Perkup Espresso Anchorage: A Review of the Local Drive-Thru Favorite
Nestled on West Potter Drive, Perkup Espresso is a staple in the Anchorage coffee scene. Instantly recognizable by the consistent lines of cars on either side of its small building, this drive-thru has earned a strong 4.5-star rating from over 300 reviews. But do the long waits lead to a rewarding cup of coffee? We dove into customer experiences to see if Perkup Espresso lives up to its local hype.
The Buzz: Friendly Service and Flavorful Coffee
The overwhelming sentiment from regulars and first-timers alike is positive, centering on two key aspects: the quality of the drinks and the exceptional service. Many customers, like Jahnay, note that even after a wait, the coffee is served at the perfect temperature and the flavors are distinct and well-balanced. She noted her boyfriend “could taste the caramel” in his drink, a sign of quality ingredients and preparation.
However, the real standout feature appears to be the staff. Reviewers consistently describe the baristas as “friendly, fast, & knowledgeable.” DaLonna Sprinkle, a daily customer, offers high praise for baristas Abrial and Amaya, who nail her complex custom order every single time. She highlights their professionalism and “great sense of humor,” calling her visit the “perfect start to my day.” This level of personalized, cheerful service is what transforms a simple coffee run into a positive daily ritual, building a loyal customer base that many larger chains struggle to replicate.
Analysis: The strength of Perkup Espresso lies in its ability to deliver a consistent, high-quality product alongside a memorable and personal customer experience. In the competitive drive-thru coffee market, where speed is often prioritized over all else, Perkup seems to have found a successful balance. The fact that customers know baristas by name speaks volumes about the community atmosphere the shop has cultivated.
Potential Grounds for Complaint: Inconsistency and Wait Times
No coffee shop is perfect, and Perkup Espresso is no exception. The most significant critiques revolve around order accuracy and efficiency. While many praise the friendly staff, a few experiences suggest this can sometimes lead to delays. One customer, Jared Albrecht, reported being late for work after an 11-minute wait at the window while the staff engaged in a lengthy chat with the car ahead.
More concerning are the reports of inconsistent drink preparation. Liv C. describes a frustratingly common issue where her partner orders a white mocha but repeatedly receives a regular mocha. On one occasion, the drink was missing the espresso entirely, essentially being a cup of syrup. For an $8 drink, such mistakes are a major letdown and point to potential gaps in training or quality control on certain shifts.
Analysis: The contrast between glowing reviews and highly critical ones suggests a customer’s experience at Perkup can be a bit of a gamble. The very thing that makes the service special for some—the friendly, chatty atmosphere—can become a source of frustration for others in a hurry. The issue of order inconsistency is a more serious operational flaw. While regulars with simple orders may never have a problem, those with specific requests or visiting during a busy shift might face a higher risk of error.
What to Order: A Taste of Anchorage at Perkup
While the shop likely offers typical coffee-shop pastries, the clear star of the show is the extensive and creative drink menu.
- Custom Classics: Patrons rave about their ability to handle custom orders. A Vanilla Breve, half sweet, extra hot with whip is a popular choice for those who know exactly what they like.
- Milkshakes: For a colder, richer treat, the Mocha Milkshake (extra thick) comes highly recommended.
- Seasonal Specialties: Perkup truly shines with its seasonal menus. One reviewer celebrated the fall menu, which included unique and delicious creations like the Hocus Pocus, the Great Pumpkin, and the Cider Fog. This rotating menu keeps things interesting and encourages repeat visits.
Final Verdict: Is Perkup Espresso Worth the Wait?
Perkup Espresso embodies the charm and challenge of a popular local business. The enthusiastic praise from its regulars is a testament to its delicious coffee, creative specialty drinks, and genuinely friendly staff who make customers feel valued. It’s a place where community is clearly brewed into every cup.
However, the long lines and occasional issues with order accuracy are valid concerns. The experience can be inconsistent, swinging from a perfect custom-made drink to a frustrating error.
Our Recommendation: If you value a personal touch and enjoy creative, seasonal coffee drinks, Perkup Espresso is absolutely worth a try. It’s an ideal stop when you’re not in a frantic rush and can appreciate the friendly interaction. For first-timers or those with a complex order, it might be wise to confirm your drink at the window to ensure you get exactly what you paid for.
Perkup Espresso
201 W Potter Dr, Anchorage, AK 99518, United States
Rating: 4.5
Rated count: 306
