Trader Joe’s Decaf Coffee Review: A Surprisingly Bold Brew Without the Buzz
- Brandon Bills
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
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For coffee lovers who crave the ritual without the jitters, finding a decaf that doesn’t taste like a compromise can feel like chasing a unicorn. Enter Trader Joe’s Joe Medium Roast Decaf Coffee — a budget-friendly, water-processed option that’s quietly earned a cult following. But is it truly the best decaf coffee on the shelf, or just another bland brew in disguise?

In this Trader Joe’s decaf coffee review, we’ll break down flavor, aroma, brewing methods, and value to help you decide if this caffeine-free contender deserves a spot in your pantry.
What Is Trader Joe’s Joe Medium Roast Decaf Coffee?
Trader Joe’s Joe Medium Roast Decaf is a 100% Arabica coffee, medium roasted and decaffeinated using the water process—a chemical-free method that retains more of the bean’s natural flavor. Available in ground form, it’s designed for convenience and versatility, whether you’re brewing in a drip machine, French press, or pour-over.
Key Features:
100% Arabica beans
Water-processed decaffeination
Pre-ground for easy brewing
Affordable price point (typically under $8 per 14 oz bag)
Let's take a closer look at our impressions of this coffee in the review that follows.
Flavor Profile: Earthy, Nutty, and Surprisingly Full-Bodied
One of the most common complaints about decaf coffee is its lack of depth. Trader Joe’s defies expectations with a flavor profile that’s:
Earthy and slightly nutty on the nose
Smooth and balanced on the palate
Low in acidity, making it ideal for sensitive stomachs
Roasty and full-bodied, especially when brewed in a French press

While some reviewers note a hint of astringency when brewed pour-over style, most agree that this Trader Joe's decaf coffee holds its own against pricier Swiss water decafs... a real accomplishment for Trader Joe's given the price point!
Best Brewing Methods for Trader Joe’s Decaf
To get the most out of this blend, consider these brewing tips:
French Press: Enhances body and richness; ideal for bold flavor lovers.
Drip Machine: Delivers a clean, consistent cup with minimal fuss.
Pour-Over: May highlight astringent notes—better suited for those who enjoy a sharper finish.
Pair it with Trader Joe's almond milk or oat milk for a creamy, café-style experience without the caffeine crash.
At the end of the day, you can brew this coffee in your favorite method. One of our reviewers took this decaf coffee from Trader Joe's on a camping trip and used their camp coffee setup to brew the coffee.
Value for Money: A Decaf That Delivers on the Price
At under $8 per bag, Trader Joe’s decaf coffee punches above its weight. Compared to boutique decafs that run $15–$20, this blend offers excellent value, reliable quality, and a wide availability in-store nationwide.
For those who drink decaf daily or need a caffeine-free option for guests, it’s a smart, budget-friendly choice. When we visited Trader Joe's to pick up our coffees for trial, we were always greeted with full shelves and plenty of options to choose from. It seems that Trader Joe's keeps its decaf coffee in stock at all times and prioritizes availability of this item.
We spoke with an employee on a recent visit and she exclaimed that "you'd be surprised how much we sell Trader Joe's decaf coffee," adding, "our decaf coffee is easily a best seller!"

Final Verdict: Is Trader Joe’s Decaf Coffee Worth It?
At the end of the day, we absolutely recommend the Trader Joe's decaf coffee (and at this price point it's difficult not to recommend it). But knowing that everyone's tastes and preferences are different, we break down why we give it this recommendation below:
Pros:
Rich, full-bodied flavor
Chemical-free water processing
Affordable and accessible
Versatile brewing options
Cons:
Slight bitterness in pour-over
Limited availability online
If you’re searching for the best decaf coffee that won’t break the bank, Trader Joe’s Medium Roast Decaf is a solid contender. It’s flavorful, affordable, and widely loved—proving that decaf doesn’t have to be dull.
Have you tried the Trader Joe's decaf coffee? If so, do you agree with our Trader Joe's coffee review?
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