Honestly wanted something gut friendly like 2 nights ago. I was not even trying to order something sweet but the service was impeccable. The vibe was right. The server was pretty. Got a vanilla chai. So so
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Strawberry Kava-Cake
Alexsandra Urdaneta
It was our first time drinking kava and it was truly incredible! This place is super, the service was excellent, they explained everything to us and we finished with some delicious cocktails! The vibe of this place is incredible! I would definitely go again!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Phillip McFarlane
It was my first visit here and Paige was very helpful in giving me the rundown. After a sample, I felt that kava wasn't for me so I opted for a white tea with lychee flavor. The taste was refreshing and smooth, so I had another and ended up almost falling asleep due to the kratom! Inside was lively and full of people socializing. Luckily for me there were some spots where I could sit by myself. I would come again to have a relaxing drink.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Merrek DeBolt
I come here for most trivia Tuesday nights, and it usually gets pretty packed. But that doesn't stop the staff from making sure you're taken care of and trying to make space for you.I was totally fine to stand and hang around but one of the managers offered up their seat and rearranged seats just so me and my friends could all sit together.Love this place and it's always fun to come to!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Anthony S
I've been a regular at this bar for a year and a half, and I've never experienced another place like it. I've never been a "regular" anywhere until I started coming here, and that is because of the incredible atmosphere, community, and most importantly: their staff. Christian (manager), Kate, Paige G., Paige T., Cristie, Zach, and the rest of the brewers are all some of the most amazing people I've ever met. Over the past year I've had the privilege of getting to know each of them and The Muddy Root truly would not be the place that it is without them. Christian does a phenomenal job as manager, I don't think I've ever met a more friendly person than him and ever since he's become manager you can see the passion he puts into his job. Truthfully I could say amazing things about everyone here, both staff and customers. Their team does an amazing job of maintaining a positive and welcoming environment, which in turn creates an overall sense of comfort that just makes you feel safe with everyone in there.As a friend of the kavatenders, it makes me sad seeing some of the reviews on here that are just outright slanderous and inappropriate. To anyone who has never visited The Muddy Root before, I'd suggest going here yourself before forming an opinion. You won't be disappointed, I promise.The Muddy Root has a sense of community that I haven't seen anywhere else, and it's changed my life for the better.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Adam Faidy
TLDR: Fake reviews & even faker kavatenders who openly snicker and gossip about their customers and owner. Avoid and run for the hills.Christian the now manager is known throughout the community for serving drinks to young college men, flirting with them to the point of absolute repulsion and still going, and to his dismay, leveraging his position to try to get something out of the situation. The behavioral is extremely predatorial and there are numerous personal stories by former customers who feel this way. If you shut down his advances, he turns you into an enemy. Stay away from his predatory behavior and disingenuous kindness. Any chance to make an innuendo and make you uncomfortable, he leaps on it.Another Kava-tender Paige is noticeably under the influence during work, takes them while working and openly talks about use of illicit substances. She forms cliques, calls her boss homophobic and will make fun of you behind the bar. Possibly the fakest person I've personally had the misfortune of encountering. Want receive animosity and eye rolls when you ask for drinks? Just ask for Paige. Oh, let’s not mention the racist comments.Run for the hills and go anywhere else. There are so many better kava bars in Orlando. I suggest you try out Elevate, Lei Kava, Island vibes.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Emilie Rott
I love this place the staff are always super friendly and the vibes are immaculate!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Chelsea Hostetler
I'm a regular here. The staff is phenomenal, especially Christian.. coming from a hospitality perspective, he gives amazing service, he's knowledgeable & so so kind.. everyone there is!.. I'm so grateful to have such a chill spot to be a part of, & although the demographic is mostly young adults (university students) It's a very welcoming & judgment free zone, which is pretty hard to come by these days. Even all of the regulars are super sweet & friendly to one another, along with newcomers. Overall it's really a cool experience & of course their product is the best within a 15 mile radius.. I can't advocate enough for this place.. if ur interested in the kava/Kratom life, this is def the place to start ur journey!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
salman nasir
Stopped by for a boost from outta town last weekend and if I'm ever in the Tampa area again I'm definitely coming back here. Amazing matcha latte and kind servers!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Eric K
Most of these reviews were done after they ran a promotion where a 5 star review would get you a free drink. Don’t fall prey to this distortion. I’ve hold off on writing this review at the request of my girlfriend not wanting the kavatenders to continue to slander her name. But enough time has passed.I had been a regular at this place for a while (about a year) and I think there are quite a few things prospective customers and regulars ought to know. Primarily, I’ll start with staff. As a regular who would speak with all levels of staff (including manager Kate and Christian) they would often spread rumors about customers to other customers. It’s one thing to talk about customers amongst your coworkers, we all do that. However, to openly slander customers behind their back to other customers only serves to isolate the victim of their ridicule from the overall community. Simple things like how they dress, their weight, and their quirks are all fair game for what they’re eager to spread amongst the entire bar when that person is not present. It’s truly disgusting and I’m ashamed to have considered any of them my friends. They are friendly to your face and will slander you behind your back. With Christian as the manager, the slander will permeate the work culture from the top down.An example of this slander hit me personally when my girlfriend was attacked. For context, a few months back, kavatenders Christian (now manager), Kate, Paige (not Thornburg, but the condescending Paige) started spreading a rumor that the owner of that kava bar (their employer) was homophonic because he didn’t want to advertise pride-week. This situation that validates my standing on this unprofessional establishment begins to involve my gf and I when we decide to check out a kava bar closer to my girlfriend’s home (after moving further out). She was accused of stealing customers from the Muddy Root and the now manager Christian took to opportunity to place blame of the homophobic rumors that he started on her. What made this all so terrible was that my gf considered Manager Christian a close friend (we would often say he’ll be a part of our wedding) so when we were effectively ostracized from the Muddy Root, my gf cried for days after our seeming friends (the kavatenders) were too cowardly to accept responsibility for slandering the man who writes their checks. To anyone who ever considered or is considering making this place your second home, beware. These kavatenders are incredibly selfish, talk openly about drugs (Paige (not Zach’s bf)) repeatedly worked under the influence and promoted drugs at a sober bar, and do not genuinely care about customers outside of their clique. Instead, consider patronizing one of the many other genuine kava bars. Kava bars including Kava Cove, Elevate, Island Vibes, Lei kava, and Sodo Kava have exceptional service and great quality. I remember hearing kavatenders complain about running events that were meant to encourage community bonding. They dread having to do bingo for us, they’d rather do the bare minimum.So what’s good about the muddy root? Location, and location alone. Its proximity to UCF makes it a great study location during the morning and early afternoon hours. However, as the night goes on the floor space does not accommodate the slew of 18 year old students without a fake i.d. for bars.The drinks are equivalent to what you would find across the entire bar (nothing unique). Yet you’d feel a much better sense of community going to any other kava bar.Do yourself a favor and save yourself the money by getting drinks of the same quality (at a much lower price) and tipping kavatenders who deserve it at any other kava bar (elevate, kava cove, and lei kava are exceptional).
An absolute wonderful place to hangout! I am here almost everyday and can honestly say that every single for employee genuinely cares and are the most friendly people I have ever met. Great drinks for reasonable prices and always events going on. The patrons are just as kind. It’s always uplifting to come here and I absolutely love it! Special shout out to Paige Cristina Christian and Zach! Amazing people!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kayla A.
Went with my friend tonight for the first time, I ordered a botanical tea which was yummy (very earthy) and the bartender was very sweet, helpful and gave a good description of the menu. Only thing was an older guy sat next to us and started staring at my friend, he then took a picture (of us it seemed) and continued staring in a very creepy way. His vibe was scary so we ended up leaving and he continued to stare at us as we walked out, scared the shit out of us honestly so I probably won't be back.
David Lannon
I was first introduced to The Muddy Root a couple years ago. Then, the kava was great, however the interior design had not yet found its voice. Nonetheless, I enjoyed spending time there with friends and drinking their kratom kombucha. I have recently come back and they have refreshed the interior design for better open interaction with others and the kava is still great.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Strawberry Kava-Cake
JacobTheWise
Genuinely my favorite place on Earth.I've been going to Muddy for over a year now, and there is no place that has made me feel more welcomed or appreciated. The first time I came it had been recommended to me by a friend, and despite coming alone I felt completely comfortable as the tender at the time (Cooper) talked with me for about an hour in between orders. All of the kava tenders here are extremely kind and help the atmosphere to be inviting and warm.This is a great place to just sit and study by yourself, but its also a great opportunity to have conversations with new people about pretty much anything. It never feels intimidating to join in on a discussion and most everyone who comes is welcoming to new patrons. Come enough and you'll definitely find your people.Also, as someone who's visited a lot of the kava and kratom bars in the area, this place by far has my favorite tea. The quality is always high and, once you get used to the taste, its a great way to relax and really enjoy the time you spend (I always recommend the green strain for newcomers). The coffee is amazing, too, and that is coming from someone who's worked as a barista for close to two years now.Cannot recommend this place enough, especially for students looking to make more connections in the area. This is a wonderful place to spend your time, whether to study or to meet new people.
Honestly wanted something gut friendly like 2 nights ago. I was not even trying to order something sweet but the service was impeccable. The vibe was right. The server was pretty. Got a vanilla chai. So so
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Strawberry Kava-Cake
It was our first time drinking kava and it was truly incredible! This place is super, the service was excellent, they explained everything to us and we finished with some delicious cocktails! The vibe of this place is incredible! I would definitely go again!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
It was my first visit here and Paige was very helpful in giving me the rundown. After a sample, I felt that kava wasn't for me so I opted for a white tea with lychee flavor. The taste was refreshing and smooth, so I had another and ended up almost falling asleep due to the kratom! Inside was lively and full of people socializing. Luckily for me there were some spots where I could sit by myself. I would come again to have a relaxing drink.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I come here for most trivia Tuesday nights, and it usually gets pretty packed. But that doesn't stop the staff from making sure you're taken care of and trying to make space for you.I was totally fine to stand and hang around but one of the managers offered up their seat and rearranged seats just so me and my friends could all sit together.Love this place and it's always fun to come to!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I've been a regular at this bar for a year and a half, and I've never experienced another place like it. I've never been a "regular" anywhere until I started coming here, and that is because of the incredible atmosphere, community, and most importantly: their staff. Christian (manager), Kate, Paige G., Paige T., Cristie, Zach, and the rest of the brewers are all some of the most amazing people I've ever met. Over the past year I've had the privilege of getting to know each of them and The Muddy Root truly would not be the place that it is without them. Christian does a phenomenal job as manager, I don't think I've ever met a more friendly person than him and ever since he's become manager you can see the passion he puts into his job. Truthfully I could say amazing things about everyone here, both staff and customers. Their team does an amazing job of maintaining a positive and welcoming environment, which in turn creates an overall sense of comfort that just makes you feel safe with everyone in there.As a friend of the kavatenders, it makes me sad seeing some of the reviews on here that are just outright slanderous and inappropriate. To anyone who has never visited The Muddy Root before, I'd suggest going here yourself before forming an opinion. You won't be disappointed, I promise.The Muddy Root has a sense of community that I haven't seen anywhere else, and it's changed my life for the better.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
TLDR: Fake reviews & even faker kavatenders who openly snicker and gossip about their customers and owner. Avoid and run for the hills.Christian the now manager is known throughout the community for serving drinks to young college men, flirting with them to the point of absolute repulsion and still going, and to his dismay, leveraging his position to try to get something out of the situation. The behavioral is extremely predatorial and there are numerous personal stories by former customers who feel this way. If you shut down his advances, he turns you into an enemy. Stay away from his predatory behavior and disingenuous kindness. Any chance to make an innuendo and make you uncomfortable, he leaps on it.Another Kava-tender Paige is noticeably under the influence during work, takes them while working and openly talks about use of illicit substances. She forms cliques, calls her boss homophobic and will make fun of you behind the bar. Possibly the fakest person I've personally had the misfortune of encountering. Want receive animosity and eye rolls when you ask for drinks? Just ask for Paige. Oh, let’s not mention the racist comments.Run for the hills and go anywhere else. There are so many better kava bars in Orlando. I suggest you try out Elevate, Lei Kava, Island vibes.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
I love this place the staff are always super friendly and the vibes are immaculate!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
I'm a regular here. The staff is phenomenal, especially Christian.. coming from a hospitality perspective, he gives amazing service, he's knowledgeable & so so kind.. everyone there is!.. I'm so grateful to have such a chill spot to be a part of, & although the demographic is mostly young adults (university students) It's a very welcoming & judgment free zone, which is pretty hard to come by these days. Even all of the regulars are super sweet & friendly to one another, along with newcomers. Overall it's really a cool experience & of course their product is the best within a 15 mile radius.. I can't advocate enough for this place.. if ur interested in the kava/Kratom life, this is def the place to start ur journey!
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Stopped by for a boost from outta town last weekend and if I'm ever in the Tampa area again I'm definitely coming back here. Amazing matcha latte and kind servers!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Most of these reviews were done after they ran a promotion where a 5 star review would get you a free drink. Don’t fall prey to this distortion. I’ve hold off on writing this review at the request of my girlfriend not wanting the kavatenders to continue to slander her name. But enough time has passed.I had been a regular at this place for a while (about a year) and I think there are quite a few things prospective customers and regulars ought to know. Primarily, I’ll start with staff. As a regular who would speak with all levels of staff (including manager Kate and Christian) they would often spread rumors about customers to other customers. It’s one thing to talk about customers amongst your coworkers, we all do that. However, to openly slander customers behind their back to other customers only serves to isolate the victim of their ridicule from the overall community. Simple things like how they dress, their weight, and their quirks are all fair game for what they’re eager to spread amongst the entire bar when that person is not present. It’s truly disgusting and I’m ashamed to have considered any of them my friends. They are friendly to your face and will slander you behind your back. With Christian as the manager, the slander will permeate the work culture from the top down.An example of this slander hit me personally when my girlfriend was attacked. For context, a few months back, kavatenders Christian (now manager), Kate, Paige (not Thornburg, but the condescending Paige) started spreading a rumor that the owner of that kava bar (their employer) was homophonic because he didn’t want to advertise pride-week. This situation that validates my standing on this unprofessional establishment begins to involve my gf and I when we decide to check out a kava bar closer to my girlfriend’s home (after moving further out). She was accused of stealing customers from the Muddy Root and the now manager Christian took to opportunity to place blame of the homophobic rumors that he started on her. What made this all so terrible was that my gf considered Manager Christian a close friend (we would often say he’ll be a part of our wedding) so when we were effectively ostracized from the Muddy Root, my gf cried for days after our seeming friends (the kavatenders) were too cowardly to accept responsibility for slandering the man who writes their checks. To anyone who ever considered or is considering making this place your second home, beware. These kavatenders are incredibly selfish, talk openly about drugs (Paige (not Zach’s bf)) repeatedly worked under the influence and promoted drugs at a sober bar, and do not genuinely care about customers outside of their clique. Instead, consider patronizing one of the many other genuine kava bars. Kava bars including Kava Cove, Elevate, Island Vibes, Lei kava, and Sodo Kava have exceptional service and great quality. I remember hearing kavatenders complain about running events that were meant to encourage community bonding. They dread having to do bingo for us, they’d rather do the bare minimum.So what’s good about the muddy root? Location, and location alone. Its proximity to UCF makes it a great study location during the morning and early afternoon hours. However, as the night goes on the floor space does not accommodate the slew of 18 year old students without a fake i.d. for bars.The drinks are equivalent to what you would find across the entire bar (nothing unique). Yet you’d feel a much better sense of community going to any other kava bar.Do yourself a favor and save yourself the money by getting drinks of the same quality (at a much lower price) and tipping kavatenders who deserve it at any other kava bar (elevate, kava cove, and lei kava are exceptional).
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 2
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
An absolute wonderful place to hangout! I am here almost everyday and can honestly say that every single for employee genuinely cares and are the most friendly people I have ever met. Great drinks for reasonable prices and always events going on. The patrons are just as kind. It’s always uplifting to come here and I absolutely love it! Special shout out to Paige Cristina Christian and Zach! Amazing people!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Went with my friend tonight for the first time, I ordered a botanical tea which was yummy (very earthy) and the bartender was very sweet, helpful and gave a good description of the menu. Only thing was an older guy sat next to us and started staring at my friend, he then took a picture (of us it seemed) and continued staring in a very creepy way. His vibe was scary so we ended up leaving and he continued to stare at us as we walked out, scared the shit out of us honestly so I probably won't be back.
I was first introduced to The Muddy Root a couple years ago. Then, the kava was great, however the interior design had not yet found its voice. Nonetheless, I enjoyed spending time there with friends and drinking their kratom kombucha. I have recently come back and they have refreshed the interior design for better open interaction with others and the kava is still great.
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Strawberry Kava-Cake
Genuinely my favorite place on Earth.I've been going to Muddy for over a year now, and there is no place that has made me feel more welcomed or appreciated. The first time I came it had been recommended to me by a friend, and despite coming alone I felt completely comfortable as the tender at the time (Cooper) talked with me for about an hour in between orders. All of the kava tenders here are extremely kind and help the atmosphere to be inviting and warm.This is a great place to just sit and study by yourself, but its also a great opportunity to have conversations with new people about pretty much anything. It never feels intimidating to join in on a discussion and most everyone who comes is welcoming to new patrons. Come enough and you'll definitely find your people.Also, as someone who's visited a lot of the kava and kratom bars in the area, this place by far has my favorite tea. The quality is always high and, once you get used to the taste, its a great way to relax and really enjoy the time you spend (I always recommend the green strain for newcomers). The coffee is amazing, too, and that is coming from someone who's worked as a barista for close to two years now.Cannot recommend this place enough, especially for students looking to make more connections in the area. This is a wonderful place to spend your time, whether to study or to meet new people.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great place to study and hangout!