A bit of fruit

If you keep your eyes peeled on the streets of Tokyo, periodically you'll discover a fruit parlor.  These fancy and expensive cafes serve designer fruit and desserts.  You can also buy those expensive boxes of fruit intended for fancy gifts that Japan is known for.  When I was a child, I remember seeing news coverage of these fruit parlors and their square watermelons and other unbelievable fruit.  I was completely enthralled to see such fancy fruit.

Some of these shops have been around for a very long time.  They take fruit to a whole new level that Harry & David can only dream of.  Kyobashi Sembikiya has been selling designer fruit since 1881.  It is one of Tokyo's oldest "fruit specialty stores." 

My son adores fruit.  I honestly think if he had to pick one thing to eat the rest of his life, it would be strawberries.  So when we passed the famed fruit parlor on our way to Yoyogi Park, just steps away from Meiji-jingumae <Harajuku> Station's exit 5, I made a mental note that it would be a great place for a treat if the stars aligned. 

I like to spoil my kid.  I admit it.  Whether we are going on special adventures with his interests in mind, or buying a special treat, I love giving him exciting things.  While many parents might hesitate taking their child to a fancy restaurant or café, I jump in with both feet.  I think not only is it a great opportunity to give him something special that we'll both enjoy, but it is also a great opportunity to practice table manners. 

After a fun time at the park, he told me he was hungry and wanted a snack.  I casually asked him if he would like some fruit.  He jumped up and down and responded with an emphatic yes.

We walked back to Kyobashi Sembikiya and asked for a table to two.  My son perused the menu and asked for the biggest dessert they offer.  I laughed and grabbed the menu from him.  I narrowed his choices and he picked a beautiful fruit parfait. 

While we waited for his parfait and my tea, we talked and joked around.  We also watched the herds of people walking up and down the street. 

When it arrived, my son's eyes got really big.  The tiny ball of ice cream and 2 balls of sorbet were covered in a beautiful array of fruit and topped with an orchid.  He could barely wait for me to snap a photo because he was so ready to dig in. 

His first bite produced a groan of happiness.  He was in fruit heaven.  He kindly shared with me and I felt so honored.  It was the best fruit I have ever eaten.  Each bite was incredible, juicy, and the perfect texture. 

We both totally understood why fruit parlors have been in business for over 135 years.  The price was steep - ¥2,160 ($20) for a single parfait - and it was worth every yen.  My tea was also lovely, but it was just a cup of tea. 

Our little parlor excursion was so much fun.  We felt so lucky to be enjoying such a lavish treat.  I couldn't have asked for a better date.  And the fruit just made it that much better.