing. Friendly owner. Affordable compared to alcohol.

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    10 years ago

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    10 years ago

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    7 years ago

    I love this place. The owner is always nice and even showed me how to make the kava at home.

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    6 years ago

    The owner is wonderful ! I am new to kava and he explained how he brews and the benefits ! Relaxing and welcoming environment.

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    10 years ago

    Fijian owner serving Authentic Kava, this place is friendly, laid back, and a good place to say kavaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh.

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    Page 2 of 3

    Ask the Community - Kava Bar

    Is the lava bar open on Sunday or not? Website says no. Google and Yelp say yes. Called but no answer?

    no..

    View All 2 Questions

    Review Highlights - Kava Bar

    Rakesh opened up this bar truly out of a love for kava and just spreading good vibes.

    Mentioned in 6 reviews

    Read more highlights

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    The Club SFO - Tzatziki with crudités

    The Club SFO

    3.8(320 reviews)
    1.7 mi

    This is a really large lounge-probably because it's the only Priority Pass lounge in Terminal 1…read more(it's an extra $15 pp to use the Alaska Lounge). I had to wait about 30 minutes to get in, and that was with people giving up and leaving the queue in front of me. Once I got checked in, I climbed the stairs to reveal an expansive lounge with the usual amenities - food, bar, washrooms, showers, private workrooms, and a small nook that was more conducive for computer work than the table and bar seating available. The food here is OK. The warm herb quinoa, brown rice, and mushroom pilaf had undercooked, crunchy quinoa, but the Italian white bean and Swiss chard it was paired with was delicious as the creamy beans contrasted well with the crunch of the chard. The soups available - chicken noodle soup and kale lentil soup - were pretty standard food service offerings. There were also fish tacos available, but they were pretty dry and unappealing. The real surprise was the peaches and cream dessert...advertised as vanilla custard with peach compote and topped with honey granola, I was taken aback when the custard was actually lemon flavored. Gross! It's a mixed bag when it comes to food, but there's a lot of variety offered so I'm sure you'll find something that you'll like.

    Quality/Quantity - A fairly large space. Many different seating areas…read more A full warm breakfast. But it was too early to drink, even for champagne. Breakfast is from 6am to 9am. Ambiance - Again, a fairly large space. Full bar. Open 7 days a week from 4:30am to 11:30pm. Plenty of clean restrooms. Kids' play area. Wifi available, I did not use it. Service - Self service. A full service bar which I did not use. Easy check in. Price - Free with our lounge pass. Otherwise $80 a person. Spa style showers available for $25. Owner Comment - Congrats on all your success. This is a much more relaxing way to travel.

    Photos
    The Club SFO - Light dinner and a chamomile tea before the long haul

    Light dinner and a chamomile tea before the long haul

    The Club SFO - Awesome cookies and an Aperol spritz

    Awesome cookies and an Aperol spritz

    The Club SFO - Buttery pretzel and cheese dip

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    Industry Pizza

    Industry Pizza

    4.7(86 reviews)
    2.0 mi
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    This has a more industrial vibe to it. You order first and they give you a number to take to any…read moreopen table you can find. We came here around 6ish pm on a Friday evening. It was busy and we were lucky to grab a seat in the corner. We ordered the pizza with the burrata on top, onion rings, and meatballs. The pizza was really good. Thin crust and crispy with no flop. The toppings and pizza sauce all worked well together to make for really good pizza. The onion rings are also really good. Very crispy and they gave a lot! The meatballs were really good. The tomato sauce on top was pretty savory and I enjoyed it. Overall I'd come back. I enjoyed the food and my time here.

    We came to Grand Ave for pho but just so happened to park right in front of Industry and the "Grand…read moreOpening" sign lured us in. Upon entering, I was confused- were we supposed to wait to be seated or do we choose our own table? No one made it clear, instead people were walking around us to serve tables. We walked up to the bar and the bartender let us know we can sit anywhere. We sat in a booth up top. The vibe looked semi-formal, but I guess it was super casual. Looking at the menu, the pizzas were all pretty unique! What caught my eye was the Mushroom pizza which had portobello mushroom, cheese, thyme + scallions, and a creamy garlic white sauce. I'm a sucker for mushrooms and my five year old who is picky af likes them too. She enjoyed her slice. I felt the pizza was delicious but could use some parm and pepper flakes. We also ordered the Brooklyn. Omg, my favorite pizza now surpassing Blue Line's White Pie on my list. Pepperoni, jalapenos, basil, ricotta (omg!), and hot honey. Salivating just thinking about it. Downed these slices with a pint and the rest was history. I do have to note that the booths and tables were full of crumbs. Understandable as it's a pizzeria, but it would be nice for someone to clean in between guests. The staff member behind the bar had served us our meal and drinks as well and he was very kind. We will definitely be coming back to Industry!

    Photos
    Industry Pizza
    Industry Pizza
    Industry Pizza

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    Flights 101 Club Lounge - Margarita flight

    Flights 101 Club Lounge

    3.7(100 reviews)
    2.8 mi
    $$

    The biggest highlight of this lounge is definitely the view. Unfortunately, it was already dark…read morewhen I checked into the hotel, so I wasn't able to enjoy it until the next morning, it was beautiful there. I'd definitely recommend visiting during the day or around sunset if possible. We grabbed seats at the bar and stayed until closing. The lounge was pretty busy and seemed a little understaffed, but the staff worked hard and were friendly throughout the night. The bartender was especially sweet and quickly figured out what kind of cocktails I liked after a couple of drinks. As for the drinks, their specialty cocktails were just okay for me. Not bad, but nothing particularly memorable. We ended up ordering classic cocktails instead. Overall, the views and service were the highlights of my visit. While I probably wouldn't come back specifically for the food or drinks, I did appreciate the staff's effort and hospitality.

    Loved the selection of cocktails and food at this small but mighty bar. It is located in the inside…read moreof the Marriott hotel with a beautiful view of the planes from SFO across the water. It is a great place to do some work or even catch up with a friend. The one downside is that parking is expensiveeee. We were there for 2 1/2 hours and paid $30. After all, it IS located at a hotel so wasn't that surprised but still taken aback. Would love to stop by again for a quick drink if I'm ever back in the area.

    Photos
    Flights 101 Club Lounge - Chips and guac

    Chips and guac

    Flights 101 Club Lounge - Calamari fritti

    Calamari fritti

    Flights 101 Club Lounge - Chicken sandwich

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    Lovey's Tea Shoppe - LOVEY'S TRAY 2 Tea Sandwiches; 1 Warm Scone with Clotted Cream & Jam, a Petit Four or Truffle plus your choice of Tea

    Lovey's Tea Shoppe

    4.4(346 reviews)
    4.7 mi
    $$

    Such a gem in Pacifica!!!! You can't miss it. It's right off the highway from Pacifica to Half Moon…read moreBay. I've been wanting to try and am grateful we did! Highly y recommending you book beforehand as the place fills up fast. Once you booked, you pre-pay for everything and just come and enjoy your tea on the day of. This place is so cute! It's located near Rockaway beach, a nice area in Pacifica. There are ample parkings in the back of the store. From outside vibes to the indoor decorations with all the tea sets and cute little tables and small mirrors and trinkets on the walls. It reminded me of Bridgeton and Victoria time. I could spend an entire afternoon here looking at all the cute tea set. Because we had our puppy with us, we opted for an outdoor seating which was equally as nice! Large white-and-yellow-striped umbrellas gave us some needed shades as it was a sunny day. Our table was covered with cute table cloth and everything looks neat and clean. We were started with teas first, and each of us got to pick our own tea. My sis picked the Lychee Rose Green as I had my eyes on the Dragon well. Our teas came out fast and were quickly followed by the yummy high tea display. Starting from the bottom, we had Cucumber with Dill Cream Cheese Chicken, Apple, Walnut, Cranberry Salad Cream Cheese with Guava Jam, Pastrami with Cabbage Salad. This was followed by a warm Scone with Clotted Cream & Jam; a toasted Crumpet with butter & Lemon Curd; and a selection from their Sweet Tray! Everything was so delicious and paired so well with our selections of teas! The service was attentive as well as they checked on us frequently and refilled our tea pots when needed. We had a wonderful time here, slowing down and enjoying the smaller things in life :)

    Picked up a lunch order to go, and decided to briefly stay to taste other items. The black currant…read morescone was delicious as were the crumpets, especially with the clotted cream, raspberry preserves and lemon curd. The spiced citrus tea in the beautiful tea cup was full of flavor. The 2 person staff were welcoming and helpful. The lovely owner explained the details of my order when serving it, down to the adorable heat shaped butter on the crumpets. The lemon ginger scone was my favorite, along with the Scottish Caramel Pu-ehr tea. I look forward to experiencing more from the high tea menu at this cute indoor/outdoor location.

    Photos
    Lovey's Tea Shoppe - Outside (9/21)

    Outside (9/21)

    Lovey's Tea Shoppe - Adorable tea pot

    Adorable tea pot

    Lovey's Tea Shoppe - Vanilla/Lavendar

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    Vanilla/Lavendar

    Kava Bar - lounges - Updated September 2026

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