What Is Kava? A Milwaukee Guide to Kava Drinks and Kava Bars
Kava keeps landing on menus as more people skip alcohol but still want a drink with some effect to it. Here's what kava actually is, how it differs from kratom, and where to try it in Milwaukee.
Kava, Explained
Kava is a beverage made from the root of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), which grows in the Pacific Islands. Communities in Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and across Polynesia have prepared it for centuries, traditionally by grinding the root and mixing it with water for ceremonies and social gatherings.
The active compounds in kava root are called kavalactones. Kava is not related to cannabis, doesn't contain THC or CBD, and is not psychedelic. Many people describe the experience as calm and social, though experiences vary and individual results aren't guaranteed. First-time drinkers often notice a mild tingling or numbing on the tongue — that's a normal, well-known property of the root.
What Is a Kava Bar?
A kava bar is a social venue that serves kava instead of (or alongside) alcohol — an alternative to a traditional bar for people who want to hang out without drinking. Kava bars took off in Florida and on the coasts and have been spreading through the Midwest as the sober-curious movement grows.
Kava vs. Kratom
The two get confused because some shops sell both, but they're unrelated plants:
- Kava comes from a Pacific Island root with a long ceremonial history. Its active compounds are kavalactones.
- Kratom comes from the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree and contains alkaloids that act differently in the body. It's a more controversial product with a different risk profile and different legal treatment in some jurisdictions.
If you're comparing the two, read labels carefully and buy from retailers who can tell you exactly what's in each product. Rules can change; check current state and local requirements.
Where to Try Kava in Milwaukee
Canni's infusion bar and cafe at 810 S 5th St in Walker's Point serves kava as one of its optional infusions. You can order a normal coffee, matcha, or house drink — or add kava, CBD, hemp-derived THC, mushroom, or adaptogenic infusions. It works well as a first kava experience because you can ask questions, review serving information, and drink it in an actual social space rather than mixing powder at home.
What to Check Before You Try Kava
- Ask what kind of kava preparation is used and how strong a serving is.
- Mention any medications or health conditions to your doctor first — kava isn't for everyone.
- Skip alcohol alongside your first kava.
- Expect the tongue-numbing sensation; it's normal.
- Ask staff what they recommend for a first-timer.
FAQ
What is kava? Kava is a traditional Pacific Island beverage made from the root of Piper methysticum. Its active compounds are kavalactones. It contains no THC, CBD, or alcohol.
What does kava feel like? Many people describe it as calming and social, often with a mild tongue-numbing sensation at first sip. Experiences vary and nothing is guaranteed.
Is kava legal? Kava is sold in the United States as a beverage and supplement ingredient. Rules can change; check current requirements.
Is there a kava bar in Milwaukee? Canni in Walker's Point serves kava at its infusion bar at 810 S 5th St — one local option for trying kava in a social setting.
Is kava the same as kratom? No. They're unrelated plants with different compounds, histories, and considerations.
Curious? Visit us in Walker's Point or check upcoming events if you'd rather try kava at a social night.
FDA Disclosure: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.