Reviews for MeloMelo Kava Bar in Santa Cruz, CA
Cool place to have some Kava and learn about its use in the traditional manner. I personally really like the taste of the Kava,... something I was not expecting. It has some pretty interesting immediate effects that subside rather quickly, but I did notice along lasting "uplifted" feeling that lingered for a few hours which was great. Overall an awesome experience due to the chillvibes and knowledgeable/friendly staff. Read more
*Fairly new to the kava experience * I love this kava bar! The kava-tenders are always courteous and knowledgeable about the... benefits of kava and this place just has great vibes. The music is always changing depending on who?s running the bar!! Greatfor groups of friends (or singles) to go relax who would like an alternative to alcohol! Swing on by and give it a chance tohelp you relax in a world that?s in a rush! Joel, JJ, & Lou are great btw! Read more
This spot is awesome and I hope it continues to do really well. I'm an American who used to play some rugby (College and Men's... club). Any American Rugby player has spent a good deal of time around Pacific Islanders. I happened to be in Tonga once upon atime and had the chance to attend a true, traditional Kava party with a Rugby team there. It was an amazing experience. Everyonesat in a circle with gentle music playing, talked softly and enjoyed the Kava together, shared out of large wooden bowls. Thisbar is not the same experience, because it is a bar and therefore can't be. Otherwise, it is as authentic as can be. The kava wedrank tastes exactly--exactly--like what I had when I had the real thing in Tonga. The bowls are not shared as they would be ata traditional Kava party (which makes complete sense...I don't think America would even allow that in an era that wasn't theCOVID era) but otherwise are made of the same material and remind me of that experience. The servers were excellent and veryfriendly. As to the Kava, this was my second time and I enjoyed it more than the first. My Brazilian girlfriend (who has neverhad any kind of drug in her life and was a bit scared to try, thinking it was a drug, which it is not) said she found it to bethe best alternative to alcohol she has ever had. Like getting drunk without losing control of your body or feeling sick. I'dsay it's just incredibly relaxing, but agree with her as well. Only caution to those going--I would avoid going on Wednesdaybetween 9:30 and 11:00. At that time they have some insane, whirlwind happy hour and the place fills up with really obnoxiousand borderline disrespectful 18 to 21 year olds, and the entire ambience ends up being exactly the opposite of what a Kavaexperience should be--chill, friendly, mellow, and relaxing. Other than those hours, it is highly, highly recommended. Read more
Unique experience. kava is an upper. It is comfortable with a bar and couches. There are choices of Java drinks and the folks... who work here are knowledgable and happy to help you chose. Read more
Awesome "bar" with kava, kombucha and CBD on tap with chilled out vibes and Earthy decor!
I went in kinda skeptical, but I met my friend Kylie there because she thought I would like it. She was right! I did a little... research on Kava before going, so I was expecting it to be super bitter... it wasn't. It was less bitter than black coffee. Theeffect is mild and nice. We sat and talked, and everyone was so chill and open. The guy behind the bar (I think his name isJohnny) was great helping me figure out what I wanted. He gave me some background on the history of the drink and the islands itcomes from. What a nice evening! Read more
My friend and I were walking across the street from MeloMelo when we noticed their beautiful green wall and had to go in. So... happy this caught our eye! Lisa taught us how to drink Kava traditionally, which was fun and informative. We both enjoyed theNakOut and also tried the Dreams version which was delicious. Could very much feel the euphoric effects and we enjoyed loungingon the comfy couches under the green wall. Would love to go back next time I?m in Santa Cruz! Read more
Awesome spot for hanging and enjoying some great kava. A must visit if in downtown Santa Cruz