Karuizawa, Nagano, Japan｜Cafe Raffine

I had banana cake and iced coffee. When I came here about 20 years ago, squirrels also appeared, so I had high hopes for them, but this time I didn't see any. I think it's good to enjoy nature. The taste was still delicious 😋

A small Western-style building quietly standing in a villa town near Kyu-Karuizawa. Judging from the atmosphere, it seems as if a Ghibli-style witch lives there. A lovely lady welcomes you inside the store. He is a very elegant person, and you can tell that he loves the shop. The garden that can be seen from inside is so beautiful that it takes your breath away. It is a garden that shows various expressions depending on the season and weather. The inside is a calm space lined with antiques. Even though it is elegant, I feel a kindness and nostalgia that is not decorated. Well, I would like to tell you that the iced coffee here is exquisite, not to mention the scenery and comfort. Why is it so delicious? At least it's been a year since I drank it, and I still can't figure it out. A refreshing aftertaste, but a definite weighty bitterness. The acidity is suppressed, and the texture is silky. Adding milk or sugar makes it even more delicious, just like a bride's makeover. Of course, the menu includes not only coffee but also cakes. This time I didn't have much time, so I only had coffee, so next time I would like to have a cake by all means. There are three points to note for those who are considering visiting the store in advance. One is that the bicycle parking lot is a little small, so be careful with big cars. Second, it's not cheap. It's not surprising, but it's not cheap because it's a well-known store that is probably loved by executives in the villa district. However, you can enjoy a really high-quality space and taste. I want to say out loud that you should visit at least once before you die. Sparing no expense here will benefit you later. The space and taste of this restaurant will remain vivid in my memory. Third, if possible, I want you to turn off your smartphone and feel the space, scenery, and taste with all five senses. Every time I travel, I eat and drink at local shops, but this place was really great.

Enter the magic house in a fairy tale/ The unique Art Nouveau Mucha style decoration/ The boss lady with a very personal style/ Meet the little prince made in Japan in 1997/ The boss lady’s homemade banana cake is solid and delicious, and the fresh cream is slightly sweet and not greasy/ A coffee shop that you will fall in love with once you visit