Kanaka Kava

Fresh Hawaiian ‘awa (kava), great food, steps from the ocean. My favorite is the poke. If you’re not a kava drinker, the jun (like kombucha but lighter, made with green tea and honey) is great too

Lives up to the name in every way. Aloha and talk story vibez, very respectful staff... mostly it was just super chill and I talked it up with the bartender who was happy to share comments about the traditional Hawaiian weaponry on display, which I highly appreciated, as a collector. Definitely just a great place to stop by to add to your relaxation, and feel some local inspiration.

We were here after sunrise on Dec 26th . OUR order : Local Hawaiian Awa Chicken and butterfish lau lau Sweet potato in coconut milk appetizer Awa ( Hawaiian Cava)- was unique, it is made from the root of pepper plant . It is an acquired taste , so very glad we tried it. We drank our bowl. CHICKEN LAU LAU- the greens , Butterfield combo was great. Kimchi being a good accompaniment. This was a good satisfying bowl of food. Comes with - purple sweet potato, greens butter fish n chicken, 2 balls of rice topped with furikake, kimchi. Sweet potato in coconut milk- this was a disappointment. We couldn't eat it. The root veggie was bland, the coconut milk was not seasoned. I had eaten something similar to this in a luau with coconut cream and loved it. This dish here was sub par.

Kanaka Kava is such a unique, laid-back spot with authentic island vibes. We stopped in to try the kava, and it was a really cool, grounding experience—smooth, earthy, and served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. The atmosphere is calm, traditional, and perfect for slowing down and soaking in the local culture. It’s not your typical bar scene, which makes it even more special. Great place to unwind, connect, and experience something truly local. If you’re curious about kava or want a chill, no-rush hangout, this spot is worth checking out 🌺🍵

Stopped by on my last day to get some kava. Loved the atmosphere and the people.Felt welcomed and taken care of. Was truly a great place to be and immerse yourself into the cultural aspects of Hawai’i through kava. Mahalo Nui.

Great little corner with amazing kava and tasty local plates. We tried the lau lau, kalua pork, kalo and the freshest poi we've had on the islands! Everything was delicious. It's a must try if you're on Kona side!

Great spot to chill and talk story. The kava is good and the environment is comfortable. Everyone here likes to talk story. Every time we come we find out new things and meet new people and see regulars return and say hi. Love this spot.

03.17.3024 celebrated our St Patty's anniversary with the idea of eating traditional Hawaiian food. The hostess was very nice and knowledgeable. We ordered and love the Pupu with a side order of Jasmine rice with furikake and drinks of gingerade for me and kava for my hubby. The Pupu came in a beautiful dish and enough for two to share. The gentleman who delivered our food was great as he patiently explained each dish. The open outdoor eating area was wonderful. Will definitely be back to try other dishes.

If I went there for the kava alone, I would have given 3 stars. The "potent" kava was not so potent and barely did anything to relax any of us. We bought one bowl and shared it between 4 people. I don't mind the taste, but keep in mind it that it tastes like dirt water. The kalua pig was good and cooked just right. The garlic bread didn't have much flavor.

Wow this was delicious! You get a chance to try unique Hawaiian foods and drinks here. The people were helpful and friendly and the place had a good atmosphere at night. The pork was amazing and as promised the kava made me feel relaxed and slept great afterwards. Don’t listen to the reviews that aren’t willing to try new and unique foods and experiences.