The Perez familia’s love for serving coffee started nearly 90 years ago with Don Pepe in the sugarcane fields of Puerto Padre, Cuba. Don Pepe and his Family would prepare breakfast and lunch for up to 400 sugarcane field workers, and of course, coffee was always an important part of starting a successful day.

In the 1950’s, his son Rene Perez (second generation) immigrated to the U.S. via New York City with just his luggage and the desire to pursue the American Dream through culinary artistry. He eventually built a Family and moved to Orlando, Florida, where he opened his first diner.

That tradition was carried on by his son Ruben Perez, co founder of Zaza Coffee. Ruben grew up working in his dad’s diners and developed a love for hospitality and a passion for extraordinary coffee. He continued the Family tradition by opening Don Pepe’s Cuban Café in 1989, expanding to the Orlando International Airport in 1997, and opening the first Zaza Coffee at the airport in 2009. Zaza quickly became a beloved spot for award winning coffee and delicious food.

Today, that legacy continues four generations later with premium high altitude coffee, artisan roasted in Longwood, Florida by Ruben’s two sons, Ruben Enrique and Leonardo Antonio. Our passion goes beyond our ten locations and boutique roasters. We feel it is imperative to collaborate and integrate ourselves into the Coffee community of Central Florida, from farm visits across Central and South America to hosting classes in our roaster, joining Florida Coffee Culture, and sponsoring Florida Coffee Fest.

On one trip to Costa Rica, Ruben met Pablo Juarez, a high level Q Grader coffee cupper and international competitor. Pablo later immigrated to the United States and joined Zaza’s Familia, helping build a stronger coffee culture. Pablo’s vast experience and expertise is a true asset.