Karma Kava has tasty affordable drinks, especially during Happy Hour. Carolina is an excellent Kavatender and remembers your preferences despite serving scores of customers. Great experience
Food: 5
Aqua man 14
This is the best place to get kava/kratom in the Fort Lauderdale area, the happy hour deals and the strength of product are the best by far. I can get a few drinks in a night here and no feel like I’m spending a fortune, the location and atmosphere and vibes are great been coming here for over a year. The staff is really cool too and the music is Lou f enough to enjoy, Carolina and Gabe and the rest of staff are very friendly do a great job. Bula !!
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Andrea Garzon
Extremely Unprofessional Staff
I’ve been coming to this local kava bar for a while, but the staff’s attitude has gotten embarrassing. The same guy (short, glasses, always looks miserable) has argued with customers twice now over the most ridiculous things.
This visit, he complained like a full-blown Karen because we sat at a table he apparently had to clean again. He actually said, “I find it very disrespectful y’all sat here without even asking.” Mind you the room was empty, the door was open, and we even stood there for a good five minutes trying to figure out if the seating was available. If the staff was paying attention, he would’ve obviously seen us debating it. Another customer even told us, “No one’s in there, go ahead,” so we sat down.
Instead of just doing the normal, basic job of resetting a table, he stood there whining and making the whole moment uncomfortable. I’ve never seen someone so bothered by doing the most standard part of their job.
And this isn’t new behavior. Months ago, this same guy sarcastically told my friend “thank you for the tip” when she DIDN’T tip because she was only buying a bottle of water before we left. We had already tipped on our actual drinks. The attitude was completely unnecessary.
If you’re that miserable working in a service job, just quit. Don’t take it out on the people supporting the business. It blows my mind that a place with so much potential lets one employee ruin the vibe with his attitude and random drama.
Super unprofessional, and honestly, it makes me not want to return if i’ll be greeted by that lil bro with napoleon complex.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 1
Aileen Carmona
A Remarkable Experience Every Visit — Thanks to Ken at Karma Kava Bar
Karma Kava Bar has become one of my favorite places not just because of its welcoming atmosphere, but because of the exceptional service consistently provided by their outstanding kavatender, Ken. His dedication to hospitality is truly unmatched. From the moment you walk in, he greets you with genuine warmth, sincere attentiveness, and the kind of positive energy that immediately elevates your entire day. In an industry where hospitality can often feel rushed or transactional, Ken stands out for his authentic care, professionalism, and mastery of his craft. He not only knows the menu inside and out, but he takes the time to understand each guest’s preferences and needs, ensuring recommendations that are thoughtful, personalized, and always spot-on. Whether you’re new to kava or a seasoned regular, he makes you feel comfortable, welcome, and valued. What sets Ken apart is his ability to create connection. He remembers faces, conversations, and even the small details that make each customer feel appreciated. His service is efficient yet unhurried, warm yet professional, and consistently delivered with a genuine smile. He embodies everything a hospitality professional should strive to be: attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable without being pretentious, and kind without expectation. Karma Kava Bar itself is an exceptional establishment—clean, inviting, and thoughtfully curated—but it is Ken who truly brings the experience to life. His passion for the community, his commitment to excellence, and his ability to create a safe, uplifting, and enjoyable environment make every visit feel special. If you’re looking for a place where the atmosphere is fantastic and the service is extraordinary, Karma Kava Bar with Ken behind the bar is absolutely unmatched. He doesn’t just serve kava—he serves comfort, connection, and kindness. People like Ken are the heart of hospitality, and he is a shining example of what makes Karma Kava Bar such a remarkable place. Highly recommended.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jalyn
I rarely leave reviews, especially negative ones, but I feel a responsibility to share my experience at Karma Kava in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Yesterday, I visited the bar intending to support a local business. As I approached the POS to purchase a simple Gatorade, I was unexpectedly told to leave—without any explanation. The owner’s demeanor was unwelcoming, abrupt, and frankly, aggressive. I asked for clarification and received none. No rules were broken, no disrespect was shown, and no context was provided for the ejection.
What struck me most was the tone and body language directed at me—something I’ve unfortunately come to recognize as the kind of quiet, coded hostility that people of color often face in certain spaces. While I can’t speak for the owner's intent, the optics and behavior left a strong impression that I was not welcome because of who I am. It’s disheartening to experience this in 2025, especially in an establishment that claims to promote community, relaxation, and wellness.
I hope Karma Kava reflects on the kind of environment they’re cultivating. Bars like this often pride themselves on being “inclusive” and “open,” but actions speak louder than branding.
To those looking for a genuinely welcoming atmosphere—especially if you're part of a marginalized group—this may not be the space for you.
Mark Karpich
I visited the Karma Kava Bar, and Ken turned out to be a very kind and wonderful person. I really appreciated how dedicated he is to his work, and I’m thankful to him for that.
Tyler Gallant (tytyx25)
Came here to see my buddy and I’ve been to 3-4 kava bars before. I came here to mention the blonde girl who served us w/ 2 braids. Super unfriendly and unwelcoming when the premise of an establishment is consumption of products that you’d want a reliable bartender for. Seemed like the only one working and I’m definitely not coming back. Management clearly needs to take a step back and do something because I could spot the issues from a mile away. We all agreed it was almost funny how hostile she seemed. I really hope things improve for you guys✌🏼
Waslley Felipe Secondino
The ambience has been amazing with the exception of the last two times we visited this past week when the playlist has been something very heavy and agitating - Very different than the deep house vibes we used to love. I’ll still give it a 5 star in general because service is good and the place is beautiful… also many other attendees didn’t seem to mind the change. But sadly the atmosphere is what specifically made us return to this particular location. I wish there was a way to know what the set list will be for the night so we can decide going or not, the music has been part of the experience. We used to go twice a week just to chill and stayed hours, yesterday we only ordered one beverage each and left.
Casey
Guy with blonde hair tats doesn’t care for cx and drinks taste really bad. Not including the blonde girl who rolls her eyes at everyone looks like she doesn’t want to work there I think her name is Caroline.
Luis Ramirez
The manager in the Blonde hair girl are very rude and abrupt about making sure you buy a drink. I was only there for 30 minutes just to work on a few things. I was gonna go ahead and buy a drink, but I was forced to vacate the premises due to not buying a drink as soon as I walk through that door And I’ve been a returning customer for the past month and the fact that they are treating returning customers like that seems like a money, hungry bar and I feel like as a business. Should never treat your customers like that or threatened to call the police do not recommend if you’re wanting to Relax and focus on things . Got it! Here’s the full message putting everything you said together in a clear, firm way:
---
You singled me out just for working there 30 minutes, which is disrespectful. I asked for water first because your drinks made me feel sluggish before—one even made me throw up due to a thick, unrecognizable substance (I have video proof from a Red Bull can). I planned to buy a drink after working a bit. Then you called the cops even after I said I would buy, just not immediately, and told me I was the only one who doesn’t buy a drink as soon as I walk in. Even when I showed empathy and apologized for not buying right away, you completely ignored me.
You literally let random crack heads and people dealing drugs hang out right in front of the place. If you want me to be real, I can take action on the consumption of that thick stuff I caught on video. Maybe focus on keeping your place safe, clean, and respectful instead of rushing out paying, returning customers.
This cozy and welcoming spot has quickly become one of my favorite places, where Kava is truly the main character! The staff is always incredibly friendly, creating a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. The music is always on point, perfectly setting the mood and adding to the space’s unique, feel-good energy. This place doesn’t just serve Kava drinks; it creates its own vibe. It’s warm, chill, and full of good people. I absolutely love it here and highly recommend stopping by to experience the magic for yourself!
Jazmine Snyder
My favorite Kava lounge in SoFlo!! Been a regular here now for the last 9 months.. the vibe is always chill, the people are down-to-earth, there’s usually a good conversation going on at any given moment, and the drinks themselves are top notch👌🏼 I’ve been to at least 7 different Kava spots from Fort Laudy, all the way down to SoBe, and though they were fun with pretty drinks, none of them could compare to the quality of the menu offered here. The music genre is different every time I come, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone. All of the staff are amazing and extremely inclusive, everyone is welcomed here. So if you’re looking for a place to kick back and unwind, leisure read, study, shoot pool, play games, converse, or just a place where you feel like you can be your silly/awkward/weird/beautiful self without judgement, this is it! :) Love and Light🤍
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Sydney Boyd
We came for hookah and had to walk up to the waitresses to order while the girl with 2 curls and blonde girl talked about some man and ignored us. We also sat ourselves at tables that were dirty and had several dirty glasses on it. Clearly hasn’t been cleaned and they didn’t care. We stood in front of the 2 waitressed talking and ignoring us for 3 mins before we just left. Terrible service. Can’t say much about the food but it was weird vibes.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Lev Fishman
Great atmosphere, also a good location because there was a really good taco truck right near it. If you want a chill spot to play some pool while sucking on that kratom, this is your place
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: K Soda Pineapple Passion, Karma Pong
Karma Kava has tasty affordable drinks, especially during Happy Hour. Carolina is an excellent Kavatender and remembers your preferences despite serving scores of customers. Great experience
Food: 5
This is the best place to get kava/kratom in the Fort Lauderdale area, the happy hour deals and the strength of product are the best by far. I can get a few drinks in a night here and no feel like I’m spending a fortune, the location and atmosphere and vibes are great been coming here for over a year. The staff is really cool too and the music is Lou f enough to enjoy, Carolina and Gabe and the rest of staff are very friendly do a great job. Bula !!
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Extremely Unprofessional Staff
I’ve been coming to this local kava bar for a while, but the staff’s attitude has gotten embarrassing. The same guy (short, glasses, always looks miserable) has argued with customers twice now over the most ridiculous things.
This visit, he complained like a full-blown Karen because we sat at a table he apparently had to clean again. He actually said, “I find it very disrespectful y’all sat here without even asking.”
Mind you the room was empty, the door was open, and we even stood there for a good five minutes trying to figure out if the seating was available. If the staff was paying attention, he would’ve obviously seen us debating it. Another customer even told us, “No one’s in there, go ahead,” so we sat down.
Instead of just doing the normal, basic job of resetting a table, he stood there whining and making the whole moment uncomfortable. I’ve never seen someone so bothered by doing the most standard part of their job.
And this isn’t new behavior. Months ago, this same guy sarcastically told my friend “thank you for the tip” when she DIDN’T tip because she was only buying a bottle of water before we left. We had already tipped on our actual drinks. The attitude was completely unnecessary.
If you’re that miserable working in a service job, just quit. Don’t take it out on the people supporting the business. It blows my mind that a place with so much potential lets one employee ruin the vibe with his attitude and random drama.
Super unprofessional, and honestly, it makes me not want to return if i’ll be greeted by that lil bro with napoleon complex.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 1
A Remarkable Experience Every Visit — Thanks to Ken at Karma Kava Bar
Karma Kava Bar has become one of my favorite places not just because of its welcoming atmosphere, but because of the exceptional service consistently provided by their outstanding kavatender, Ken. His dedication to hospitality is truly unmatched. From the moment you walk in, he greets you with genuine warmth, sincere attentiveness, and the kind of positive energy that immediately elevates your entire day.
In an industry where hospitality can often feel rushed or transactional, Ken stands out for his authentic care, professionalism, and mastery of his craft. He not only knows the menu inside and out, but he takes the time to understand each guest’s preferences and needs, ensuring recommendations that are thoughtful, personalized, and always spot-on. Whether you’re new to kava or a seasoned regular, he makes you feel comfortable, welcome, and valued.
What sets Ken apart is his ability to create connection. He remembers faces, conversations, and even the small details that make each customer feel appreciated. His service is efficient yet unhurried, warm yet professional, and consistently delivered with a genuine smile. He embodies everything a hospitality professional should strive to be: attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable without being pretentious, and kind without expectation.
Karma Kava Bar itself is an exceptional establishment—clean, inviting, and thoughtfully curated—but it is Ken who truly brings the experience to life. His passion for the community, his commitment to excellence, and his ability to create a safe, uplifting, and enjoyable environment make every visit feel special.
If you’re looking for a place where the atmosphere is fantastic and the service is extraordinary, Karma Kava Bar with Ken behind the bar is absolutely unmatched. He doesn’t just serve kava—he serves comfort, connection, and kindness. People like Ken are the heart of hospitality, and he is a shining example of what makes Karma Kava Bar such a remarkable place.
Highly recommended.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I rarely leave reviews, especially negative ones, but I feel a responsibility to share my experience at Karma Kava in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Yesterday, I visited the bar intending to support a local business. As I approached the POS to purchase a simple Gatorade, I was unexpectedly told to leave—without any explanation. The owner’s demeanor was unwelcoming, abrupt, and frankly, aggressive. I asked for clarification and received none. No rules were broken, no disrespect was shown, and no context was provided for the ejection.
What struck me most was the tone and body language directed at me—something I’ve unfortunately come to recognize as the kind of quiet, coded hostility that people of color often face in certain spaces. While I can’t speak for the owner's intent, the optics and behavior left a strong impression that I was not welcome because of who I am. It’s disheartening to experience this in 2025, especially in an establishment that claims to promote community, relaxation, and wellness.
I hope Karma Kava reflects on the kind of environment they’re cultivating. Bars like this often pride themselves on being “inclusive” and “open,” but actions speak louder than branding.
To those looking for a genuinely welcoming atmosphere—especially if you're part of a marginalized group—this may not be the space for you.
I visited the Karma Kava Bar, and Ken turned out to be a very kind and wonderful person. I really appreciated how dedicated he is to his work, and I’m thankful to him for that.
Came here to see my buddy and I’ve been to 3-4 kava bars before. I came here to mention the blonde girl who served us w/ 2 braids. Super unfriendly and unwelcoming when the premise of an establishment is consumption of products that you’d want a reliable bartender for. Seemed like the only one working and I’m definitely not coming back. Management clearly needs to take a step back and do something because I could spot the issues from a mile away. We all agreed it was almost funny how hostile she seemed. I really hope things improve for you guys✌🏼
The ambience has been amazing with the exception of the last two times we visited this past week when the playlist has been something very heavy and agitating - Very different than the deep house vibes we used to love. I’ll still give it a 5 star in general because service is good and the place is beautiful… also many other attendees didn’t seem to mind the change. But sadly the atmosphere is what specifically made us return to this particular location. I wish there was a way to know what the set list will be for the night so we can decide going or not, the music has been part of the experience. We used to go twice a week just to chill and stayed hours, yesterday we only ordered one beverage each and left.
Guy with blonde hair tats doesn’t care for cx and drinks taste really bad. Not including the blonde girl who rolls her eyes at everyone looks like she doesn’t want to work there I think her name is Caroline.
The manager in the Blonde hair girl are very rude and abrupt about making sure you buy a drink. I was only there for 30 minutes just to work on a few things. I was gonna go ahead and buy a drink, but I was forced to vacate the premises due to not buying a drink as soon as I walk through that door And I’ve been a returning customer for the past month and the fact that they are treating returning customers like that seems like a money, hungry bar and I feel like as a business. Should never treat your customers like that or threatened to call the police do not recommend if you’re wanting to Relax and focus on things .
Got it! Here’s the full message putting everything you said together in a clear, firm way:
---
You singled me out just for working there 30 minutes, which is disrespectful. I asked for water first because your drinks made me feel sluggish before—one even made me throw up due to a thick, unrecognizable substance (I have video proof from a Red Bull can). I planned to buy a drink after working a bit. Then you called the cops even after I said I would buy, just not immediately, and told me I was the only one who doesn’t buy a drink as soon as I walk in. Even when I showed empathy and apologized for not buying right away, you completely ignored me.
You literally let random crack heads and people dealing drugs hang out right in front of the place. If you want me to be real, I can take action on the consumption of that thick stuff I caught on video. Maybe focus on keeping your place safe, clean, and respectful instead of rushing out paying, returning customers.
Restaurantji Recommends
This cozy and welcoming spot has quickly become one of my favorite places, where Kava is truly the main character! The staff is always incredibly friendly, creating a laid-back and inclusive atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. The music is always on point, perfectly setting the mood and adding to the space’s unique, feel-good energy. This place doesn’t just serve Kava drinks; it creates its own vibe. It’s warm, chill, and full of good people. I absolutely love it here and highly recommend stopping by to experience the magic for yourself!
My favorite Kava lounge in SoFlo!! Been a regular here now for the last 9 months.. the vibe is always chill, the people are down-to-earth, there’s usually a good conversation going on at any given moment, and the drinks themselves are top notch👌🏼 I’ve been to at least 7 different Kava spots from Fort Laudy, all the way down to SoBe, and though they were fun with pretty drinks, none of them could compare to the quality of the menu offered here. The music genre is different every time I come, so there’s a little bit of something for everyone. All of the staff are amazing and extremely inclusive, everyone is welcomed here. So if you’re looking for a place to kick back and unwind, leisure read, study, shoot pool, play games, converse, or just a place where you feel like you can be your silly/awkward/weird/beautiful self without judgement, this is it! :) Love and Light🤍
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
We came for hookah and had to walk up to the waitresses to order while the girl with 2 curls and blonde girl talked about some man and ignored us. We also sat ourselves at tables that were dirty and had several dirty glasses on it. Clearly hasn’t been cleaned and they didn’t care. We stood in front of the 2 waitressed talking and ignoring us for 3 mins before we just left. Terrible service. Can’t say much about the food but it was weird vibes.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Great atmosphere, also a good location because there was a really good taco truck right near it. If you want a chill spot to play some pool while sucking on that kratom, this is your place
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: K Soda Pineapple Passion, Karma Pong
Such a chill spot! Animal friendly!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Loading...