The Story
PERC Coffee began in 2010 when Philip Brown, an Athens-based musician turned barista, moved to Savannah armed with a coffee roaster, a bicycle, and a big backpack. What started as a one-man roasting project in a 450-square-foot room with deliveries made by bike has grown into one of the Southeast’s most colorful and respected specialty roasters.
Philip had spent nearly a decade working at another coffee shop in Savannah before deciding to strike out on his own. His goal was simple: make world-class coffee approachable and fun. That ethos still runs through everything PERC does, from its vibrant packaging to the way the team talks about coffee with customers.
Over the years PERC has expanded beyond its Savannah flagship to open locations in Atlanta, bringing its brand of adventurous specialty coffee to a wider audience across the Southeast.
Sourcing & Relationships
PERC sources coffees that are bold and dynamic, seeking out lots with distinct character from producing regions across the globe. The team works with importers and farms that prioritize quality and sustainability, selecting beans that allow their roasting style to shine. Offerings range from fruit-forward Ethiopian naturals to clean, sweet washed Colombians and structured Central American lots.
Roasting Philosophy
The roasting team at PERC focuses on precision and intention, developing profiles that highlight each coffee’s inherent sweetness, clarity, and balance. The approach leans toward showcasing origin character rather than imposing a heavy roast signature, resulting in coffees that are expressive and approachable at the same time.
PERC hosts a free public cupping every first Saturday at 1pm, inviting customers to experience and evaluate coffees the way the team does. This openness reflects a broader belief that specialty coffee should be shared, not gatekept.
What to Try
Start with H2, PERC’s flagship blend designed for everyday brewing. For something bolder, the Birdcage Blend offers a richer, more structured cup. PERC’s single-origin rotating selections showcase the breadth of their sourcing, with seasonal offerings that highlight the best of each harvest.