The Sentient Bean
The Sentient Bean is an independently owned cafe and vegetarian restaurant located at 13 E Park Ave directly across from Forsyth Park in the heart of historic Savannah. Since opening the venue has become a gathering space dedicated to conscious consumption community activism and creative expression earning recognition as Best Coffeehouse Best Vegetarian Restaurant Best Indie Film Venue and Best Green Business in Connect Savannah reader polls.
Coffee and Food Philosophy
The cafe serves fair trade organic coffee and espresso drinks sourced ethically with attention to environmental and social impact. The menu features thoughtfully sourced food using organic and locally sourced ingredients often purchased directly from farmers. Homemade baked goods include whole wheat and gluten-free options ensuring accessibility for various dietary needs. The vegetarian and vegan-focused menu includes breakfast burritos savory bowls innovative pastries vegan pancakes tofu scramble tacos omelettes breakfast sandwiches and house-made vegan sausage patties. Sunday brunch runs from 9 AM to 12 PM while happy hour operates daily from 5-9 PM featuring $5 wine and $3 beer.
Atmosphere and Design
The space features high vaulted 22-foot wood ceilings an open layout and artistic eclectic decor creating an aesthetically pleasing environment. The cafe buzzes with positive energy attracting a diverse community of locals and visitors. Seating includes counter seats facing Park Avenue tables in the center and additional seating in the back room. The venue is completely wheelchair accessible with an accessible entrance and restroom facilities. Operating hours are 7 AM to 7 PM seven days a week.
Events and Performance Space
Most evenings the dining room converts into an intimate listening room with a modest 5x7 ft stage that can seat up to 50 people or accommodate 70 standing. The room's bouncy acoustics favor acoustic music but the venue welcomes diverse programming including live music poetry comedy burlesque small-scale theater drag and film showings. The space provides a platform for community forums and activism-related events reflecting the cafe's commitment to social engagement.
Open Mic and Music Programming
Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday the venue hosts Tongue open mouth and music night. Sign-up begins at 6:30 PM with performances starting at 7 PM. This anything-goes open mic emphasizes new original thoughtful work and is free open to all and family-friendly. The event welcomes poetry music singing drag and performance art creating a true community talent showcase. Additional events throughout the week include concerts art exhibitions community meetings and cultural programming. All booking inquiries are handled via email with the venue seeking acoustic-friendly performances that align with their intimate space.
Community Impact
The Sentient Bean serves as more than a cafe—it's a community hub where consciousness and creativity converge. The venue's dedication to sustainability fair trade practices environmental stewardship and inclusive programming has made it a beloved institution in Savannah. Whether visitors are enjoying a lavender habanero latte working on laptops attending a concert or participating in community events The Sentient Bean provides a welcoming space that encourages connection reflection and activism.