I want to deliver the seasonal flavors of Okayama. Interview with Tsuruta Rui, manager of Motoya
First, please tell us about the background and establishment of the store.
Tsuruta
Well, Okayama is originally famous for its fruits, so I had a desire to promote that.
The operating company of Motoya (Motoya United Co., Ltd.) started as a fruit store founded in Kurashiki, so there was a strong awareness of food.
Since the fruit store was named "Motoya," the store's name carries the thoughts from the time of its founding.
Why did you decide on a location close to JR Kurashiki Station?
Tsuruta
When creating the store, we had two options: near JR Kurashiki Station or around the Bikan Historical Area.
We wanted to be loved by the locals, so we decided on the area around JR Kurashiki Station, which is more closely connected to the community.
Could you tell us why you chose to specialize in fruit sandwiches?
Tsuruta
I believe fruit sandwiches can bring joy to everyone from children to the elderly if they have the opportunity to buy them.
They are easy to eat and can also be given as souvenirs, so I thought they could have a wider appeal.
Do you have any particular commitment to the fruit sandwiches unique to Motoya?
Tsuruta
Of course, we are particular about the fruits, as well as the bread and fresh cream.
Usually, the fresh cream used in fruit sandwiches often contains vegetable oils, but we use 100% animal-based fresh cream from Hokkaido.
The fat content is high at 42%, but since it does not contain vegetable oils, it has a light aftertaste.
We use 100% domestic wheat bread from Okayama Kimuraya. It is not too assertive and focuses on a moist texture.
Freshness of the fruits is the most important thing.
We purchase only what we need from the market every day.
I look forward to seeing what new products and fruits will be available in the upcoming season.
Tsuruta
As we head into winter (October 2019), the highlight will definitely be strawberries!
The combination of strawberries and fresh cream is outstanding.
Also, we can offer mandarins combined with almond cream, and the "Imo" sandwich featuring two types of sweet potatoes: Anno and Narutokintoki, is a popular product.
As we move into winter, we will also have the "Apple Rum Raisin Cream Cheese," which allows you to enjoy the crispness of fresh apples. This product was popular last year as well.
Developing fruit sandwiches sounds fun.
Tsuruta
Yes, it is.
We are working with the staff to create prototypes to ensure the deliciousness of the fruits comes through.
Basically, I want to use the fruits as they are, so I particularly struggled with cutting pears.
Fruit sandwiches allow you to experience the seasonal flavors directly, so I hope everyone enjoys them throughout the seasons.
Perfect for souvenirs and a little luxury! Seasonal fruit sandwiches in Kurashiki
As a food lover, my souvenirs for my family (and myself) are, of course, fruit sandwiches!
"Delicious! I've never had anything like this!" was the joy of my family.
Surprisingly, the one that the kids enjoyed the most was the pink grapefruit in the middle.
Each one is peeled by hand, and the cream is mixed with lemon peel.
"What else did they have? Are we going again? Let's go together next time!"
The fruit sandwiches from Motoya make everyone in the family happy, to the point where the kids bombarded me with questions.
Once you try them, you'll be thinking, "What should I have next?" and you'll want to visit the store with each season.
It's also very close to JR Kurashiki Station, so please give them a try!
Data on Motoya
| Name | Motoya |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-7-2 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, 2nd floor, Nishi Building |
| Contact | 086-476-5959 |
| Parking | None |
| Business Hours | 11:00 AM - until fruits run out |
| Regular Holiday | Wednesday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation Availability | Yes Can hold items |
| Seats | 4 seats, 2 tables |
| Smoking | Completely non-smoking |
| Website | Kurashiki Fruit Sandwich Motoya: Instagram |
