Hoshino Resort is making waves in Karuizawa with two exciting culinary offerings this spring. The first is a towering 2.5-meter tall "BEB Special Huge Afternoon Tea," available at the BEB5 Karuizawa resort until June 30, 2025. The second is the upcoming opening of a crepe cafe, "Hygge by ØC," set to debut on April 28, 2025, at Harunire Terrace. Both experiences promise to delight guests with unique themes and flavors.
The "BEB Special Huge Afternoon Tea" features a honey and cheese theme, showcasing an array of mini cakes and baked goods that incorporate these delicious ingredients. This extravagant afternoon tea is served daily from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at TAMARIBA, exclusively for hotel guests. At a price of 3,800 yen per person, which includes a drink, reservations are required at least a day in advance via the official website. However, same-day orders may be accommodated while supplies last.
Designed to resemble a honeycomb, the afternoon tea arrangement consists of various honeycomb-shaped wooden frames, creating a visually striking centerpiece that stands an impressive 2.5 meters tall. Guests will enjoy a playful experience as they reach for sweets and savories, which include mini quiches, fresh cheese, and two types of honey served alongside scones. The first drink offered is a sparkling mead, a honey wine, which adds a unique twist to the traditional tea experience. For non-alcoholic options, guests can choose from honey lemon sparkling, honey tea, Earl Grey, herbal teas, or apple juice.
In addition to the towering afternoon tea, the resort is also introducing a "mini honey afternoon tea set" that encourages guests to assemble their own creations, resembling a flower garden with bees buzzing around. This interactive element adds a fun dimension to the afternoon tea experience.
As if that weren't enough, the Karuizawa Hoshino Area will soon welcome "Hygge by ØC," a crepe cafe that emphasizes a cozy atmosphere and high-quality ingredients. The cafe, whose name translates to "cozy place" in Danish, aims to provide a warm and inviting space for guests to enjoy delicious crepes made from carefully selected materials. The chef behind the cafe has crafted a special sugar butter crepe recipe, drawing from extensive culinary experience abroad. The crepes will be served in a unique style, allowing diners to cut into warm crepes with cold butter, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Hygge by ØC will also offer a limited takeout option, featuring mini crepes with azuki butter, perfect for enjoying while strolling through the picturesque surroundings of Harunire Terrace. The cafe's operating hours will be from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last orders taken at 5:30 PM. Prices for the menu include sugar butter crepes at 1,320 yen, takeout mini crepes at 660 yen, and coffee also priced at 660 yen, all including tax.
Harunire Terrace, where the new cafe will be located, is celebrating its 16th anniversary in July 2025. This charming area is designed to harmonize with nature, featuring nine buildings that house 16 unique shops and restaurants, creating a small town atmosphere. Visitors can expect to enjoy a range of dining options, including Italian, Chinese, and soba restaurants, alongside cozy cafes.
As the spring season unfolds, both the "BEB Special Huge Afternoon Tea" and "Hygge by ØC" promise to enhance the culinary landscape of Karuizawa. With their emphasis on quality ingredients, unique presentations, and inviting atmospheres, these offerings are sure to attract both locals and visitors alike, eager to indulge in delightful culinary experiences.
