Kava is a traditional South Pacific drink made from the root of the kava plant, which is steeped in water and squeezed to release kavalactones, compounds known for their calming, anxiety-relieving effects. At the newly opened BLVD Kava Lounge, guests can try the classic, earthy-tasting hand-squeezed version or opt for flavored kava extracts served as creative mocktails. 

Owner Lior Manelis, who grew up in South Florida, was first introduced to kava through the many kava bars he frequented there. Seeing how these spaces served people dealing with anxiety, PTSD, and alcohol-related issues, while also noticing the trend of younger generations seeking non-alcoholic social options, he was inspired to bring a similar, community-focused, alcohol-free lounge concept to Fayetteville.

“We wanted to put something together where people could come in, not feel like they felt pressure to drink and hang out and create a community for our customers,” explained Manelis.

Kava offers the social ritual and relaxation people often seek from a night out, but without the intoxication and impairment that comes with drinking alcohol.

“There’s nothing that's actually going to create a physical impairment. It's more so you just feel that full body relaxation,” added Manelis.

In addition to its kava offerings, the lounge is set up as a full-scale social hub, with 11 TVs showing everything from major sporting events like the World Cup to popular shows and themed movie nights. Guests can play on PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch consoles right at the bar, or opt for board games and two freshly refelted pool tables for a more analog experience. Manelis shared that the team is also working on getting their kitchen up and running as well. They expect to be serving quick bites like mini pizzas within the next month. 

“We're really enjoying the Fayetteville community. It's been super receptive…We have a lot of regulars [and] we have a lot of new people coming in daily,” shared Manelis. 

BLVD Kava Lounge is open 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. every day. Learn more by visiting their website: https://blvdkava.com/