Del Pisa, the New Italian Sensation

By Melline Galani

In many countries around the world, coffee is a big deal, but Italy still remains at the center in terms of taste with its famous espresso. South Korea has its own coffee culture, and those living here for some time are quite familiar with it. What makes it different from other continents is its variety. This variety spans over the type of cafes and also the coffee menu, making it difficult to choose.

In our wonderful city of Gwangju, Dongmyeong-dong is well known for its amazing restaurants, coffee shops, and places to go out with friends. The latest sensation I have discovered here is Del Pisa, an espresso bar serving authentic Italian coffee.

But what exactly is espresso coffee? It is a concentrated form of coffee served in small, strong shots and is the base for many coffee drinks. It is made from the same beans as coffee but is stronger, thicker, and higher in caffeine. Therefore, I thought an espresso bar would not be popular here precisely because Koreans prefer Americano, the lighter version of a coffee, but I was wrong.

I discovered Del Pisa by accident. I was in Dongmyeong-dong at an early hour on a sunny summer day and just saw this place open. I went in craving a cappuccino, the coffee I usually drink. Instead of a cappuccino, which was not on the menu, I ordered a cinnamon cream latte – the best coffee I have ever had in this city and the one that made me a regular at this place.

Del Pisa’s specialty is, of course, espresso, which is cheap in terms of cost but delicious in terms of taste; however, the menu has many other delicacies to meet all tastes. For only 2,000 won you get to taste a real Italian espresso. If you fancy sweeter coffees than their cinnamon cream latte, their Einspanner will conquer you. The prices range from 2,000 to 6,000 won, but the taste is worth every penny. They also serve exquisite handmade cookies to accompany their drinks.

The unfinished-style interior of the coffee shop is very European-esque with Italian accents, making it not only fancy but also cozy and relaxing even on cold winter days. The wooden furniture adds a contrast to the white walls combined perfectly with paintings and other decorations.

Those who know me also know that when I discover something interesting, I take all my friends to the place. In Del Pisa’s case, we all have a unanimous opinion – they do serve the best coffee in Gwangju. For this reason, if you happen to be in the area after 10 a.m., give this place a try. I assure you that you will not regret the decision.

Del Pisa (델피사)
Address: 135 Donggyecheon-ro, Dong-gu, Gwangju 광주 동구 동계천로 135 (동명동)
Operating Hours: 10:00–22:00, closed on Mondays
Phone: 010-6783-1557
Instagram: @delpisa_dongmyeong

The Reviewer
Melline Galani is a Romanian enthusiast, born and raised in the capital city of Bucharest, and currently living in Gwangju. She likes new challenges, learning interesting things, and is incurably optimistic. She loves living life to its fullest and loves the cinnamon cream latte at Del Pisa. Instagram @melligalanis