Feeling Earthy
By Melline Galani
Korean coffee culture has ascended in a great way, with visitors now being able to choose from a multitude of trendy cafes, each equipped with fancy decorations and matching menus. Whether you want a cappuccino or just want to sit back and relax in a pleasant atmosphere, the wide offering satisfies even the most demanding tastes.
For all of us living in Gwangju and its suburbs, Mudeung Mountain is not only the closest and most accessible hiking destination but also a recreational one. As a Gwangju resident, I often find myself driving to the mountain just to admire the scenery, take a breath of fresh air, eat something appetizing, or just take a walk in the woods. On one of my journeys, I discovered what is now the main attraction of the mountain: Café Earthy!
It is located just a two-minute drive from the Chungjangsa (충장사) shrine or a ten-minute walk from the bus stop with the same name, on the left side. Its huge garden is among the attractions one can experience there. I would argue Café Earthy is basically a small park in itself rather than a mere coffee shop.
The main building has two floors, wide windows, and simple but beautiful decorations. There is another glass building situated near the main one and a lot of tables situated all over the garden. During winter, some of the outside tables are covered with a special vinyl and transformed into heated igloos for those who still want to enjoy having coffee outside in a glamping-like environment. In summer, the shade of the trees not only protects against the sun’s rays but also provides coolness. Hence the place is always filled with visitors despite the season, time of day, or weather.
Nowadays, Café Earthy is very popular and a must-see destination. Being a pet-friendly place (in the garden only), one will see many cute dogs playing joyously outside together with children. During nighttime when the lights are on, it transforms into a magic place perfect for taking Instagramable pictures.
The menu covers a variety of beverages from coffee to ades, teas, smoothies, and other special drinks. However, the price range for drinks is between 5,000 and 8,000 won. In my case, I found the cappuccino there to be tasty. They also serve desserts, and my favorite, which is also their signature dish, is the fruit waffle. The prices for desserts vary from 7,000 to 15,000 won. It is a bit pricey, but compared to other expensive coffee shops I have visited in the area, I would say their taste is the best.
For those who want to combine a relaxing time over coffee with outdoor activities, there are trails nearby that lead to other villages in the area. The coffee shop is also a popular destination for a romantic date.
Visiting Café Earthy is a healing experience. As their slogan says, “Incorporate Nature” into your coffee-drinking experience, or just relax in a beautifully fresh environment.
Photographs by Melline Galani.
Café Earthy (카페얼씨)
- Address: 939 Geumgok-dong, Buk-gu, Gwangju 광주 북구 금곡동 939
- Operating Hours: 10:00–21:00 (daily)
- Phone: 0507-1395-2086
- Instagram: @cafe__earthy_
The Reviewer
Melline Galani is a Romanian enthusiast, born and raised in the capital city of Bucharest, and now living in Gwangju. She likes new challenges, learning interesting things, and is incurably optimistic. She loves living life to its fullest and spending a relaxing time at Café Earthy. Instagram: @melligalanis