In today’s hospitality scene, a space is no longer just a backdrop — it becomes part of the experience, an extension of the owners’ energy, and a reflection of the values they wish to share with the community. In the case of the newly opened Kayf Kava Bar in Miami, founded by visionaries Iliya and Danil, the space itself is a bold artistic statement. Wanting to create an atmosphere that inspires, heals, and energizes, they entrusted the walls to artist Gordana, whose mural now draws as much attention as the bar’s one-of-a-kind offerings.
Ilija, how did you come up with the idea to open a Kayf Kava Bar?
I became a kratom enthusiast — it helped me stay away from other substances that used to be part of my life. One day, I was sitting in a kava bar with a friend, and he kept going on about how easy it would be to open one. I told him, “I admire people who come up with ideas and don’t just talk — they actually follow through.” I challenged him to start writing a business plan while I was busy running my moving company during the peak season. Six months went by, and he hadn’t done anything. So I revisited the idea — and brought it to life myself. I didn’t open this bar just to start another business. I wanted to create something with real meaning — a space where people could relax, connect, and heal. Part of my motivation was to support those in recovery from alcohol and other substances. I wanted to offer a social, welcoming environment that wasn’t centred around drinking — a place where people could still feel joy, fun, and a sense of belonging without the pressure of alcohol. From the beginning, I knew I didn’t want to create just another dark, moody, “witchy” café like so many cookie-cutter concepts popping up everywhere — those that look like they were all generated by a ChatGPT template. I wanted something that felt real and warm — like a cozy living room with an artistic soul. A place where you can connect with your spiritual side, come to meditate, breathe, and fully drop into your zen. Whether you’re coming to unwind, create, connect, or just enjoy something truly unique — this bar was designed to make you feel at home.
My partner, Danil, is a former professional hockey player from Belarus, whom I met through the moving business. I was drawn to his work ethic, dedication, drive, and — most importantly — his integrity.
My name is Danil Kharnitski. I’ve been playing hockey for over 30 years — I played for Belarusian clubs and the national team. Now, together with my friend Ilija Bentsis, we’ve opened a new business: Kaif Café & Hookah Lounge — a fresh new spot for young people in North Miami. If you’re looking for a stylish, atmospheric, and truly cool place to unwind after school or work, meet new people, or simply relax — then you’re definitely in the right place at Kayf Kava Bar & Hookah Lounge. From the very first step inside, you realize: Kayf is not just a lounge. It’s a space that combines modern design, a unique aesthetic, and attention to every single detail. The interior is a story of its own — sleek minimalism, soft lighting, neon accents, and cozy lounge areas that make you want to stay. Kayf Kava Bar & Hookah Lounge is already becoming a popular hangout for young people from all over North Miami. Creative, stylish, and open-minded individuals gather here to chat, play games, listen to music, and simply enjoy themselves. And if you haven’t been here yet — now is the perfect time to discover this new place.
Address:17010 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
Why did you choose Gordana for this project?
Iliya:
I was in charge of the architectural design and had a few ideas of what I wanted. But Gordana brought all of it to life — and made it a million times better than I had imagined.
Gordana has that rare ability to convey emotion through color. Her work is not only visually striking, but also deeply thoughtful. From the very first meeting, we could tell she understood the spirit of the space — we didn’t need to explain much. She simply felt what we wanted. Her energy and dedication won us over. She approached every detail with passion — no templates, no formulas — guided only by intuition and the space itself. And you can feel that in every brushstroke. The mural became the heart of the restaurant. To us, the mural is a reminder that it’s worth the effort to make a space authentic. People today are looking for feeling, for atmosphere. And that’s what we offer — through color, through messages, through art. The atmosphere is truly different. People take photos, they comment on the messages, they come back and bring friends. That means so much to us. The mural has become a point of recognition. Art doesn’t need to be separated from everyday life. When it’s authentic and sincere, it elevates everything — from the space itself to the relationships between people. We’re proud that our restaurant now breathes through art, and we’re deeply grateful to Gordana for helping us make that a reality.
Gordana set the standard. Art is no longer just decoration — it’s identity.
We spoke with Gordana about her creative process and the meaning behind every brushstroke.
How did the collaboration with this restaurant come about?
The collaboration started spontaneously, through conversations with the owners, who wanted their space to have an identity that would be remembered — something that wasn’t just beautiful at first glance, but something that would linger in the emotions and memories of their visitors. When they told me they wanted “walls that speak,” I immediately felt that we shared the same vision. They gave me their trust and the freedom to create something honest and powerful — and that was the key. This mural is full of meaning, and that’s no coincidence. Messages like “Love is the answer,” “Believe in your dreams,” and “Find your Kayf” aren’t just there to fill space — they’re a call to awaken. They’re meant to go beneath the surface and leave a mark. The women I painted represent strength, sensitivity, and the freedom of self-expression. Their gaze doesn’t demand attention — it invites dialogue. The plants winding through the walls symbolize growth and life force.
I’m truly glad I met Iliya and Danil — they are young, honest, intelligent, hardworking, and kind people. That’s why I believe this business of theirs will be successful and long-lasting.
Svet Australia
