Cryptid Coffee — Restaurant in Pelzer

I wish I could share a photo of the delicious Earl Grey Mocha or the incredible Blue Matcha that I had at Cryptid, but unfortunately they were too visually appealing and I devoured them before I even remembered that I had a camera in my pocket.

The atmosphere in this historic building is unmatched. The owners put a lot of effort into retaining as much charm from the original space as possible, and I know this because the warmth you feel by simply being in the space attests to it. The decor is simple yet interesting, and even the furniture has character. There are so many places to rest and even work at.

I've lived off of fast-service chain coffee and whatever the sludge is that comes out of my pot at home for years- Cryptid's menu makes me never want to drink that stuff again. The drinks I've had here tasted MUCH better and cost LESS than the chains and my pitiful home concoctions. You won't find as wide of a range of tasty and creative beverages anywhere else. I didn't know you could put coffee in soda. It's so good.

The service speaks for itself. Everyone is friendly, helpful, and has offered excellent recommendations when asked. I was also shown available rental spaces within the building while I was there recently- STUNNING.

Pelzer is a community that has been around longer than I can remember. What I do remember is the small town charm Pelzer has to offer, something that is dwindling from the Upstate. While this charm remains in Pelzer, it is echoed within the walls of Cryptid Coffee and should serve as a reminder that our local businesses are pillars of our community. If you're local, get over there! If it's a bit of a drive for you, make it anyway. I promise you won't be disappointed and there is plenty of parking available.

Also their merch is so cool. I bought a hat...

In a world increasingly overrun by soulless chain stores and government-regulated sameness, this coffee shop stands as a quiet act of rebellion. Tucked inside an old, character-filled building untouched by the cold hand of urban "development," the space radiates authenticity—rustic, vintage, and defiantly unpolished to the core.

The people who run it aren’t faceless wage slaves bowing to corporate overlords—they are people. Warm, genuine, and clearly in it for more than just profit margins or tax write-offs. They’ve created a space that feels like community, not surveillance capitalism.

The coffee? Liberating. Beans from independent local roasters, not multi-national agri-conglomerates. Seasonal drinks are imaginative and made with actual care, not focus-grouped nonsense approved by bureaucratic bean counters.

Whether you're escaping the grind, dodging digital noise, or reclaiming a sliver of your autonomy—this place serves. It’s not just a coffee shop. It’s a way to become untrapped from the belly of the machine that is bleeding to death. A must for anyone who still believes in human-made spaces, connection, and honesty without compromise.

Highly recommend—before someone tries to regulate the...

This coffee shop is an absolute gem. It's tucked inside a beautiful old three or four story building, and the space is full of character—rustic, vintage, stylish, and thoughtfully put together. It has a creative, welcoming feel that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile.

The owner and staff are incredible humans. Warm, genuine, and full of good energy. Their presence makes the space feel even more inviting.

The coffee is outstanding, with beans sourced from local roasters, and the seasonal drinks are crafted with creativity and care. Whether you're here to relax, catch up with friends, or just enjoy a truly good cup of coffee, this place delivers.

A wonderful addition to the neighborhood and absolutely worth adding to your weekly routine....