We really enjoy visiting Hot Wax Kava Bar & Smoke Shop on Dale Mabry! The staff is absolutely amazing, and their kava, kratom, and coffee creations are delicious. The atmosphere is fun, cozy, laid-back, and welcoming, with a great group of people who come in and make it feel like a little community. I personally don’t smoke, but that hasn’t affected my experience there at all. I’ve seen some negative reviews mentioning rude staff and horrible drinks, but honestly, that has not been my experience whatsoever. Everyone we’ve encountered has been friendly, and we’ve really enjoyed everything we’ve tried. We especially enjoy the Arts & Crafts Night hosted by Darq Devotion. It’s a fun way to get creative, meet people, and enjoy a relaxed evening. If you’re looking for a fancy, bougie place, this probably isn’t it—and that’s exactly what I like about it. If you’re looking for a cool, laid-back, chill place with good people, good drinks, and a relaxed vibe, this is definitely the kind of place to check out! We’ll definitely be back.

I’ve been coming to Hot Wax for a few years now, to say I love this place is an understatement!! I’ve been to many kava bars but this one is my favorite one close to me. The quality of the kava and kratom is the best for the price that you can get in South Tampa - specifically the premium kratom will knock your socks off. It has a light earthy taste with a tang and is very potent. There are many places to sit and there’s a very chill vibe, you can hang out by yourself or join in conversation at the bar. One of the most fun things here is their craft night, which is every Sunday - I pop in from time to time and it’s nice to be around like minded artsy people from all walks of life. I’m definitely nerdy so it’s a great time. I didn’t see many photos of their menu here, so went ahead and posted one. Special shoutout to Shane and Lilith!

I come here every Sunday for craft night. Staff is friendly and helpful. Drinks are super tasty. Ask for Lilith. Craft night is a Sunday favorite. They also have cool events like Nerdy nights.

I had a very bad experience at Hot Wax in Tampa and will not be returning. The customer service was extremely unprofessional and disrespectful. The employee with purple hair was rude from the moment I walked in. I forgot my ID, and instead of simply explaining the policy professionally, she told me I was “too young to do business with.” I explained that I am 22 years old, have my own place and vehicle, and even offered to show a picture of my ID until I could come back with the physical copy. When I returned later with my ID, the employee continued acting passive aggressive toward me. I politely explained that there’s a better way to speak to customers and handle situations like that without making disrespectful comments. What made the situation even worse was that a man I assume was the owner ran up to my car while I was leaving the parking lot and threw trash into my vehicle. After that, the employee came outside and told me not to come back. I understand businesses have ID policies, and I respect that completely. The issue was never the policy — it was the rude, discriminatory, and aggressive way I was treated as a paying customer. I would not recommend this place to anyone expecting professionalism or respectful customer service. very disgusting behavior i expect better especially because of the area we are in.

Fantastic environment with even better people and drinks. An amazing, inclusive space perfect for focusing on work or just enjoying the vibes.