Japanese crown melons, often dubbed “the king of fruits,” are a renowned delicacy in the agricultural world, particularly prized for their exquisite taste and premium quality. HMart’s Upper West Side location has these luxurious melons on sale for $130, discounted from $160, enticing shoppers with the promise of an indulgent treat. With only four melons remaining in stock as of Thursday, the urgency to purchase them is palpable, suggesting that these highly sought-after fruits are flying off the shelves. The melons are specifically the Shizuoka crown variety, cultivated in Japan’s Shizuoka prefecture, and they come beautifully packaged in a stylish black gift box adorned with gold lettering, reflecting their high status and appeal.
Known for their exceptional sweetness and rich flavor, Japanese crown melons are characterized by their silky texture that allegedly melts in the mouth. This unique fruit is among the priciest options in New York City, reflecting its rare status in the produce market. Notably, each melon features a T-shaped stem, which is emblematic of its unique growing method known as “one tree, one fruit.” This technique involves nurturing a single melon on the vine to ensure that all the plant’s nutrients are concentrated into it, yielding an unparalleled flavor and quality. The cultivation process is meticulous and demanding, requiring constant care regarding temperature, humidity, and watering, all essential to developing the desired taste and texture.
In order to earn the coveted crown seal of approval, each melon must adhere to strict criteria concerning flavor, sugar content, appearance, and ripeness, adding to both its exclusivity and allure. The melons serve not only as a luxury item but also as a healthy snack, being rich in potassium, as well as vitamins A and C. Upon harvest, these fruits enter a unique ripening phase and should be kept at room temperature before consumption. To fully experience their flavor, refrigeration is advised for two to three hours prior to eating, ensuring the melon’s texture and taste are optimally presented.
Typically, these luscious melons weigh around 3.3 pounds, placing them between the size of a bocce ball and a bowling ball. Butterfield Market, located on Lexington Avenue, is another source for these coveted melons but is currently out of stock, although a fresh shipment is expected soon. The market reportedly sells around 36 melons weekly when they are available, illustrating the high demand for this premium fruit in New York City.
Dr. Loulia Gourari, a local who recently perused HMart’s crown melons, noted the significant price point, considering it a bold choice for fruit. However, she also acknowledged that such a lavish gift would be ideal for someone who already has everything. This sentiment is echoed throughout the city as the melons not only serve as a luxurious treat for oneself but also as an extravagant gift item for special occasions.
For those unable to acquire the melons in-store, there are online options available. Websites like Ikigai Fruits and Melissa’s Produce provide delivery services for these prized melons, with prices ranging from $159 to $177. Though they are costly, these alternatives still offer an accessible means to indulge in the king of fruits, bringing a taste of luxury directly to consumers’ doorsteps.
