Cresson River Side Story

Japan, 389-0102 Nagano, Kitasaku District, Karuizawa, 字木戸根680-1
+81 267-46-8037
$$$ Cafe , Dessert shop , Lunch restaurant , Pastry shop , Restaurant
(163 Reviews)

Cresson River Side Story is a charming café nestled amid the stunning landscapes of Karuizawa, Japan, situated conveniently at the end of Kyu Karuizawa Ginza street. This delightful spot beckons visitors with its warm hospitality, inviting atmosphere, and breathtaking views that enhance the overall dining experience.

As you step inside, the ambience is nothing short of enchanting, featuring a tranquil moss garden that promises a serene backdrop to your culinary adventure. Guests have described the overall feel as fabulous, where the combination of friendly service and natural beauty creates a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The menu at Cresson River Side Story highlights the best local ingredients from the Shinshu region, ensuring every dish is a reflection of local flavors and craftsmanship. One of the standout offerings is the afternoon tea set, a delightful presentation that is perfect for a relaxing midday indulgence, though reservations are recommended due to its popularity. If you’re fortunate enough to experience it, be sure to savor the unforgettable apple pie, which has received rave reviews from visitors, all praising its rich flavor and perfect texture.

Many patrons have shared their memorable experiences at Cresson River Side Story. Customer 'AkiraUsa 158' noted, "Dessert is stunning delicious," while 'T Chang' emphasized the sense of family and warmth they felt during their visit, stating, "It was such an unforgettable dining experience." These testimonials showcase not just the delicious offerings, but the sense of community and care that the café radiates.

Another guest, 'Apple A,' recounted how they stumbled upon this gem during their autumn vacation, captivated by the spectacular view that made them linger longer over their meal. The attention to detail, with adorably cute tableware, only adds to the delightful atmosphere, making every visit a feast for the senses.

Whether enjoying a leisurely lunch course in the summer sun or indulging in a luxurious dessert, Cresson River Side Story offers its visitors an experience that feels both exclusive and embraceable. It stands out as a place more akin to a once-in-a-lifetime destination, according to 'Doug F,' who reflected on his lovely time there with a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

In conclusion, Cresson River Side Story is more than just a café; it’s a sanctuary where delicious food meets stunning surroundings, creating a memorable journey for the senses. Don’t miss out on this enchanting experience the next time you find yourself in Karuizawa.

Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Tuesday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Friday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Saturday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Sunday

11:30 AM - 09:00 PM

163 Reviews
AkiraUsa 158

05 Oct 2025

Good spot after stroll Kyu Karuizawa Ginza street. Located at the end of the road. Dessert is stunning delicious. Meal course also well prepared. Don't miss!!

T Chang

03 Oct 2025

We appreciate your hospitality to welcome our family on 12/1. We enjoyed the afternoon tea set and the apple pie as well. It was such an unforgettable dining experience. We shall come again next time.

Apple A

16 Sep 2025

We stumbled upon here on a random stroll in the afternoon during our autumn vacation in 2022. The view was so spectacular we had spent more time taking photos than actually eating our food the food and service was great. Unfortunately we could not get afternoon tea set as it was a reservation only menu so we ordered what's available that day. The tablewares were very cute as well

I H.

23 Jul 2025

Fabulous restaurant showcasing the best local ingredients from Shinshu. Everything is wonderfully done here. The food is delicious, waiters and chefs are top notch, ambience is spectacular overlooking the moss garden, and price is fair for the quality of the dishes. 5 stars!

Doug F

10 Jul 2025

This place has the best service and ambiance anywhere I've been to. I had a really nice lunch course outdoors in summer which was really lovely. I feel it's more of a once in a lifetime rather than regular place to go but maybe I can live a few lives...

Stewart Wan

09 Jul 2025

A decent restaurant with cozy interiors, walking and furnitures, outdoor stunning views, especially seasonal autumn red leaves. Enjoyed their very delicious apple pie and another dessert, forgot the name but with chocolate mousse , citrus and leaves crisps. The apple pie come with fresh vanilla ice cream. Really good and recommended!

munbok

20 Jun 2025

One of the more expensive, high-end restaurants in Karuizawa located in a forested moss garden. I ordered the set lunch on May 18th. Excellent cookery, beautiful plating. The staff were polite and professional. At the end of my meal, the Chef came over to chat. Highly recommended.

Flora Gu

14 Jun 2025

My friend and I checked this place out while we were in Karuizawa in May . Both of us were very impressed by the presentation and quality of all the dishes. You can tell the chef put a lot of thought into creating these dishes. One of the dishes was done with more than 20 kinds of vegetables that are cooked in different ways to create different texture and flavors. We tried 2 set menus, (one is around 8800 jpy, the other is around 12000 jpy). My friend, who is normally not a big fan of vegetables said she also really enjoyed the meal. The servie was great. The waiters there speak English well and they have an English version of the set menu for us, which is a plus. The garden and the restaurant were both beautiful. Would recommend this place if you are interested in trying different local vegetables that are colorful and delicious.

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