Good Earth Cafe - Calgary

The Good Earth Cafe, around the corner from where I work, has become my office away from the office. I must take as many meetings there as I do in the tired and stale surroundings of my actual office. The thing is, a lot of important work gets done within the context of relationships. And the Good Earth Cafe is a perfect setting for building relationship--business or otherwise. It begins with the attractiveness of the place itself, both outside and in. It's earth tones create a warm human atmosphere, unlike so many urban cafes and coffee houses that work so hard to exude "cool". The friendly staff take it from there, chatting easily, seeming actually to take an interest in your order, whether it be food or drink. Show up more than a few times and they're likely to have memorized your coffee preferences. The food itself is fresh baked and "home kitchen" presented. The muffins have shrunk in recent years, as has happened in other chains, but they're still delicious and consoling, as are the soups and the chicken pot pie, should you need something hot. But like most regulars, I usually order a coffee--large, dark roast, or, for an occasion treat, a latte--and invite my guest to choose from a wide assortment of teas and other alternatives, some of them seasonal favourites, like their pumpkin latte or iced Italian sodas. If it's first thing, I get the breakfast panini (with bacon), add a little Frank's Hot Sauce, and call it breakfast.On Friday evenings the place transforms into a neighbourhood "speakeasy" featuring an open mic for budding musicians. Saturday and Sunday mornings it reverts to a quiet place to read your morning paper and contemplate the open day ahead. Altogether, the Good Earth Cafe is a great place to gather with friends or associates and forge relationships that feel only a step away from hearth and home. Other places can be self-consciously cool. But its effortless warmth makes the Good Earth a better meeting place.

I have been coming here for many years, as it is close to my home, but my friends in other parts of the city enjoy meeting me here as well. Good Earth does not give off a chain vibe, but rather a community vibe, and there are special events here, different papers and info about whats going on in the area. Their food and beverages are consistently good, as is the service. The atmosphere is spacious but cozy, which is great for socializing or else working or studying. Very recommended.

Nice selection of light lunch offerings, place had a nice vibe with lots of comfortable seating. Quick coffee and lunch, convenient and staff were friendly and prompt.

Loved my coffee, averagely priced. Atmosphere was good, relatively quite so you could really enjoy your drink. I will be back.

Quick stop with family. Coffee, tea, and muffins - all very good. Good location and very nice layout. Good service - another little hidden gem!