When I first laid my eyes on Canal Cafe from a passing train in summer, I was impressed by one thing only – an expansive waterfront patio set for al fresco dining – somewhat of a luxury in Tokyo. I made a mental note and a further research showed that not only is it a lovely place for meal outdoors, but it actually has a beautiful view in spring, when all the cherry trees lined up along the canal come to full bloom! Cafe actually is part of Tokyo Suijyo Club, the capital’s oldest boat house which has been around since 1918. There is an indoor restaurant with expansive, more formal menu featuring Italian fare (including fresh Neapolitan pizza roasted in the wood-burning oven). A spacious wooden deck set in a cafe style, however, seemed to attract more diners. You order one of the set meals or dessert at a counter, take a seat and when the buzzer goes off, pick up your food. I opted for seafood spaghetti and sakura pudding, both of which were surprisingly tasty. Although, the view of the blooming sakura is undeniably the biggest charm of this place and makes it a great spot for cherry blossom viewing in spring. I found it to be a perfect alternative to traditional hanami in the park on the ground. You can also rent one of the colorful boats (just like at a Chidorigafuchi boathouse 20-minute walk away, sans a 2-hour wait).
Details: 〒162-0825 Tokyo, 新宿区Kagurazaka, 1−9; Mon-Sun 11:30 am till 11:00 pm.
xoxo, nano
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These pictures are stunning!! Are most days that clear and beautiful? Visiting Japan during the cherry blossoms blooming is definitely on my travel bucket list.
Hi Sara! Thank you so much for reading. Spring is actually quite rainy so I was lucky I guess. I hope you make it to Japan soon!
What a lovely place! Dining outside always feels that extra bit special, especially when surrounded by these scenes – just so stunning! :) I love all of the colours.
Thank you Marcella! It was indeed a very special place :)
Such beautiful photography. Love that pasta shot with all the pink petals fallen on the floor.
What a gorgeous spot!
What a dreamy cafe! Spring is by far my favorite time of year, so this spot looks like absolute perfection to me! I love all of the flowers, and the water makes such a pretty backdrop too. What a great find!
Thank you! It was such a pretty spot I really couldn’t believe my eyes. :)
Oh Nano, what a dreamy alternative for a hanami location! What type of pudding was the Sakura pudding? Was reminiscing with some friends about Japan last night who also love it there & was telling them how I regret not buying more sakura treats there & to bring home to London – surprisingly hard to find here even in some of the specialty Japanese stores!
Honestly I don’t even know what type, but the taste was divine :) Hope you make it back!