Alcohol-Free Bars near Denver: The Case for Kava
· 2 min read · By BulaBula
It's 8pm. You want to get out of the house, see people, maybe meet someone new. In most neighborhoods that leaves you two options: a bar, or a coffee shop that's about to close.
There's a third option now, and it's open until midnight.
The problem with "let's grab a drink"
Plenty of people are drinking less than they used to, or not at all. Some are sober. Some are training for something. Some just don't like how they feel the next morning.
None of that changes the wish to go somewhere. The trouble is that evening social life has been built around alcohol for so long that not drinking can mean not going out.
What a kava bar is
A kava bar looks and feels like a café crossed with a neighborhood pub. There's a bar with stools, a person behind it who knows the menu, and people talking. What's missing is the alcohol.
Instead, the menu is built on drinks that people have gathered around for centuries:
- Kava, a root drink from the Pacific Islands, described as calming and sociable.
- Kratom tea, a traditional leaf tea from Southeast Asia.
- Loose-leaf teas, tonics and coffee, for anyone who wants something familiar.
Kava and kratom are served to guests 21 and over.
What a night at BulaBula looks like
- Come after dinner. We're open 11am to midnight, seven days a week.
- Come alone. The bar is the heart of the room. Pull up a stool and you'll be talking to someone before long.
- Come with a group. Book club, game night, a catch-up with friends. If you'd like us to save you some room, email us.
- Come with a book or a laptop and take a corner for a few hours.
What to order if you've never been
- A shell of Waka Kava if you want to unwind and talk.
- A 12 oz House Brew if you're curious about kratom tea.
- An Adaptogen Latte or an Elderberry Tulsi Tonic if you'd rather ease in.
- A latte or a loose-leaf herbal tea if you just want a warm drink and good company.
Most drinks are $5 to $9. The full menu is online.
A word on doing it responsibly
Alcohol-free doesn't mean effect-free. Kava can make you drowsy, so don't drive if you feel it. Kratom can be habit-forming with frequent use. Neither should be mixed with alcohol, sedatives or other medication, and neither is for use during pregnancy. If it's your first time, tell us. We'll explain what to expect and help you start small.
Find us
BulaBula is at 195 S Union Blvd in Lakewood, just west of Denver. Plan your visit, and we'll save you a seat.
21+ for kava and kratom. Not for use during pregnancy or with alcohol or sedatives. Please drink responsibly. This article is general information, not medical advice. Our drinks are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.