A new establishment in Columbus is presenting a non-alcoholic option in a laid-back setting, designed to foster a sense of community among its patrons. Deep Roots Kava Bar, located at 2505 Airport Thruway, was co-founded by Dylan Heidrich, a California native who relocated to Columbus at the age of seven and is a graduate of Northside High School.
Heidrich encountered kava bars during his college years and quickly became enamored with their welcoming atmosphere. “I instantly fell in love because they’re welcoming places,” he shared with the Ledger-Enquirer. “Everyone’s expected to ask you how you’re doing and get to know you. You meet all kinds of people from all walks of life.” The bar held its soft opening last month, with its official launch taking place on August 2.
Deep Roots Kava Bar, which is located at 2505 Airport Thruway, Suite K, boasts an inviting interior featuring plush couches, armchairs, books, and a chessboard, with a table tennis area that can double as a small pool table. The décor reflects an island theme, highlighted by vibrant countertops, wall art, and wicker seating. An aquarium towards the back of the bar contains a friendly clownfish along with various marine life such as snails and shrimp.
The name of the bar, as explained by Heidrich, was chosen to reflect the origins of kava. By incorporating the word “roots,” the bar distinguishes itself from coffee shops and similarly named eateries. “When you have a root in the name, it shows people that this is the kava root tea and not something else,” Heidrich noted. “And we went with Deep Roots because we want to form deep roots in the community. We want this to be a place where people of all walks of life come together, get to know each other and establish roots.”
Understanding Kava
Kava is a beverage derived from the roots of the kava plant, as Heidrich elaborated. The first kava bar opened in Florida around two decades ago, and they have since proliferated in major cities across the country. The kava served at Deep Roots is primarily sourced from Vanuatu, which Heidrich describes as the “birthplace of kava.” He also mentioned Fiji and the Solomon Islands as notable producers. “Fiji’s kava, which also is available at Deep Roots, is the ‘smoother, best-tasting kava,’” he explained, although its effects are milder. Conversely, the kava from the Solomon Islands is stronger but has a more peppery and earthy flavor. Heidrich stated that the Vanuatuan kava strikes a balance, being both potent and palatable.
Traditional kava is traditionally served in a large wooden bowl called a tanoa, which is supported by four legs. Friends share the drink using a serving spoon. “Everyone drinks their kava together,” Heidrich said, adding that they toast with “Bula,” a term that signifies life or prosperity, akin to saying, “Cheers.” Deep Roots offers traditional kava served in smaller shells, along with a range of mocktails, shots, teas, and coffee, but does not serve any alcoholic beverages.
Kava as an Alcohol Alternative
Kava has been a suitable alternative for Heidrich, who candidly shared his previous struggles with alcohol during college. “I would drink multiple times a week,” he admitted. “… I wanted to be part of a social environment without the alcohol. Kava bars provide a safer, healthier alternative for people who want to still have a good time and relax a little bit.” Heidrich also pointed out that kava bars can be beneficial for introverts seeking a comfortable space to unwind, allowing them to socialize without the pressures often associated with alcohol consumption.
The Effects of Kava
Heidrich described kava as a distinctive drink, making it challenging to compare for those unfamiliar with its flavor. He likens its effects to that of coffee, as it can create a social and invigorating ambiance. “You’re in a mood where you would like to talk,” he noted. “You can think clearly, but you’re just more relaxed.” He further explained that kava exhibits “reverse tolerance,” meaning that some individuals may not feel its effects during their first few experiences. For newcomers, Heidrich recommends starting with a single kava shell containing instant kava for quicker results.
While the effects of kava do not directly impact the brain, Heidrich reassured that the drink is not habit-forming. “From the last 12 years of going to kava bars, reading books and going to Vanuatu,” he stated, “I would say it’s almost impossible to have a habit formed from drinking kava.” Another product available at Deep Roots is kratom, derived from the leaves of a tropical tree in the coffee family. Heidrich acknowledged that some online sources claim kratom can be highly addictive and may contain heavy metals, but he noted that this is primarily related to kratom extracts. He stressed that the natural kratom leaf has been consumed for centuries in Southeast Asia, serving as their equivalent of coffee, providing motivation, energy, and natural pain relief.
Health Considerations
Heidrich clarified that kava should not be viewed as a health drink, particularly in excessive quantities, as it can pose risks to liver health. “I would say that having one kava shell would be, maybe, equivalent to having one glass of red wine,” he indicated. He advised that pregnant individuals should limit their kava intake to small amounts. While instances of liver injury related to kava consumption are rare, the National Institutes of Health has cautioned against combining kava with other sedative substances, and it may pose specific risks for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Heidrich expressed his aspiration for Deep Roots to cultivate the communal environment he experienced in other kava bars. “I’m very grateful to have the first kava bar in Columbus,” he remarked. “I think it’s just a matter of time before more people try kava and natural kratom tea, learn what it does, experience the benefits of what these drinks offer and get to know people in the community that they otherwise might not ever meet.”
