In March 2024, the long-established and local favorite fruit specialty store “Nangoku Fruits” opened its latest branch in a new building on the grounds of Kego Shrine in Tenjin, Kyushu’s bustling entertainment heart.
What began as a humble neighborhood fruit shop in 1930 has blossomed into Nangoku Fruits, a reputable business loved by locals and handling everything from wholesale to processing and retail, all with an unwavering commitment to elevating the fruit experience. They have direct relationships with farmers who cultivate top-tier produce, ensuring each fruit is enjoyed at its peak by experts who masterfully time its offering. At Nangoku Fruits Parlour, these high-quality fruits are transformed into exquisite sweets, presented in a manner that enhances both their taste and visual appeal. Japanese fruits are famous worldwide for their quality, and here’s a place to try them served up in tantalizing dishes and in a fabulous location.
Consider their delightful fruit sandwiches, for instance. During our visit, we savored American cherries, Pione grapes, kiwi, and pineapple. These four types of perfectly ripe fruits are elegantly encased in fluffy whipped cream between slices of soft bread, creating a harmonious blend that accentuates their natural sweetness. Of course, when you visit, they might use other seasonal fruits, but you can be sure it will be just as good.
The mixed fruit parfait is a standout. This indulgent treat, a testament to Nangoku Fruits Parlour’s dedication, features 7-8 varieties of premium fruits, meticulously packed with handmade vanilla and mango ice cream. The parfait’s visual allure, with its vibrant layers, reflects the meticulous craftsmanship of their pastry chefs.
Equally popular is the charmingly retro pudding à la mode, consistently vying for top customer preference. Presented in a nostalgic Showa-era dish, it includes firm homemade pudding, crunchy almond praline, and a beautifully arranged selection of fruits like melon, citrus, and banana, offering a delightful trip down memory lane.
For brunch or lunch, the luxurious fruit French toast is a must-try. This dish boasts around ten types of seasonal fruits lavishly heaped on a bed of fluffy, custardy French toast, achieving a perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness.
Nestled on the second floor of the newly built Kego Shrine office building (above Blue Bottle Coffee), the parlour offers a serene escape in the city’s vibrant center—a great place to take a break from shopping or sightseeing. The terrace seating provides a splendid view of the main shrine building, definitely one of our new favorite places to chill in Tenjin now.
A unique treat from Nangoku Fruits is their complimentary fruit-infused water. This refreshing beverage, imbued with the essence of fresh fruits, is a delightful touch that enhances the overall experience at Nangoku Fruits Parlour. Oh, and on your way out, you can shop for take-out whole fruit, fruit cocktails, and a variety of sweets. Sweet!
Menu (including 10% consumption tax): Pudding à la mode ¥1,980, Seasonal fruit sandwich ¥1,320, Nangoku Fruits French toast ¥2,200, Mixed fruit parfait ¥2,420, Miyazaki ripe mango parfait ¥2,200 (seasonal limited menu)
