Portland's New Vegan Mushroom Cafe: A Fun Twist on Drinks
In the heart of Portland, a unique cafe has opened its doors, offering a completely vegan menu with a focus on mushroom-based drinks. The Dusted Cup, founded by Stacey and Bradley Propst, is not your average coffee shop. Instead of the usual caffeine fix, they serve up a variety of mushroom-infused beverages, from matcha lattes to smoothies, and even hot chocolate-like brews.
The Idea Behind The Dusted Cup
The idea for The Dusted Cup came about when the Propsts were looking for a larger space to produce their Shroomdust drink blends. These blends combine functional mushrooms, known for their medicinal properties, with a rich cacao base. Stacey, a self-proclaimed mushroom enthusiast, incorporates these fungi into everything from muffins to matcha.
Mushroom Varieties and Health Benefits
The cafe offers a range of mushrooms to choose from, including:
- Lion's Mane
- Chaga
- Reishi
Customers can even add a "power up" to their drinks for an extra boost. The Propsts believe that consuming mushrooms in this powdered form allows for a higher intake, making it easier to reap their health benefits.
More Than Just Drinks
The Dusted Cup is not just about drinks. They also serve up a full vegan menu, with:
- Breakfast sandwiches
- Chickn' salad sandwiches
- Mushroom-infused baked goods like lion's mane peanut butter cookies
The cafe is located in a historic building along the waterfront, making it a unique spot to enjoy a meal or a drink.
The Future of Mushroom Drinks
While the health benefits of functional mushrooms are still being studied, the Propsts are confident in their products. They believe that mushroom drinks can provide a more sustained energy boost compared to coffee. With its unique offerings and focus on health, The Dusted Cup is definitely a place worth checking out in Portland.
