Taco Bell has officially and finally brought back its fan-favorite menu item: the beloved quesarito (which is part quesadilla, part burrito, if you couldn’t have guessed yourself).

“We take a cheesy quesadilla and use it as the tortilla—then wrap it around seasoned beef, seasoned rice, Creamy Chipotle sauce, and reduced-fat sour cream and grill it to golden perfection,” Taco Bell states on its menu. 

You don’t even need to try it to know it’s delicious, though you definitely should.

The Story of the Beloved Quesarito

Now, let’s rewind a bit: the quesarito originally launched in 2014. You might remember the feud it sparked when ESPN accidentally aired the quesarito commercial during the 2014 NBA Draft. More on that later.

While it quickly gained massive popularity, the item was removed from the in-store menu during the pandemic, then fully discontinued in 2023. Why? Who TF knows, but fans were not happy. Some even created tributes and petitions for its return.

Perhaps that’s why, now two years later, it’s making its legendary comeback.

“We heard our fans loud and clear,” Luis Restrepo, Chief Marketing Officer at Taco Bell, said in a statement. “Their passion turned the Quesarito into a Taco Bell legend, and bringing it back for the holidays felt like the perfect way to celebrate that energy.”

Fans agreed, with many leaving comments on the chain’s Instagram announcement, which featured a photo of the food item and a caption: “ok u can stop commenting ‘bring the quesarito back’ now.”

“It’s a miracle,” one person wrote.

“This means so much to me,” added another.

“Best Christmas gift ever,” said a third. “I love you, Taco Bell.”

The item is back on the menu at participating locations for $4.99. But…there’s a catch: It’s back for a limited time only. You’d better go get your fix while you can.

Taco Bell and Nikola Jokić Feud

All this talk about the quesarito has fans nostalgic for the hilarious and iconic Taco Bell/Nikola Jokić feud of 2014. Remember earlier, when I mentioned ESPN’s accidental airing of Taco Bell’s quesarito commercial during the NBA Draft? Yeah, well, the advertisement played at the very moment Jokić’s name was announced as a draft pick by the Denver Nuggets. In other words, the half-quesadilla/half-burrito stole his spotlight. 

The Mexican-inspired chain has since apologized to Jokić, who jokingly claimed he never tried Taco Bell—and never would—because of the whole mishap. In fact, as part of their quesarito comeback announcement, they shared an Instagram Reel directed at the basketball star. 

“This video is for Nikola Jokić. If you’re not Nikola, keep scrolling,” the video states. “We’re sorry the quesarito hijacked your big moment in 2014. It’s coming back soon. Please give it a chance.”

Taco Bell didn’t stop there. To settle this decade-long beef, the chain filled the Denver Nuggets’ home arena with “GIVE THE QUESARITO A CHANCE” shirts.

“Do u think he’ll notice?” Taco Bell joked in the caption.

However, according to Taco Bell’s recent statement, Jokić declined the offer to try the popular menu item.

“No,” Jokić said. “It’s nice they’re finally apologizing. But no.”

Still, Restrepo paid his respect to the basketball center: “As for the moment that helped keep its story alive—Jokić, we hope there are no hard feelings.”

The post This Christmas, You Can ‘Live Más’ With Taco Bell’s Return of the Quesarito appeared first on VICE.

When he’s not on the road, Rossdale’s appetite for exploration doesn’t dissipate. He has his own cooking show, Dinner with Gavin Rossdale, which debuted earlier this year, where he cooks at his home while in conversation with guests such as Serena Williams, Selma Blair, Common, Brooke Shields, and Tom Jones, among many others.

With another year of touring in the books, we asked Rossdale to share his favorite places he’s eaten at while on tour, and here’s what he had to say.

1. Alinea — Chicago

I first brought my band here to eat a few years ago. I had booked a table six months in advance, as I had seen we had a night off in Chicago. That is when I met Grant Achatz, who became one of my closest friends. His food is from another dimension. I’m not really a tasting-menu person at all. I prefer tasting the whole menu in more traditional ways, but Alinea is on a sparsely populated planet of food, full of performance, invention, and flavor. It’s an experience. We go whenever we can! And I was so sad to miss Alinea in Tokyo — there was just too much touring!

2. Boragó — Santiago, Chile

We had a night off in Chile. I had met Chef Rodolfo at a food event presented by Chef Dominique Crenn a few years ago. Rodolfo had traveled from Chile for this event. We connected over food and music. He came to our show in Santiago, and we had one of the best meals I’ve ever experienced: the seaweed preparations, the largest tomato I’ve ever seen, and firewood-grilled lamb that was the best I have ever tasted.

3. E Baldi — Los Angeles

Chef Edo — this is home. This is my family and me. The most precious memories are made here.

4. Atelier Crenn — San Francisco

Chef Dom is a force of nature. Somehow, I have spent more time with her in Cabo than anywhere else. But when in San Fran, we love to go here. The food, like Chef Dom, is playful, bright, and delicious — it’s a factual reflection of her: light, effortlessly gorgeous, but packed with flavor.

5. Asanebo — Los Angeles

Japanese food is the best. So clean. So simply complex. We are so lucky to count Asanebo as a local spot. So many dinners there. Always leave happy, nourished, and fulfilled. Swaaaq.

6. Audrey — Nashville

Chef Sean Brock is the king of the Appalachian Mountains. His staggering three-restaurant building, which includes a research and development kitchen and a staff decompression room, is a state-of-the-art elegy to fine dining — JUNE.

Exemplary Southern food — AUDREY.
His food is a walk through the history of Appalachian and Southern food, AKA the most thoroughly researched food imaginable.
A king of taste.

We were so thrilled that Chef Sean and his wife Adi came to our show at the Ryman. I think we had Joyland burgers that night after the show — also mad delicious.

7. Kronenhalle — Zurich

Ten weeks in Europe was a thrill on the food front. I love going as local as possible. When in Zurich, this is the place to go. Superb classics. Swiss service. Dreamy food. Enjoy.

8. Dom – São Paulo

Chef Alex Atala is the cool punk who turned to cooking and representing the Amazon and its exotic culture. His restaurant is in São Paulo. I had a great lunch there.

The post Gavin Rossdale Told Us His 8 Favorite Restaurants in the World appeared first on VICE.

The shoes were created with custom sneaker artist Mache (Dan Gamache) and lean hard into diner fandom. Think: glossy syrup-brown panels, blinding yellow accents, and that Denny’s branding stamped quite proudly on the heel. The syrup is permanently sealed (so no, do not drink it, no matter how curious you feel).

Denny’s has openly admitted the shoes are impractical, unnecessary, and wildly over the top, which is exactly why you might want a pair. This isn’t about comfort. It’s about turning late-night pancakes and sticky tables into a physical object you can lace up… And maybe resale value.

If you want a pair, the Denny’s Sticky Kicks drop today, December 17 (also National Maple Syrup Day) at 12 p.m. ET, exclusively on DinerDrip.com. They’re priced around $195, and are extremely limited, and likely to sell out fast.

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Denny's Sticky Kicks (opens in a new window)

Available at DineDrip.com

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If you don’t want sneakers with syrup in it, you may prefer one of these other novelty footwear that are just as loud, and just as fun:

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Kurt Geiger London Kurt Runner Sneaker (opens in a new window)

$118 at Kurt Geiger

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Nike Air Max Grateful Dead University of Oregon Grateful Ducks (opens in a new window)

$178 at StockX

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Nike CPFM Flea 1 Cactus Plant Flea Market Overgrown (opens in a new window)

$359 at StockX

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The post Denny’s Sticky Kicks Are Real, Syrup-Filled, and Can Be Yours appeared first on VICE.

What is North Spore Drinking Chocolate with Functional Mushrooms?  

North Spore’s Drinking Chocolate with Functional Mushrooms didn’t start in the kitchen like so many other functional mushroom drinks. The Maine-based company was founded by three college friends who wanted to make mushroom growing more accessible, sustainable, and science-driven. They’ve gotten coverage for their commitment to organic practices and teaching and investing in the next generation of mycologists. 

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North Spore Drinking Chocolate With Functional Mushrooms (opens in a new window)

$30 at North Spore

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The result is a company equally known for its grow kits as it is for mushroom coffee and, now, drinking chocolate. North Spore Drinking Chocolate claims you can experience the “magic of mushrooms” in its artisanal chocolate line–making it sit neatly in the gourmet wellness drink category. The ingredients include rich, fair-trade 66% dark cacao with mushroom fruiting body extracts. It’s USDA-certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free. 

Each bag makes six servings, with 500 mg of 100% fruiting body extracts per 4-tablespoon serving from five functional mushrooms: lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail. That’s the magic mix of mushrooms that potentially support mental focus, immune function, and gut health. 

But does it taste good? 

I have to admit that I never gave up hot chocolate when I became an adult which means the online chatter about nostalgia doesn’t hit. Maybe it’s because my sweet tooth needs nearly daily satiation so I’ve learned that hot chocolate is a great substitute for more indulgent and unhealthy treats. Or maybe it’s because I spend so much time watching my kids play hockey in freezing rinks, but I usually choose hot chocolate over coffee mid-afternoon on a weekend. Regardless, I drink a lot of watered down, carelessly made, instant powder hot chocolate. It also means with every sip of that stuff, I yearn for something better and I’m not surprised when it’s made well. I had high hopes for North Spore. 

How I made it

I had to translate the directions on the package from recommended ounces to cups. I used 1 cup of Lactaid 2 percent milk and 4 tablespoons of chocolate. I warmed the milk first to just about a boil and then stirred the chocolate until it was dissolved. If you make it like this, you’ll see flecks of chocolate until you pour the mixture into your mug, at which point it becomes smooth.

The Taste Test

When you unseal the bag, the North Spore chocolate smells rich and simply like chocolate. There aren’t earthy mushroom undertones overtaking the chocolate or spices fighting for attention. The chocolate chunks become silky in the heated milk and the taste is decadent. Thick and creamy, the experience is first and foremost hot chocolate, whereas so many mushroom drinks are clearly hoping to taste like something else. 

North Spore Drinking Chocolate reminds me of the kids food fad that had parents hiding vegetables in everything only here, they’re hiding functional mushrooms in chocolate. As for the effect of the functional mushrooms, I didn’t feel anything which is apparently in line with other people’s experiences. Functional mushrooms have a different impact on everyone and you should always make sure you don’t have allergies and they don’t conflict with your medication before consuming them.  

Final take

North Spore Drinking Chocolate with Functional Mushrooms is a treat that will satisfy a chocolate lover. There’s enough science to show potential in functional mushrooms to make me a convert on an upleveled hot chocolate drink. Now I’ll just have to figure out how to make it when I’m out of the house and on the road. 

The post I Tried North Spore Drinking Chocolate to Experience the ‘Magic’ of Functional Mushrooms appeared first on VICE.

READ ALL OF OUR MUSHROOM COFFEE REVIEWS: Best Mushroom Coffees for Function-Focused Freaks

What is Pow Wonder Matcha? 

Pow Wonder Matcha blends organic ceremonial-grade matcha sourced from Uji, Japan, combined with adaptogens and functional mushroom extracts that potentially support focus, stress resilience, and overall wellbeing.

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Pow Wonder Matcha (opens in a new window)

$45 at Amazon

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This formula includes high-quality ingredients like lion’s mane and chaga mushroom extracts—chosen for cognitive and immune-related properties—and ashwagandha, a traditional adaptogen linked with stress management, alongside Ceylon cinnamon and monk fruit for subtle sweetness without added sugar or artificial fillers.

The brand emerged from burnout and a search for clean, healing foods, and emerging science shows potential behind those claims. A major review in Current Research in Food Science found matcha’s compounds—catechins, L-theanine, and caffeine—may modestly reduce stress and support attention and memory, though evidence is limited. Animal studies suggest benefits for heart and metabolic health, inflammation, and weight gain, with early lab research showing possible anti-tumor effects that require far more clinical testing.

Matcha was used for ceremonial purposes as far back as 8th century Buddhist monks. Because of centuries-old standards, some reviews have pointed out that Pow Wonder Matcha has to hit a high bar when it comes to ritual, taste and effectiveness.  

Putting Pow Wonder Matcha to the Test

Pow Wonder Matcha comes in trippy, color-pop packaging that sets a lively vibe compared to a lot of other mushroom drinks. The packaging makes you feel like you’re going to have some fun. Unsealing the package reveals a deep green powder that skews slightly brown from the added mushrooms. Pow calls it ceremonial-grade matcha, but the blend won’t appear as vibrantly green as pure matcha because of those mushroom ingredients.

Making it

I prepared the Wonder Matcha with a little more than half a cup of water and a heaping spoonful of the powder (I used the scooper that came in the package). It takes a bit more stirring to fully dissolve the powder.

The Taste Test

Pow Wonder Matcha, prepared simply with water, is creamier and softer than other matcha drinks, which is what I’m comparing it to even though it’s a functional mushroom beverage as well. It doesn’t compare to the experience of pure mushroom drinks for me, which have a much earthier taste. I usually drink matcha with oat milk to counteract the grassy, earthy flavors. In this case, the added sweeteners help; I have a sweet tooth so I don’t mind the added sweetness. Matcha gives me a clean, midday lift but like Pow Wonder Coffee, I didn’t immediately feel the potential benefits of the drink. Then, I was in the kitchen asking my daughter what homework she was working on and I realized I was doing leg lifts.

Final Take

The name says it all. Pow Wonder Matcha is all of those things when it comes to energy and you don’t get the jitters. The taste is sweeter than pure matcha drinks which makes it feel a bit more like a treat. Pow Wonder Matcha is an excellent powder to add to foods and I think this one is makes perfect sense as a boost to your morning smoothie.

The post I Tried Pow Wonder Matcha to See What Happens When Functional Mushrooms Meet Green Tea appeared first on VICE.

READ ALL OF OUR MUSHROOM COFFEE REVIEWS: Best Mushroom Coffees for Function-Focused Freaks

What is North Spore Functional Mushroom Coffee? 

North Spore’s Functional-5 Mushroom Coffee is a medium-roast Nicaraguan blend with five organic functional mushroom extracts: Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail. Each bag contains 12,000 mg of mushroom fruiting-body extracts, delivering approximately 500 mg per serving. The mushrooms are dual-extracted and made from 100% fruiting bodies with no fillers or grain. 

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North Spore Functional Mushroom Coffee (opens in a new window)

$23 at Amazon

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The coffee is locally roasted in New England by North Spore, a company that began by growing mushrooms before moving into food products and grow kits. It is formulated to brew exactly like standard ground coffee using drip machines, pour-over, French press, or similar methods. The product contains only two ingredients—coffee and mushroom extracts—and is free from additives, sweeteners, and flavorings. 

It comes in a 10-ounce bag and is designed to provide a simple, single-step way to combine daily coffee with a functional mushroom blend. North Spore says the blend is formulated to support mental clarity, steady focus, and an uplifted mood, offering longer-lasting energy without the usual caffeine crash.

ALSO RELATED: I Tried the Viral Ryze Mushroom Coffee Everyone Won’t Shut Up About—Here’s What $40 of Mushroom Dust Really Does

Putting It to the test

Making It

Holding the bag of grounds gave me hope and when I unsealed it, the smell of coffee struck me – North Spore Function Mushroom Coffee is coffee first, mushroom drink second. Even the package design anchors it in the coffee category rather than a new wellness trend. 

The smell of the ground beans is decidedly pleasant and in an entirely different category from instant mushroom drinks that either lean hard into the earthy mushroom experience or jam pack the formula with flavors and spices to cover up the mushrooms. 

If you’ve ever brewed a pot of coffee, you know how to make this. The blend is designed to be brewed exactly like your regular grounds, so it slips easily into an existing routine without extra steps, frothers, or learning curves. I went with a 1 scoop to 1 cup of water ratio.  

The Taste Test

First I tried it black. The taste was earthier than the smell but much less bitter than a traditional coffee. When I added milk, it was creamy and smooth and I got the caramel color I love. The medium roast comes through first—smooth, balanced, and pleasantly robust—while the mushroom extracts sit quietly in the background, adding a subtle earthiness rather than a noticeable flavor shift.

The energy lift is clean and clear and I didn’t have my usual coffee crash. I also didn’t feel jittery or notice bitterness in my stomach. Knowing that there are functional mushrooms in the mix makes the experience feel more thoughtful than chugging a regular cup of coffee (always check with your doctor before taking functional mushrooms to make sure you’re not allergic or have any potential negative interactions with medications).  

Final Verdict

North Spore’s Functional Mushroom Coffee lands in that rare space where a functional blend still tastes like real coffee. It brews cleanly and delivers a steady, grounded energy that feels different from a typical caffeine spike. North Spore makes mushroom coffee easy to take.

The post I Tried North Spore Functional Mushroom Coffee appeared first on VICE.

Instant mushroom coffee seems to be everywhere if you’ve been on social media in the last hour, but which ones live up to the promise of being so delicious that you’re willing to give up your go-to coffee routine? 

MORE ON THIS: Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps: Are Mushroom Supplements Doing Anything or Just Vibes?

what is mushroom coffee, anyway?

For the newly inducted or curious, at its core, mushroom coffee mixes ground mushrooms (or mushroom extracts) with regular coffee, or in some cases with herbal bases that replace coffee entirely. The mushrooms used in the formulas are traditionally associated with ancient medicine and health benefits like lion’s mane, reishi, cordyceps, chaga, and turkey tail.

Fans of mushroom coffee love how they feel after one cup compared to drinking traditional coffee. Because mushroom-enhanced blends generally contain less caffeine (often about half that of a typical cup), you may get a smoother energy boost with less jitteriness, fewer crashes, and potentially better sleep and lower anxiety. Mushroom advocates argue that the mushroom components add adaptogens, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds that may support immune health, reduce inflammation, enhance mental focus, and aid stress resilience.

Still, as appealing as those claims sound, the science remains inconclusive because most testing has been done on animals. According to expert reviews, while mushrooms as food or supplements exhibit promising bioactive properties, we don’t know how much of that carries over to mushroom-coffee blends.

is mushroom coffee any good?

Mushroom coffee sits at the intersection of coffee alternative and “wellness-drink.” Its rise reflects growing consumer interest in gentler energy, stress-resilient lifestyles, and functional nutrition — even as scientific scrutiny works to catch up with marketing buzz.

That’s a lot to think about when you just want a nice cup of … something. And, what about how it tastes? That’s where we come in. We can’t prove or disprove the science behind the ingredients – we’ll leave that to researchers – but we can tell you how top selling mushroom coffees taste and how we feel after we drink them in comparison to our morning cup of coffee. For the purpose of these reviews, we tested every mushroom coffee with water using the recommended number of scoops with the lowest suggested hot water quantity. Enjoy!

the best instant mushroom coffees

Ryze Mushroom Coffee

Ryze Mushroom Coffee combines a light dose of Arabica coffee (≈ 48 mg caffeine) with a blend of adaptogenic mushrooms — lion’s mane, cordyceps, reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, and king trumpet. The experience is smooth and earthy, with a milder flavor and less acidity than traditional coffee. After drinking it, the morning buzz was clearer and without jitters or crash and gentler effect on the stomach.

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Ryze Mushroom Coffee (30 Servings) (opens in a new window)

$38.24 (reg. $44.99) at Amazon

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Read my hands-on Ryze review here.

Pow Wonder Coffee

Pow Wonder Coffee is a functional mushroom coffee from a small, Black-owned wellness brand focused on steadier energy rather than caffeine highs. It blends organic Arabica coffee with concentrated fruiting-body mushroom extracts, adaptogens, and either collagen or a vegan alternative, delivering about 50 milligrams of caffeine per serving. The mushroom mix — including Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Chaga — is designed to support focus, calm, and overall wellness, while L-theanine helps smooth out caffeine’s edge. Tested with hot water, it mixes easily and tastes earthy but rich, without jitters or heaviness. It works well as a straightforward coffee alternative that wakes you up in the morning or midday, and 1% of profits support food and health initiatives.

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Pow Wonder Coffee (opens in a new window)

$70 at Get Pow

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Read my hands-on Pow Wonder review here.

Joe’y Coffee Alternative

Joe’y is a mushroom-powered coffee alternative with 55 mg of caffeine and 3,000 mg of superfoods, including lion’s mane, cordyceps, reishi, cacao, chicory, and dandelion root. It’s sugar-free and fully plant-based ingredients. Mixed with hot water, it smells warm and cinnamon-forward, stirring into a thicker, richer drink than most mushroom coffees. The energy feels smooth and steady rather than jittery, offering a gentler wake-up.

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Joe'y Coffee Alternative (opens in a new window)

$24.99 at Amazon

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Read my hands-on Joe’y Coffee Alternative review here.

Lococo Hot Cocoa

Lococo Cocoa reframes hot chocolate as a grown-up wellness ritual rather than a sugary treat, and it delivers on that promise. Tested during a mid-afternoon slump, the Cocoa Bundle Kit makes a strong first impression with minimalist packaging, a wooden scoop, and a rechargeable frother that gives the whole experience a lifestyle-upgrade feel. The kit includes both blends — the Food & Wine–approved Original Spice and Lux Vanilla — in single-serve sachets.

The taste is the highlight. Lux Vanilla adds creamy, lightly sweet brightness to coffee without heaviness, while Original Spice smells fresh and warming and delivers bold flavor. Despite functional mushrooms and adaptogens, nothing tastes medicinal. The cocoa feels indulgent yet balanced, making it an easy upgrade from standard instant hot chocolate for adults seeking comfort with benefits.

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Lococo Hot Cocoa (opens in a new window)

$53 at Lococo

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Read my hands-on Lococo review here.

HERE ARE MORE POPULAR INSTANT MUSHROOM COFFEE ALTERNATIVES TO TRY

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Everyday Dose Coffee Plus Free Starter Kit (opens in a new window)

$69 at Everyday Dose

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Atlas Coffee Superblend (opens in a new window)

$26 at Atlas Coffee Club

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Laird Superfood Adaptogenic Coffee Focus (opens in a new window)

$20 at Laird Superfood

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Rasa Adaptogen-Packed Herbal Coffee Alternative (opens in a new window)

$24 at iHerb

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Simple Truth Organic Mushroom Instant Coffee (opens in a new window)

$14 at Walmart

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BeElevated Instant Mushroom Coffee (opens in a new window)

$20 at Walmart

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The post Best Mushroom Coffees for Function-Focused Freaks appeared first on VICE.

I was intrigued to see if this was actually a viable replacement for gummies, as edibles can often be a crapshoot, either tasting heavenly or like Robitussin. I was tired of artificial fruit flavors and wanted something different that would taste like a snack I actually crave. Cannatela is reportedly available at over 120 dispensaries across New York. I ordered mine through The Travel Agency, a high-end dispensary and delivery service based in New York City, where it retails for $35. While Cannatela also has a pistachio version of its spread, which was huge news for me as someone who is obsessed with Pistakio, I wanted to start with the original hazelnut spread and go from there. 

THE TASTE

When you call your product Cannatela, it better taste like Nutella, and it passed the test. Its rich hazelnut flavor notes are just like Nutella, except a teensy bit runnier and less sugary. You wouldn’t be able to tell it’s infused with THC, which is a plus. The container comes with a double-sided plastic spoon, letting you choose whether to indulge in a small bite or a big gulp. 

Since the container contains 100 mg, I wanted to try it in small amounts with different pairings. Besides having a tablespoon of the Cannatela on its own, I also paired it with some Trader Joe’s snacks, including Danish Gingerbread Snaps and Snacky Clusters (sea salt potato chips, corn chip dippers, and mini pretzel nuggets covered in milk chocolate). My favorite pairing was the Danish Gingerbread Snaps because it was essentially an “adult” version of the sandwich cookies like Oreos and Cameos that I loved as a kid. 

THE HIGH

Despite going back for seconds and thirds of Cannatela, I got less high than expected. At most, it felt like a slight buzz, like what you’d get after having a glass of wine, versus the typical high that comes with eating an edible. While I was expecting to feel the THC a bit more, I do appreciate that it’s a dose low enough that you can keep eating it throughout the night without it being overwhelming. This makes it great for parties, since nobody’s going to ruin the vibe by getting paranoid.

IS CANETELLA WORTH IT?

I don’t anticipate spending $35 on a THC-infused jar of hazelnut cocoa regularly. Still, I appreciate how versatile it is, offering more recipe options than you’d get with the average edible. You can top your ice cream with it, make chocolate-covered strawberries, spread it on toast—the possibilities are endless! I do think that unless you’re planning to eat the whole thing by yourself, Cannatela works best with a plethora of snacks to pair it with and a couple of friends to help out. The high depends on how much you consume, so it also depends on the kind of experience you want. If you’re looking for a stronger high and don’t want to get a stomachache from eating too much chocolate, this might not be for you. But otherwise, why not indulge? 

The post Cannatela Is the Versatile Spread to Enhance Your Favorite Snack appeared first on VICE.

Between the exceptionally mouthwatering flavor and the strong high that will have you happy as an elf, this cookie is like a Christmas miracle. It’s not for the weak THC tolerance folks. But for the heavy cannabis users who want to get more blitzed than Blitzen for the seasonal festivities, it’s a dank dessert. 

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Snickerdoodle Rosin Cookie (opens in a new window)

Available at Kush Queen

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MORE TO EAT: Take & Get Baked Cookie Mix for a Homemade High

Lift Level: How Strong Is This?

The Kush Queen Snickerdoodle Rosin Cookie is, well, a snickerdoodle cookie. Obviously. But it’s *special*, like those brownies your fun aunt was always talking about. Each cookie contains a whopping 49-50mg Delta-9 THC, plus a few milligrams of CBD to keep you chill this Christmas. 

For people who love serious edibles, this is a merry option, as one cookie will have you higher than Santa’s reindeer in less than an hour. The small-batch cookies are made with natural ingredients and premium rosin extract, so you’re not getting any harsh synthetics or other icky stuff. 

I would not recommend these for beginners. If you’re new to THC and are still dying to try these, just start with a bite. And I mean literally ONE bite, or you might get uncomfortably high. For moderate users who are ready for a sky-high experience, half of one cookie should be enough for you. Of course, when I tried these, I ate a whole cookie to get the full experience. Don’t do that unless you’re super confident in your THC tolerance. 

High Times: How Will it Make You Feel?

The snickerdoodle cookies deliver a soft and classic edible high. The fat dose of Delta-9 THC and a tiny bit of CBD create a soothing sensation, settling you into a thick haze of holly jolly happiness. I don’t recommend taking this before tackling responsibilities. Even doing the dishes may be out of reach for you. 

These babies are for “Harry Potter” marathons, Battleship tournaments, and naptime. You’ll be cheerful, with rosy cheeks and all that jazz. I did get a serious bout of edibles every time I ate one of these, which is a vicious cycle because the cookies are so yummy you just want to munch on them, which only gives you more munchies. You get the picture. Make sure you have other milk and cookies around to keep you satisfied. 

While the high was a classic feel for baked edibles like this, the come-down was not as sleepy as usual. Usually, after enjoying the high from a strong baked edible like this, I’m passed out. These offered a softer come-down, like a gentle wave setting you down on shore. It typically feels more like a shipwreck that sends you to sleep. 

From decorating the tree to Christmas movie nights and conversation fueled by eggnog, these cookies create a wonderful high for laidback holiday activities. You get to ride the haze and be in a festive mood. 

Munch Factor: How Does it Taste?

SO GOOD. I’ll start off by saying that these definitely have a hempy aftertaste. With 50mg of genuine THCa rosin, that grassy undertone is 100% expected. I’d be suspicious if the cookie didn’t have any sort of hemp flavor. 

However, the subtle grassy taste almost complements the warm snickerdoodle flavor. It adds a bit of depth to the already rich cookie. The cinnamon sugar flavor is undeniable and supported by a buttery, cozy taste. Dare I say it’s the best THC cookie I’ve ever had? Yeah, I think I’ll say that, but I’m also a sucker for snickerdoodle. 

The sweet cinnamon aroma will hit from the moment you open the bag. These have that comforting balance of spice and sugar that all holiday cookies need. The texture is just right — crumbly but still moist. They won’t disintegrate in your hand, but have a bit of crunch. The buttery cookie melts in your mouth, similar to a shortbread. 

And it’s all wrapped up in a beautiful presentation, with teeny red and green sprinkles on top to drive home the holiday spirit. These snickerdoodles would be Santa-approved for sure. 

Shelf Appeal: What’s the Vibe?

Kush Queen went full Christmas on these, with the colorful sprinkles and package that features a cartoon image of Santa Claus delivering presents. The holographic packaging adds a chic flair to the cookie’s aesthetic, reminding you that Kush Queen is a modern hemp brand that’s still cool. 

They found that sweet spot where the packaging is unique and eye-catching, but still understated and elegant. It’s the kind of thing I’d want a closer look at if I saw it on a dispensary shelf. I kind of wish they made Santa look high on the package, but that’s neither here nor there. 

Bud for Your Buck: What’s the Price?

One of these cookies will cost you $12, or you can buy three for $32.40, which brings the price down to $10.80 per cookie. While you can find cheaper THC cookies on the market, there are few with 50mg of THC. Considering many 10-20mg cookies are around $10, the Kush Queen Snickerdoodle Cookie is a steal. 

For me, this is a fun holiday treat for yourself or a tasty gift for your stoner friend. I wouldn’t exclusively get high on these because 1. It’s not a budget-friendly root and 2. I’d be eating too many cookies. But why not get a few cookies to make the holidays special?

Canna-Conclusion

Stick a few of these under the tree this year, and you’ll be more beloved than Santa. The Kush Queen Snickerdoodle Rosin Cookie is wildly delicious and cozy, making it the ideal companion while sitting by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. 

Leave a little something magical out for Santa this year, along with his warm glass of milk. It’ll make his sleigh ride a little higher, and your Christmas a little brighter. 

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Snickerdoodle Rosin Cookie (opens in a new window)

Available at Kush Queen

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Bonus Buds

You can make your own cookies with the Cycling Frog Take and Bake Cookie Mix, which is a beginner-friendly potency of just 5mg THC per cookie.

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Cycling Frog

Take and Get Baked Cookie Mix for a Homemade High (opens in a new window)

Available at Cycling Frog

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Mood Andy’s THC Chocolate Chip Cookie lets you choose from a few different dosages so you can find your Goldilocks high. Go for a Baby Bear 10mg, Mama Bear 25mg, or Papa Bear 50mg THC. 

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Mood

Andys THC Chocolate Chip Cookie (opens in a new window)

Available at Mood

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If cookies aren’t your thing, you can also try Mood’s THC Brownie Bites for a fudgy edible. 

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Mood

Andys THC Brownie Bites (opens in a new window)

Available at Mood

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Buy Now (opens in a new window)

The post A Snickerdoodle Cookie With Sugar, Spice, and a High That’s Extra Nice appeared first on VICE.

The latest season brings back the “Holiday Throwdown,” seeing Flay face off against previous contestants who want to take him down, from Top Chef season 16 winner Kelsey Barnard Clark to Food Network star Aarti Sequeira, while making Thanksgiving and Christmas dishes. Although some were able to defeat him, like Bobby’s Triple Threat newcomer Ayesha Nurdjaja, Flay still won most of the episodes. Surprisingly, his wins do make sense this season. Ahead of the season finale, let’s look back at moments from season 41 when he was rightfully victorious.

EPISODE 2 – “FRIENDSGIVING POTLUCK”

This was Antonia Lofaso’s second time competing on Beat Bobby Flay. She won on her debut with the help of Michael Simon in season 34, but she wasn’t so lucky this time around. Lofaso, who focuses on Italian cooking, chose sausage lasagna as her signature dish. When faced with the choice of picking Jet Tila—who’s had a lucky streak of never losing while helping Flay beat previous contestants— or Damaris Phillips—who has defeated Flay—as her teammate, she went with Phillips. While Phillips is a brilliant chef and pastry genius, the decision not to split up Flay and Tila (who even wore matching outfits!) backfired.

The ladies went the simple route, with cheesy garlic bread and a shaved Brussels sprouts salad as sides. Meanwhile, Flay and Tila had a tension-filled cook, with Flay looking a bit more stressed than usual, while making shrimp with anchovy breadcrumbs (as expected, flavored with Calabrian chilis) and a Castelfranco salad. It was a tight competition, as Flay and Tila’s lasagna was a tad overcooked, but combined with the sides, it turned out to be the winner of the night. While you can’t go wrong with cheesy garlic bread, I have to give Flay and Tila props for picking sides that weren’t as heavy as the lasagna, which I think was the key to them remaining an undefeated duo.

EPISODE 4 – “GHOST OF BOBBY FLAY’S PAST”

Keeping a Christmas Carol theme, the episode featured three chefs who had previously beaten Flay, face-to-face: Esther Choi, Amanda Freitag, and Maneet Chauhan. After Chauhan emerged victorious after battling it out with Choi and Freitag, the Tournament of Champions two-time champ seemed like the perfect person to take Flay down again. Alas, despite trying to throw Flay off by picking mutton meat pie as her signature dish (Flay is notoriously awful when it comes to pastries), he wound up winning against her with Choi’s help. While it was surprising to see Chauhan lose, Beat Bobby Flay is nothing compared to dealing with TOC‘s tedious, randomizer-based format while competing against some of the country’s best chefs. Flay had a huge advantage with Choi, who’s a beast in the kitchen. He decided to go with flavors that fit Choi’s Korean cuisine, giving them a leg up.

While Chauhan and Freitag decided to pair their mutton meat pie with kedgeree rice with smoked haddock and a raspberry summer trifle, their pie didn’t win over the judges and the dishes didn’t look nearly as appetizing as Flay and Choi’s Korean mutton meat pie (with a kick of spice from kimchi), which was accompanied by crispy Brussels sprouts with bacon and kimchi, and a crunchy salad with cucumbers and chilis. But as Choi semi-jokingly quipped, it really was her win, as she influenced Flay’s direction and gave him pointers on how to maximize the Korean flavors.

EPISODE 5 – “CHRISTMAS EVE-RYWHERE”

Given Flay’s personal tie-in, this was a weird episode. We have Top Chef and Triple Threat star Brooke Williamson, who is dating Flay, competing against him. While they don’t address their romance on TV, there’s plenty of banter, including Flay pointing out that she’s lost each time she’s been on Beat Bobby Flay. But it also meant that Williamson could mess with him more, picking three signature dishes: chateaubriand, potato latkes, and a dessert soufflé. Flay decided to rely on his go-to, putting chiles on everything—including the soufflé! While I can’t help but roll my eyes at him defaulting to his expected moves, I will give him props for using the chiles in unexpected ways.

Typically, the judges aren’t household names, but this time the panel included Top Chef‘s Karen Akunowicz. We’ve recently seen her thrive in many of Food Network’s shows, including Tournament of Champions and Triple Threat, so she knows flavor. While she thought his chile-crusted chateaubriand was a bit too spicy, she called his latkes, which were topped with goat cheese and green chili sauce, an “outstanding bite.” Meanwhile, Williamson, who competed with the help of fellow Top Chef alum Claudette Zepeda, didn’t wow the judges with her classic take on the chateaubriand, paired with a traditional latke and chocolate soufflé with a passion fruit anglaise. As much as it pains me to admit it, Flay deserved the win.

The season 41 finale of Beat Bobby Flay airs on Tuesday, Dec. 16 on Food Network

The post ‘Beat Bobby Flay’ Season 41 Dishes Bobby Flay Actually Deserved to Win With appeared first on VICE.