Introducing Our Lion’s Mane–Infused Dark Chocolate

A new expression of thoughtful chocolate, crafted bean to bar in Lahaina

At Maui Ku‘ia Estate Chocolate, we believe chocolate can be more than a treat - it can be a reflection of place, process, and intention. That philosophy continues with our newest creation: a 65% Dark Chocolate infused with locally grown Maui Lion’s Mane mushroom, crafted entirely bean to bar in Lahaina.

This chocolate begins with our signature Classic Dark profile: nutty, cocoa-forward, and traditionally balanced, designed to showcase the natural character of cacao. To this foundation, locally grown Maui Lion’s Mane mushroomis infused into the cocoa butter used to make the chocolate, allowing the ingredient to integrate seamlessly into each bite. The result is a smooth, approachable dark chocolate presented as 5g napolitains, made for simple, mindful enjoyment. It has pleasant, earthy notes that beautifully compliment the nuttiness of our Classic dark chocolate.

Like all of our dark chocolate, this chocolate is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and kosher certified.

What Is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible culinary mushroom that has been traditionally consumed in East Asia for centuries. In Japan, it is known as Yamabushitake, a name inspired by its resemblance to the garments worn by the Yamabushi - mountain ascetics associated with the Shugendō tradition.

Shugendō emphasized discipline, endurance, meditation, and mental steadiness. Within these cultural foodways, Lion’s Mane occasionally appeared in mountain and temple cuisine, which was designed to support calmness, balance, and clarity as part of a disciplined lifestyle. This long-standing culinary and cultural context forms the earliest foundation of Lion’s Mane’s association with mental wellness.

A Modern Scientific Perspective

Scientific interest in Lion’s Mane began expanding in the early 1990s, as researchers started examining compounds that generations of traditional use had long valued. Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds within Lion’s Mane - including hericenones and erinacines - which have been studied for their role in nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling and related neurological pathways.

Preclinical research and small human studies have explored Lion’s Mane in relation to cognitive performance, mental clarity, and psychological well-being. When effects are observed in human studies, they tend to be associated with sustained intake over time, rather than immediate or acute outcomes. Large-scale, long-term human trials remain limited, in part due to the challenges of funding research on naturally occurring, non-patentable food ingredients.

Today, Lion’s Mane continues to be of interest as a food ingredient that supports overall brain and mental wellness when included as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Locally Grown on Maui

All of the Lion’s Mane used in this chocolate is grown locally on Maui, supporting local agriculture and allowing us to work closely with the growers.

Lion's Mane is infused directly into the cocoa butter - a method chosen for consistency, integration, and quality - before crafting the chocolate from bean to bar in Lahaina. Each 5g Napolitain square has 0.5g of lions mane extracted onto it. 

This product is intended as a food, not as a treatment or therapy, and is best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Tasting Notes & Pairing Suggestions

This lion’s mane–infused dark chocolate offers a smooth, cocoa-forward opening from our 65% Classic Dark, followed by subtle earthy notes from the mushroom infusion. The result is a balanced, grounded flavor that feels familiar yet distinct, with the lion’s mane adding depth rather than intensity.

This chocolate pairs beautifully with a Pinot Noir, whose bright acidity and soft red-fruit notes complement the cocoa while harmonizing with the chocolate’s gentle earthiness. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a small, intentional bite meant to be savored slowly.

Available Now!

This lion’s mane–infused Classic Dark Chocolate is available in two formats:

• 18-Piece Gift Tin (5g napolitains) — $29

• 50-Piece Bulk Bag (5g napolitains) — $55

Each piece is crafted bean to bar in Lahaina and designed to be enjoyed as a small, intentional bite.