Shanti Kava: Transforming Social Spaces with Wellness and Connection

NATIONWIDE - NOVEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) — In a world where socializing often revolves around alcohol, Shanti Kava in St. Augustine, Florida, is offering a refreshing change. Instead of the usual bar scene, this unique botanical lounge provides a peaceful, alcohol-free environment where people come together to relax, recharge, and connect over traditional kava, botanicals, and nourishing bites. Shanti Kava isn’t just about the drinks,  it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, tranquility, and wellness in a community-centered space.

Shanti Kava’s founder, Dr. Denise Cooke, envisioned a space that went beyond the typical social setting. As a naturopath, wellness entrepreneur, and transformation coach, Dr. Cooke’s mission is clear: to create a space where people could find connection, healing, and respite from the stresses of modern life. And from this vision, Shanti Kava was born.

A Personal Journey of Transformation

Dr. Denise Cooke’s path to founding Shanti Kava was shaped by her own experiences with health challenges and the power of holistic healing. After years of battling illness and seeking conventional medical solutions, Denise turned to naturopathy and alternative practices to restore her health. It was through this journey of recovery that she discovered the profound impact of natural remedies like kava,  and realized that this could be the key to creating a space where others could find similar healing.

But Denise’s vision was not just about wellness through food and drink. It was about creating a lifestyle centered on connection and authenticity, where people could engage in meaningful conversations, unwind, and build relationships,  all in a non-alcoholic environment. Shanti Kava embodies her belief that the true essence of wellness lies not just in what we consume but in the people we connect with and the environment we surround ourselves with.

A New Approach to Socializing

Shanti Kava sets itself apart from the traditional bar or coffee shop by embracing a holistic, wellness-first approach to social spaces. From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll notice the difference. The space is designed to feel like a cozy lounge,  perfect for relaxing with friends, meeting new people, or spending a few quiet moments on your own. There’s no pressure to drink alcohol, and no rush to leave. The lounge’s inviting atmosphere encourages you to slow down, savor your drink, and stay awhile.

The drink menu at Shanti Kava is a celebration of nature’s offerings. Kava, a calming beverage that has been used in the South Pacific for centuries, takes center stage. But the menu doesn’t stop there. Guests can enjoy a variety of botanicals, teas, and coffee options, each selected for their soothing and health-promoting qualities. Whether you're a kava enthusiast or a newcomer curious about its benefits, Shanti Kava welcomes all to explore the healing properties of botanicals.

More Than Just a Drink: It’s a Community

At Shanti Kava, the experience is about more than just sipping on a drink. It’s about creating an environment where individuals can connect on a deeper level. Whether it’s through meaningful conversation, attending a weekly event, or simply finding a moment of peace in a busy day, Shanti Kava is all about fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Denise Cooke’s commitment to creating a welcoming space is evident in every aspect of the lounge. Shanti Kava is not a place to just grab a quick drink and go. It’s designed to be a “third place,” a space between work and home where people can come together and build lasting relationships. Regular events at the lounge give guests the opportunity to meet others, share experiences, and participate in activities that promote wellness and personal growth.

Whether you're recovering from an illness, seeking a sober alternative to traditional social spaces, or simply looking to connect with others in a calming atmosphere, Shanti Kava is here to offer you a place to belong.

The Wellness Revolution: Shanti Kava’s Impact

What makes Shanti Kava stand out in St. Augustine is its unwavering commitment to wellness. Unlike many bars or nightclubs that focus on alcohol as a social lubricant, Shanti Kava puts wellness at the forefront. From the ingredients used in its drinks to the emphasis on sustainability, every detail of the lounge is designed with health and well-being in mind.

The commitment to sustainability is also evident in the way Shanti Kava sources its ingredients. The team carefully selects botanicals and kava that support both personal and environmental health, ensuring that guests can feel good about their choices while enjoying their drinks. It’s an important part of the lounge’s mission: to provide a space where people can take care of their bodies, minds, and the planet.

Denise’s vision goes beyond the four walls of the lounge. Through Shanti Kava, she’s created a movement focused on holistic wellness, mindful socializing, and community connection. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a regular visitor, Shanti Kava encourages you to slow down, take a breath, and experience the healing power of community and natural remedies.

A Welcoming Space for All

Shanti Kava is a welcoming space for anyone looking to embrace a gentler, more intentional way of socializing. Whether you’re sober-curious, in recovery, or simply looking for a mindful, alcohol-free place to relax, the lounge offers a haven where guests can unwind and recharge. The emphasis on community, connection, and wellness creates a truly unique experience that stands apart from the traditional nightlife scene.

Shanti Kava is more than just a place to grab a drink,  it’s a sanctuary for those who value peace, connection, and holistic well-being. Denise Cooke’s dedication to her vision of a mindful, alcohol-free social space is helping to redefine the way people experience wellness, and the impact of Shanti Kava is already being felt in St. Augustine.

Join the Shanti Kava Community Today

If you’re ready to experience the calming effects of kava and botanical drinks in a peaceful, community-centered environment, Shanti Kava invites you to visit their lounge in St. Augustine. Whether you're looking to relax, meet like-minded individuals, or simply enjoy a mindful drink, Shanti Kava is here to offer a space for wellness and connection.

Visit Shanti Kava at 525 FL-16 Suite 130, St. Augustine, FL 32084, or check out their website at www.shantikava.com to learn more about their menu, events, and wellness offerings. Follow @ShantiKava on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest happenings.