Building Community Through Kava in Nashville: The Passage Kava Story

Hey, I’m Ryan Holding, the owner of Passage Kava Lounge in Nashville, TN. Opening a kava bar in a city where many people had never even heard of kava was a challenge, but I knew from the moment I first experienced kava that it was something truly special. Kava has this unique ability to bring people together and build real connections. When I first discovered it in Tampa, it wasn’t just about the drink — it was about the people and the sense of community that kava bars foster. That’s what I wanted to bring to Nashville: a place where people could gather, relax, and support each other’s journeys.

The space I chose used to be an old Kmart garden center — just four bare walls.

Starting with a blank slate gave me the freedom to design every detail, but it also came with the challenge of making everything fit into a tight budget. From plumbing to decor, each decision had to strike a balance between creativity and practicality. It was both exciting and stressful, but I was determined to create a space that felt both welcoming and unique.

Comfort was a top priority for me because kava bars are places where people often spend hours unwinding, talking, and connecting. I wanted to have a relaxed, inviting feel where guests could settle in for as long as they wanted. The Victorian-inspired design — with dark wood wainscoting, deep green walls, and cozy seating — was all chosen to create that warm, elegant atmosphere.

But more than just creating a beautiful space, Passage was always about building a community. I wanted it to be a place where people could come together, get creative, and make lasting connections. That’s why we host events like board game Sundays, karaoke nights, trivia, and Writers' Corner. It’s all about giving people a space to feel at home and connect with others.

The road to opening wasn’t easy, but the rewards have been incredible. We’ve only been open for two months, and we’ve already been featured in a pilot for a docuseries, and we recently won second place in "Best of Nashville’s" Best New Business award — a huge accomplishment, especially for a nonalcoholic bar in a city so driven by its alcohol scene. Seeing people connect with our space and our vision has been amazing, and it’s proof that kava has a special place in this community.

Before we opened our doors, I hosted kava parties at local events and venues to introduce people to this incredible drink. It was a way to plant the seeds for something bigger — to help people experience not only the calming effects of kava but also the uplifting, welcoming nature of the kava community.

Looking ahead, my goal is to keep growing this community. I would love to expand Passage Kava Lounge to other locations, creating even more spaces where people can come together, relax, and share meaningful experiences. But with growth, it’s important that we stay true to our mission. At the heart of every future location will be the same values that started it all: creating a welcoming environment, supporting each other’s journeys, and fostering real connections.

For me, it’s not just about opening more bars — it’s about growing the kava community in a way that stays authentic and uplifting. I can’t wait to see how Passage Kava Lounge continues to evolve, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.