Shopping additive-free dry fruits at Jiyugaoka: A LA CARTE

by BELONGING JAPAN 18 February 2024

written by BELONGING JAPAN 18 February 2024

It’s true that many people in Japan struggle to find additive-free ingredients, even though they want safe food for themselves and their families. While organic fruits are becoming more accessible, finding dried fruits without additives can be challenging. But the desire for delicious, additive-free dried fruits remains. In such cases, visiting “A La Carte,” the dried fruit store in Jiyugaoka, could be a great choice. For the interview with the founder of A La Carte, please refer to this page.

A specialty store dedicated to additive-free dried fruit

“A La Carte,” welcomes you with a wide variety of dried fruits as you enter. They offer dried fruits made from fresh fruits sourced from various regions of Japan, such as Gold Kiwi from Fukuoka Prefecture, Setouchi Green Lemon from Ehime, and dried strawberries made from the “Tochiotome” brand strawberries from Yamagata. For example, the “Setouchi Green Lemon” is grown on Oomishima Island in Ehime Prefecture without pesticides or wax, and it is finished without sugar or preservatives, making it an additive-free product. It can be added to black tea or carbonated water to add a refreshing acidity, or when baked with chicken or fish, it eliminates any unpleasant odors and enhances the flavor. This is particularly pleasing because many lemons sold in supermarkets are coated with preservatives or wax.

Rare Flavors from Around the World

Japan is rare in the world for being able to enjoy all four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Naturally, fruits also have seasonal flavors, and at A La Carte, you can enjoy dried fruits that match each season. However, that’s not all; A La Carte’s charm lies in being able to taste dried fruits from around the world. For example, they offer additive-free dates from Israel. These large, seeded dates are finished without sugar or additives, and their substantial size makes them perfect for slicing vertically and enjoying with citrus peels, nuts, and other toppings.

Daily Delight, Available Both In-Store and Online

Indulge, in the delight of dried fruits whether you enjoy them as they are or use them to enhance the flavors of mineral water, carbonated water, tea or hot wine. A La Carte offers sets with packaged dried fruits that can be conveniently added to your favorite beverages making them a fantastic choice for gifting. While you have the option to purchase dried fruits online through A La Carte’s website I personally recommend visiting their store. It’s fun to learn delicious ways to enjoy them from the knowledgeable staff, and tasting a variety of dried fruits while in the store is a unique experience. Enjoy finding your favorite taste at A La Cart!