We are a kava bar and café inspired by Polynesian and Fijian culture — a place where community comes before caffeine, and connection matters just as much as what's in your cup.
In 2021, before Bula Bar was even an idea, its roots were forming on the other side of the country. After moving from Washington to St. Petersburg, Florida, I found myself in a place that was both exciting and unfamiliar. I had never moved away from home before, and suddenly I was learning what it meant to start over — without a single friend, familiar face, or sense of belonging.
That changed the day I walked into a kava bar.
It wasn't the drink that caught my attention first; it was the people. My first visit happened to be Chess Night, where strangers sat down across from one another, made a move, laughed, competed, and talked like they had known each other for years. With every game, I started seeing the same faces. Soon, those faces had names. Those names became friends. And that little kava bar became my first community in a brand-new world.
The welcoming culture I experienced — one rooted in kindness, acceptance, and genuine connection — made my transition not only easier but unforgettable. That experience shaped me, and it inspired Bula Bar.
At its core, Bula Bar exists to create that same sense of belonging in our own community here in Washington. We believe that everyone deserves a place where they feel welcome the moment they walk in, no matter who they are or where they come from.
Bula Bar offers a social space that celebrates culture, promotes wellness, and provides connection — without the pressure of alcohol. We're here to give our community an alternative: a place where you can meet people, relax, stay sober, and still have fun morning, noon, and night.
We're built for people, relationships, and shared experiences.
Every person belongs here, and every story has a seat at the table.
Kava culture promotes balance, relaxation, and a mindful lifestyle.
We hope to strengthen the local community by offering young adults and families a new option beyond the bar scene — one that encourages connection without compromise.
We aim to celebrate the traditions of Polynesian and Fijian culture while helping more people discover what makes kava so meaningful: its power to bring people together.
Bula is a Fijian word meaning "good health." When we say Bula, we're not just cheering — we're wishing one another a life filled with wellness.
When we Bula with you, we're welcoming you the same way we were welcomed: with warmth, friendship, and an open seat. It's an invitation to build meaningful relationships and to be part of a community where connection happens naturally.
A place to gather. A place to stay awhile. A place to feel at home.