Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura Kyukaruizawa — Restaurant in Karuizawa

Before my opinion, one disclaimer is that I came here for dinner and not the bakery. So those looking for a review on the bread keep scrolling.

First things first, the atmosphere in the restaurant is very modern and the lighting goes with the general feeling like chicken and gravy. Most seats in the restaurant has a view of the whole floor from the bakery to the bar to even where the chefs work. Music also keeps the place lively while not interrupting your meal. In terms of what is on the menu, there are over 30 things (just a estimate) but a surprisingly small number of main dishes. Then again that means there are more appetizers then more combinations of food to try. Most things are quite pricy and would cost about 4000 minimum per person if each person has a main and a appetizer.

The food quality here is great but can be beaten by some restraunts for the same price. But that is only for some specific foods. I would suggest getting a variety of things instead of sticking to one dish. Within those dishes that you choose make sure you get a bread related dish. In my case it was the pizza. Unlike most pizzas they made it like you make bread. The "crust" was not crispy but instead fluffy like the insides of French bread but also feels like mochi once it's in your mouth. Although not impossible i find it somewhat challenging to be vegan and eat here. Most dishes consist of meat and relies on ordering a variety of dishes to get a good balance of foods.

For a formal or special dinner I would definitely...

If you're ever in Karuizawa, you have to check this place out. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and enjoy every bite.

The atmosphere is cozy and stylish, with big windows and a nice outdoor terrace — perfect for a quiet breakfast or lunch. The staff is super friendly too, which makes the experience even better.

The first thing you’ll notice is how cozy and welcoming the space feels. The interior is bright and stylish, but the real gem is the serene backyard terrace. It’s beautiful all year round, but in the winter, it turns into a quiet, snowy retreat — the kind of place where you can sip hot coffee, eat freshly baked bread, and just relax while watching soft snow fall around you. It’s honestly magical.

Whether you're picking up pastries or sitting down for a quiet lunch, Sawamura is the kind of place that leaves an impression. It’s peaceful, delicious, and just feels good to be there — especially when everything is covered in snow.

The highlight here is definitely the bread — they take it seriously. Everything is freshly baked, and you can taste the difference. I had my hojicha latte and loving every single sip of it.

This spot is absolutely on my itinerary for my...

Food was good. Slightly over priced compared to western prices. However the french toast was extremely overpriced for $17 CAD or 1700 yen. I thought I would get a full meal seat, however it was just a slice of bread dipped in egg. It was a good single slice of french toast, but absolutely not $17. Maybe $7 max. I recommend getting the standard breakfast meal set, better for your value. I had an allergy and couldn't eat the salad, they weren't able to accommodate or have an alternative side dish like potatoes or hash. I understand Japanese culture doesn't allow for adjustments, however if this restaurant is really trying to appeal to foreigners or present itself as a western style restaurant, they should at least have some alternatives for people with dietary restrictions. All western diners provide some basic flexibility for their customers. This is my feedback for the area of improvement. This would improve service quality a lot more. My wife's breakfast meal was great, however I was disappointed with my french toast set meal...