Chris Jepson is shaking up the bar scene with alcohol-free cocktails made with kava and kratom at Elixir Lounge in Old Town Spring.

Founded on Aug. 30, 2022, to offer a vibrant alternative to the traditional bar scene, Elixir Lounge offers a place full of energy and connection without the presence of alcohol.

“As more people seek alcohol-free social spaces, I saw a real need for a welcoming environment where anyone, regardless of whether they drink, can come together to unwind, connect and belong,” Jepson said.

How it started

Jepson said his journey in the kratom and kava industry began long before opening Elixir Lounge.


“I’ve been a trusted supplier in the kratom and kava industry, working with over 65 kava bars across the country,” Jepson said. “I’ve personally visited more than 150 kava bars throughout the U.S., taking note of the best decor, activities and menu offerings.”
Elixir Lounge is owned by Chris Japson and operated by Cassandra Abrecombie. (Courtesy Elixir Lounge)
Elixir Lounge is owned by Chris Jepson and operated by Cassandra Abercrombie. (Courtesy Elixir Lounge)
As one of the few kava bars in Texas, Elixir Lounge strives to be the space that reflects the heart and soul of the kava movement, Jepson said.

“Florida has long been the epicenter of the kava bar movement, and one of my close friends, who is French Polynesian, helped bring the cultural traditions of kava ceremonies from Vanuatu and Fiji to the U.S.,” Jepson said. “His influence helped shape what kava culture looks like today, and that spirit lives on here at Elixir Lounge.”

What’s special about it?

At Elixir Lounge, customers 18 and up are served a variety of kava and kratom drinks, made from diffused kava roots and kratom leaves.


Cassandra Abercrombie, manager at Elixir Lounge, said kava is known for its calming and relaxing effects while kratom stimulates energy. Sourced from the Polynesian islands, Abercrombie said drinks and ingredients sold at Elixir Lounge are bought from trusted suppliers including top farms across the South Pacific, including Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands.

“I’ve traveled to Indonesia 19 times, working directly with indigenous communities to harvest wild kratom leaves, replant old palm oil plantations with kratom trees, and help generate sustainable income for remote villages,” Jepson said.
Located in Old Town Spring, Elixir Lounge often collaborates with neighboring businesses to hold community events. (Jovanna Aguilar/Community Impact)
Located in Old Town Spring, Elixir Lounge often collaborates with neighboring businesses to hold community events. (Jovanna Aguilar/Community Impact)
With several drinks offered, each offering its own unique character and calming effect, Abercrombie said some customer favorites include the Piña Colada, served as a virgin drink or with kava, as well as the Mojo-jito.

The lively atmosphere is enhanced with several community events including drag bingo, live music, trivia and karaoke.

“What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built. Like many kava bars I’ve visited, we’ve developed our own tribe, a close-knit group of friends who come together to share stories, laughter and life. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a regular, I do my best to personally welcome everyone. When you walk through our doors, you’re not just a customer—you’re family,” Jepson said.