Los Angeles' luxury grocery store Erewhon is making headlines with a $19 strawberry, imported from Japan and praised for its exceptional sweetness. The Tochiaika strawberry has sparked debate online, with some calling it the ultimate indulgence and others dismissing it as an overpriced gimmick.
In a city where luxury knows no bounds, Los Angeles' upscale grocery chain Erewhon has introduced a new indulgence: a single strawberry priced at an astonishing $19. This premium fruit, imported from Kyoto, Japan, by the brand Elly Amai, has become the talk of the town, sparking debates about culinary opulence and consumerism.
The star of this gastronomic spectacle is the Tochiaika strawberry, a heart-shaped variety cultivated in Japan's Tochigi prefecture, often referred to as the "strawberry kingdom." These berries are meticulously grown to meet exacting standards, ensuring a sweet flavor with minimal acidity and a flawless appearance. The painstaking cultivation process contributes to their hefty price tag.
The $19 strawberry gained viral attention when Los Angeles-based influencer Alyssa Antoci shared her tasting experience on TikTok. In her video, Antoci described the berry as "the best strawberry I've ever had," expressing genuine astonishment at its flavor. Her review, however, elicited mixed reactions online. Some viewers mocked the extravagant price, suggesting that the cost influences perceived taste, while others expressed curiosity about the premium fruit.
Erewhon is no stranger to high-priced, health-centric products, often collaborating with celebrities to create exclusive items. The introduction of the $19 strawberry aligns with the store's reputation for offering unique and premium goods that cater to a clientele willing to pay a premium for exclusivity and quality.