When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
The Root Kava Co.
Why The Root Kava Co. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Root Kava Co. in Boulder, Colorado, offers a unique and inviting space dedicated to the natural benefits of kava, an ancient medicinal root from the South Pacific known for its relaxing and calming effects. Since opening in 2018, The Root Kava Co. has become a beloved local spot for both seasoned kava enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, designed to foster relaxation and meaningful social connections without the presence of alcohol. Customers gather in comfy chairs surrounded by local artwork, enjoying a drink that blends tradition with a modern, healthy lifestyle. The Root Kava Co. serves noble kava, premium ethnobotanical teas, and unique tonics sourced sustainably from ethical growers in the South Pacific. Beyond beverages, the bar hosts live music, art shows, game nights, and community events, making it an active cultural hub in Boulder. The founders, experienced in the service industry, aimed to create an inclusive, health-conscious alternative to typical social venues. Local ingredients are proudly used, supporting Colorado’s business and artistic communities through the Root Kava Collective. Whether visitors seek social relaxation or a healthy supplement, The Root Kava Co. offers a distinctive blend of tradition, community, and wellness that makes it an exceptional gathering place.
Here's what people think of The Root Kava Co.
As of recent, The Root Kava Co. holds a 4.7-star rating based on 249 reviews.
Reviews of The Root Kava Co. reflect a strong overall appreciation, earning a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 249 users. Reviewers consistently praise the inviting and relaxing atmosphere, highlighting the comfortable seating and friendly, knowledgeable staff who enhance the experience by introducing patrons to kava’s benefits and culture. Many positive comments emphasize the uniqueness of the venue as a non-alcoholic alternative for socializing, noting live music and community events as added attractions that enrich the welcoming vibe. Customers appreciate the quality and taste of the noble kava and the variety of ethnobotanical teas offered, often mentioning how it helps them relax and unwind naturally. On the other hand, some negative reviews have pointed to occasional waits during busy times and desire for expanded hours or more seating to accommodate demand. A few users mentioned the acquired taste of kava might not be for everyone, which aligns with the traditional nature of the beverage. Overall, however, the positive experiences of community feel, product quality, and service quality outweigh the downsides. The Root Kava Co. successfully balances cultural authenticity with local engagement, making it a standout destination in Boulder’s social and wellness scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Adam Kulikowski
The Root Kava Co. Is amazing and the best Kava Bar I’ve ever ever found. The drinks are amazing with a lot of variety and the people displaced tracks are incredible. The staff at this place is so fun, engaging and makes you feel at home. If you want a next level Kava experience, come to The Root Kava Co. I love the dirty badger! This place gives the best service. Enjoy!!
Hyun Choi
I had a great experience at The Root! The atmosphere is super chill, cozy, welcoming, and exactly the kind of place where you can relax and unwind. Whether you're new to kava or a regular, you’ll feel right at home here. Pat, the owner, is awesome. He's friendly, down to earth, and clearly cares about the community he's building. You can tell he’s passionate about what he does, and it really shows in the vibe of the place. Definitely worth stopping by if you're in the area. Great drinks, great people, great energy.
Abdulmohsen Al Ali
Love the vibes at the root!! It’s a very friendly environment almost like community. Its a lovely place to hangout. Made so many friends at the Root. The staff are chill and would love to give you a crash course on their products. Miles, Justin, Victor, ERock, Marissa are the best Kava Bartenders. Love this place!
Robert Rowe
I've been to Root Kava twice now, and looking forward to going again! The employees (kava-tenders? bartenders?) are super-knowledgeable about kava/kratom and welcoming to newcomers and regulars alike. Pricing is reasonable, and again, welcoming to newcomers. Both times I've gone have been to lurk during their weekly Saturday night Smash Brothers tournament. The event seems to draw a good crowd of folks without it taking over the entire space. Overall, The Root Kava Co. feels like a great nightlife, "third space" with a great community surrounding it.
ffeelsalrightt
genuinely my favorite place in boulder. this is the real boulder. everything else is set dressing. edit: i’ve been coming here for 5 years
How to reach The Root Kava Co.
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Why The Root Kava Co. may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Root Kava Co. with your friends? The Root Kava Co. offers a unique, welcoming environment that makes it an ideal spot for social gatherings with friends or family. Unlike a typical bar or café, it specializes in kava—a traditional Pacific Island beverage known for its calming and relaxing effects—allowing visitors to enjoy a different kind of laid-back social experience. With a highly rated 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 250 reviews, patrons consistently praise its friendly vibe, chill atmosphere, and the warmth of its community. The staff, known as “kavatenders,” are approachable and knowledgeable, often eager to educate guests about kava and ethnobotanical teas, which enhances the experience and helps groups bond over learning something new together. Additionally, the bar's diverse crowd and regulars create a sense of camaraderie, turning casual visits into repeated meetups. The Root Kava Co. encourages a relaxed pace, making it a perfect destination to unwind, chat deeply, or just have fun without the noise or pressure of a typical nightlife scene.
What activities and experiences can groups enjoy at The Root Kava Co.? The Root Kava Co. provides a variety of engaging activities that cater to groups looking for more than just a drink. The bar is well-equipped with board games, a ping-pong table, and hula hoops—perfect for sparking friendly competition or simple, quaint entertainment among friends. These activities encourage playful interaction, making it easier for groups to connect, laugh, and create memorable experiences. Live music and open mic nights are also frequent, offering guests a dynamic cultural backdrop that elevates the social atmosphere while supporting local artists and musicians. Additionally, themed events like karaoke nights or holiday parties bring an extra layer of excitement and provide natural icebreakers and conversation starters. For those who prefer a quieter engagement, there is a video screen that displays adventurous snowboard clips, paired with mellow hip-hop tunes, contributing to a chill and inclusive environment. These varied activities ensure that every meetup can be uniquely enjoyable, whether your group favors active socializing or serene relaxation.
Why does The Root Kava Co. suit group meetups so well? Its spacious layout and emphasis on community make it easy to accommodate both small groups and larger gatherings comfortably. The Root Kava Co. is dedicated to fostering a friendly, communal atmosphere where conversations flow naturally, and new friendships are formed alongside existing bonds. This welcoming culture is highlighted by the convivial staff and loyal patrons, many of whom return regularly, creating a vibrant yet intimate community vibe. Furthermore, the drink menu is thoughtfully crafted with quality and variety in mind: ranging from traditional noble kava served in ceremonial shells to modern concoctions featuring kratom, kombucha, and CBD-infused beverages. This diversity suits differing tastes and preferences within a group, helping everyone find an enjoyable beverage and ensuring no one feels left out. The focus on premium ingredients and carefully curated blends also guarantees a unique experience not typically found at other social venues. Overall, The Root Kava Co. is a versatile locale that feels like a home base for groups seeking both relaxation and engaging group dynamics.
What makes the drink selection at The Root Kava Co. perfect for sharing with friends? The core offerings revolve around kava—an ancient plant-based beverage known for promoting calm and social bonding—unlike alcohol, it encourages alertness without intoxication, making it ideal for meaningful conversations. The Root serves “noble” kava, the highest quality variety, prepared fresh and available in various forms, including traditional shells and innovative cocktails. Beyond kava, their menu also features ethnobotanical teas, kratom, and CBD-infused drinks, catering to a wide range of preferences and wellness goals. Many reviewers praise the friendly kavatenders who provide detailed tastings and recommendations, enhancing the group experience by inviting curiosity and shared discovery. Moreover, pricing is accessible, comparable to craft cocktails but with the added benefit of wellness promotion, allowing groups to indulge without breaking the bank. This careful balance of quality, variety, and educational approach makes sharing drinks at The Root Kava Co. a unique, enriching experience tailored perfectly for social gatherings.
How does The Root Kava Co. support and engage with the local community? Connection and collaboration with the local Boulder community are at the heart of The Root Kava Co.’s mission. They actively support local artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs by hosting events such as art shows, live music nights, and open mic sessions that give these talents a platform to shine. The Root Kava Collective, a community-driven initiative, fosters local business partnerships and encourages submissions from local creatives—this creates a lively, ever-changing environment that keeps the venue fresh and exciting for return visits. This strong community orientation contributes to the genuine, neighborly atmosphere that many guests find so inviting. In addition, their commitment to sourcing local ingredients whenever possible demonstrates a deeper connection to Boulder’s ecosystem, supporting sustainability and the local economy. For groups seeking a venue with soul and meaningful community ties, The Root Kava Co. stands out as not only a place to meet but a hub of local culture and warmth.
What are the venue’s hours and accessibility details for planning group meetups? The Root Kava Co. is open daily from early afternoon into the late night, typically from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m., offering a broad window that accommodates a variety of social plans, from afternoon chill sessions to late-night hangouts. Extended hours are particularly helpful for groups who want flexibility—whether meeting after work, unwinding on weekends, or even enjoying a late-night cap of single kava shells at discounted prices. Located in Buffalo Village on 28th Street in Boulder, the venue is conveniently accessible via multiple transit options or car, with nearby parking facilities available. The spacious interior of the bar, combined with its relaxed, family-friendly daytime vibe, makes it accommodating for different group types, whether friends gathering after school, coworkers meeting for casual socializing, or families looking to enjoy a unique, smoke-free environment. This accessibility and openness support a hassle-free meetup planning experience.
Why do regular customers return to The Root Kava Co.? Loyal patrons often cite the combination of the quality product, the welcoming atmosphere, and the vibrant community as key reasons for their return. The staff’s friendliness and expertise foster a sense of belonging, transforming first-time visitors into regulars who feel like part of The Root family. The bar’s unique focus on noble kava and ethnobotanical drinks offers a refreshing alternative to traditional nightlife, promoting wellness and relaxation in a social setting. Moreover, the venue consistently introduces creative drinks and hosts engaging events, which keeps the experience exciting and inviting. Reviews frequently highlight the venue’s atmosphere as “friendly,” “lively,” and “a perfect place to hang out,” reflecting a consensus that The Root Kava Co. is more than a place to drink—it is a community hub that welcomes and nurtures meaningful interactions among friends old and new.