The world of coffee is constantly evolving, and one of the most talked-about trends is mushroom coffee. This beverage blends traditional coffee with extracts from functional mushrooms, such as lion's mane and chaga, promising enhanced focus, sustained energy without the jitters, and other wellness benefits. It's become increasingly popular, moving from niche health stores to mainstream shelves. Recognizing this surge in interest, WIRED conducted extensive taste tests in 2025 to evaluate the most popular brands, focusing primarily on a crucial factor for any coffee alternative: palatability. Their findings offer valuable insights for anyone curious about making the switch or simply trying this unique brew.
The appeal of mushroom coffee often lies in the purported benefits of the fungi used. Proponents suggest that varieties like Lion's Mane can support cognitive function, while Chaga is often associated with immune support and antioxidants. Brands typically use extracts of these mushrooms, blending them with ground or instant coffee. The goal is often to provide the familiar ritual and energy boost of coffee while mitigating some potential downsides, like anxiety or stomach upset, and adding the functional properties of the mushrooms. However, incorporating earthy-tasting mushrooms into coffee without compromising flavor presents a significant challenge for manufacturers.
WIRED's testing methodology centered on the sensory experience – essentially, how good do these mushroom coffees actually taste? While health claims are a major marketing point, if the beverage isn't enjoyable, it's unlikely to replace a daily coffee habit. The review team sampled numerous brands, assessing factors like aroma, flavor profile, mouthfeel, and how well the mushroom taste was integrated or masked. They sought to determine which brands succeeded in creating a beverage that was not just tolerable, but genuinely pleasant to drink, comparing them implicitly and explicitly to traditional coffee expectations.
The results highlighted a diverse landscape of flavors. Some mushroom coffees managed to taste remarkably similar to regular coffee, with only subtle earthy undertones, while others possessed a more distinct, sometimes polarizing, fungal note. The type of mushroom used significantly influenced the final taste profile. Common mushrooms featured in these blends include:
- Lion's Mane: Often chosen for cognitive benefits, generally milder in flavor.
- Chaga: Known for antioxidants, can have a stronger, more bitter taste.
- Reishi: Associated with stress reduction, often has a distinct bitterness.
- Cordyceps: Linked to energy and athletic performance, flavor varies.
The quality of the base coffee beans and the extraction methods used for the mushrooms also played crucial roles in the overall palatability identified in the WIRED review.
Ultimately, taste remains subjective, but the WIRED review serves as a helpful guide through the burgeoning market of mushroom coffee. It underscores that while the functional benefits are attractive, finding a brand whose flavor profile aligns with individual preference is paramount. The testing revealed that achieving a balanced, enjoyable cup that successfully incorporates mushroom extracts is possible, though experiences vary widely across different products. For consumers intrigued by the potential wellness advantages, this review offers a practical starting point by focusing on the fundamental aspect of taste, helping narrow down the options in this increasingly crowded field.
