Recess reviews and discussion

3.9

71% of reviewers would recommend to a friend

Reviews mention

  • Stylish matte-can branding
  • Refreshing, lightly sweet flavors
  • Notably calming for some
  • Versatile alcohol alternative
  • Inconsistent flavor intensity
  • Occasional hempy aftertaste
  • Subtle, unreliable functional effects
  • Sometimes low, gentle carbonation

Recess earns mixed reviews: the brand’s calming drinks and powders sometimes work—several users report a noticeable chill, better sleep, or a subtle clarity—yet many feel no effect. Reviewers praise Recess for crisp, lightly sweet flavors like Blood Orange, Peach Ginger, Black Cherry, Blackberry Chai, and Strawberry Rose, stylish matte cans, and a satisfying alcohol alternative, but cite inconsistent flavor strength, occasional hempy/chemical aftertaste, and underwhelming CBD/adaptogen impact.

AI summary based on Thingtesting reviews

481 reviews and posts

  • Tried the blue-purple can and it tasted very dirty and dry. I normally like earthy flavors but this was too medicinal for me. I’ll try other flavors eventually.

  • I picked up the black cherry flavor when I was after a much needed wind - down. The flavor was subpar- like an unsweetened tea profile... that could use more sugar? However, I did feel a little more calm after. Would I repurchase? No - the flavor wasn't yummy enough to get me back and I'd be curious to try other offerings.

    Feedback

    Streghthen the flavor profile so that it will leave more of an impressions - that will also justify the price point.

  • I bought the purple one from a bodega in nyc for $5. I really wanted to like this but it tastes so awful I'm sorry. Unfortunately, bottom-tier sparkling water. I get it's supposed to make you more chill and relaxed but I did not feel anything.

  • They're decently tasty! But i'm not sure I'm sold on the CBD aspect.... I have never felt different after having one? Not particularly calming to me or anything like that. Don't get me wrong if someone gives me one or if they're on sale I'll have one, because they taste good, but the price can kind of only be justified to me if I genuinely felt CBD effects.

  • Delicious taste and love the newer "mood" line that doesn't have CBD.

    Feedback

    Pricey so not an every-day drink. But no complaint.

  • Recess is a nice way to treat yourself without guilt, but it's not obvious the effect it will have on your mood. The flavors are great, but I haven't necessarily felt the mood benefits as described. The packaging is sleek and I've found it a nice way to step outside of the standard la croix or other daily soda water choice to feel special.

  • Flavor is decent, but nothing amazing. I buy them for the CBD or Magnesium aspect of the product, definitely not for their taste.

    Feedback

    Price is pretty outrageous.

  • The inside matches the outside in this case, by which i mean, the beverage is as good as the packaging. Not too sweet but actually great tasting (compared to most nutraceuticals), Recess is a chill beverage best served cold.

    Feedback

    like anyone, i've got my preferences of the six flavors, and am glad they added a sampler package so i can keep revisiting them all periodically. in a perfect world i'd be able to customize my subscription box but that's just a wish, not a need.

    Invested in Recess
  • For the price, these don't hit the mark for me. I really don't get any type of feelings from lower doses of CBD so I felt like this was a high-dollar LaCroix. The flavor was a bit strong for sparkling water so I don't think I'd ever purchase again. Giving it an extra star because the logo is cute.

  • Some of my favorite flavors & a great alternative for a soda not too sugary or sweet.

  • Took off a star because they really only have one good flavor but that flavor alone makes me love the brand. Strawberry Rose is one of my all time favorite beverages, especially in the sparkling water category. The other flavors were kind of boring or they fell flat but not the Strawberry Rose. It has a touch of vanilla so it gives off a strawberry shortcake sort of vibe and I can't get enough. I will always pick up a can of Recess (Strawberry Rose only) when i'm out!

  • Love recess for a stressful day. The flavor options are so good too.

  • Nice alternative for sodas

  • Really good and accessible at a lot of retailers. Chill vibes without overdoing it.

  • I love love love a well made cocktail - but I never drink during the week and only occasionally on weekends now. I hate how alcohol disrupts my sleep, and it just takes me days to feel properly recovered. Also, not the best habit. I do however like sipping something tasty and special as part of my unwinding routine. I love how Recess has delicious and complex flavors and just enough sparkle to be satisfying. They're a great swap for the sober and sober curious, especially during the holidays!

  • Not sure the product is effective, but it is tasty !

  • I love Recess, and specifically the original hemp extract containing flavors. As someone who is high-strung, the l-theanine and hemp really do work to chill me out. My favorite flavors are peach ginger and pomegranate.