We could all use a little something to help us relax these days, am I right? But maybe alcohol isn’t your thing. A new kind of bar, set to open this summer in Durham, offers an alternative: Da Kine’s Kava will act as a non-alcoholic bar, featuring cocktails made from kava and other herbal alternatives, coffee, kombucha, and teas.
Kava is a drink made from the roots of a tropical shrub, and when consumed, it can naturally help to relieve stress and anxiety. Kava is becoming more popular in the US as an alternative to alcohol as it acts similarly to “take the edge off” without many of the negative side effects (no hangovers!)
Zoey Best, a Durham native and Duke graduate, will be opening Da Kine’s Kava with her husband, Brent Waffle, in the space formerly occupied by Joe Van Gogh at 1114-B W. Chapel Hill St. (next to Local Yogurt). Brent and Zoey were introduced to kava while living in Hawaii and have always been drawn to the “aloha mentality” of kindness, support, and acceptance. They hope to promote and share these values within the community in Durham.
In the Q&A below, we asked Zoey about plans for Da Kine’s shop, menu, and opening (in the middle of the pandemic).
What was the inspiration for Da Kine’s Kava Bar?
Zoey: Da Kine is a Hawaiian Pidgin term that means anything or anyone, and we designed Da Kine’s Kava to be a subtle, natural stress-reliever for anyone and everyone to enjoy. We started selling our bottled kava while we built up momentum and developed our concept, and now we are opening our physical space to offer a peaceful, alcohol-free alternative to the typical cocktail bar.
Why did you choose (and what do you like) about the location?
Zoey: Finding the location was a little bit of kismet. I actually used to live in this neighborhood with my brother, so we were extremely excited when the space became available. We absolutely adore how much natural light it has, and the two giant garage doors make it so that we can practically open up an entire wall! It’s going to be perfect for summer, and also very helpful considering Covid-19 regulations. We almost have as much outdoor space as indoor!
What will the interior vibe be like?
Zoey: We are still building out our interior, but we are shooting for a casual tropical vibe. Not so much cheesy tiki bar, but more relaxed “island vacation.” We are building an awesome bar to be our focal point, but we’ll also be sure to include a large communal table and a cozy couch or two.
Tell us about your signature drinks and menu.
Zoey: Our menu will consist of completely non-alcoholic drinks, including coffee, kombucha, herbal teas, and a few light snacks. Our main menu item is obviously kava, and we will have it bottled (our existing product), mixed into delicious mocktails, and even in its authentic traditional form, which gives awesome effects, but is not for the faint of heart.
Are these drinks to be enjoyed any time of day?
Zoey: The great thing about kava is that it can be consumed all times of the day! Just a little bit helps take the edge off and can be a great start to your day, and drinking more can help relax and calm you, which can be great for the evening.
What are the main things to check off the list before opening and when is your anticipated opening date?
Zoey: Right now, the primary thing that needs to happen for us to be able to open is the finishing of our centerpiece: the actual bar! We are still getting estimates from our millworkers, but once we know that we will be able to provide a much more solid opening date. We are hoping for late June 2020, but it may be closer to early July.
In what capacity do you plan to open during Covid-19?
Zoey: Rather than having a “Grand Opening” we are actually planning to have a “Half-Ass Opening!” We are still working out the exact details (again, depending on construction), but to start off, we will most likely open up the garage doors and primarily focus on the outdoor seating/takeout options. The bar we are building will back right up to the garage door so with the doors open people will be able to walk up and order at the bar with very minimal contact. Of course, we will be sure that we are in full compliance with the governor’s Phase 2 reopening plan.
To start off, we are thinking hours will be 12-8pm, but as the pandemic starts to pass, we will start opening earlier and staying open later. All of our drinks can be made to-go, and we will also have our bottled kava, which is great for grab and go.Photos Courtesy of Da Kine’s Kava
Leave a Reply