Tucked away on Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica, Kavahana is a social bar with a twist – they serve nectar, not alcohol. Every Tuesday night, Kavahana transforms its outdoor patio into a venue where artists, musicians, and locals to come to together to share their art and enjoy a cozy night surrounded by supportive strangers.
As you step onto the patio, the scene is set with twinkling fairy lights strung overhead, casting a soft glow over the green and white chairs, tables, and picnic benches. A wooden platform serves as the stage and is lit with a spotlight to focus the attention onto artists. Surrounding the patio, there are plants everywhere and a neon lit sign reads ‘Live Tingly,’ a playful nod to both the night vibe and the bar’s signature drink: Kava.
Kava, the star of the drink menu, is a traditional beverage from the South Pacific and Hawaii, made from the root of the kava plant. A 3,000-year tradition, islanders have consumed it both socially and ceremonially for it’s calming and “happy” effects. It’s often described as coffee’s sister but for relaxation instead of stimulation. The drink delivers a warm, tingly sensation.
Owner Hannah Wilen opened Kavahana in the early spring of this year to offer Angelenos an alternative social space on the West Side. “I’ve been drinking kava for over 10 years- it’s helped with a lot in social situations. I wanted something besides alcohol for people to enjoy in LA,” says Hannah. She noticed the limited nightlife and artistic spaces in the area and created Kavahana as a solution. “Open mic night is an amazing blend of people sharing their art- guitarists, singers, aspiring pop stars- and it all fits with the communal spirit of kava.”
At Kavahana, performers don’t need to buy a ticket; they just need to grab a drink. As Guests sip their Kava, they settle into the cozy atmosphere. Chatting with friends and waiting for the next performer to take the stage. The shared experience of sipping kava and enjoying live music seems to set the tone for the night, creating an easy-going, open environment where both artists and listeners feel connected.
Inside, the bar mirrors the outdoor space, with it’s green and white color scheme, comfortable couches, and soft disco lights, where people lounge around striking up conversations with old friends and new ones. It’s clear that many performers are regulars, coming back week after week to not only share their art but also reconnect with the tight-knit community that’s formed around this weekly event.
“The vibes are immaculate, always,” Says Joshua Turner, 28 who joined Kavahana as a “Necturista” in March of this year. “People come in to feel the calmness and clarity form the kava, but what keeps them coming back is the heart we put into sharing this ancient drink.” Joshua takes pride in introducing new faces to the experience and loves the supportive atmosphere. “Open mic nights are amazing; there’s a sense of camaraderie among the musicians.”
As the night goes on, one artist strums his acoustic guitar and whistles his song, another shares her lo-fi rap. There’s a mix of nerves, excitement, and support in the air, with each artist met with applause.
Some guests bring blankets, settling in for the night on the patio, while others casually chat between sets, kava in hand, soaking in the music. Employees from the bar deliver drinks to guests and keep the coming while they enjoy the music and company.
Open Mic at Kavahana is more than just a local artist show, it’s a place that has created a sense of belonging and where people can share their passion for their craft. Performers come back not just for the chance to share their talent, but for the community that’s formed around this small, welcoming space.
“The first night I went, I knew I had to come back every week. Everyone’s so nice. And the host, Angel, is amazing. The support and talent here are just incredible,” Says 23-year-old Amy Julia Rose, a recent graduate from the Stella Adler Academy of Acting. Amy was looking to share her music publicly and found Kavahana’s open mic on Instagram. As an international student from Canada, Amy faces restrictions that prevent her from performing music for pay. “This is how I can get heard and share my art in a non-judgmental space. I’m so glad I found it.”
By the end of the night, new friendships have been made, and the regulars are already talking about their ideas for next week’s music. As the lights dim and people begin to break down the setup, the warm vibe from the bar continues into the night.
