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In the bustling streets of Tokyo, particularly at the iconic Shibuya crossing, visitors can explore stunning sights like Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion or experience the majestic views of Mt. Fuji. Yet, for many travelers, a seemingly modest experience awaits at their local convenience store: the renowned 7-Eleven egg salad sandwich<\/strong>. This unassuming sandwich has gained a cult-like status<\/em> among food enthusiasts and is widely regarded as a national treasure in Japan.
Travel enthusiasts frequently turn to various blogs for insights about these iconic sandwiches. Many seek advice on how to transport one home or where to find alternatives in their local areas. Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, feature users sharing their experiences, often highlighting long journeys taken just to enjoy this culinary treasure. The late Anthony Bourdain, a revered figure in gastronomy, famously referred to these sandwiches as “pillows of love”, solidifying their revered status in the culinary landscape.
7-Eleven’s egg salad sandwich expansion
The egg salad sandwich has made its official debut in U.S. 7-Eleven stores. The company announced the launch of their tamago sando, featuring pillowy milk bread and creamy egg salad made with Kewpie mayonnaise. The announcement emphasized the excitement of the launch, stating, “Put the passport away, bb. 7-Eleven’s Egg Salad Sando has officially arrived in the U.S.”
While American fans celebrate this introduction, Canadian customers are currently left out. A spokesperson for 7-Eleven confirmed that the sandwich is only available in the U.S, leaving Canadians eager to try this iconic creation. With over 550 locations from British Columbia to Ontario, it remains to be seen if this sandwich will soon be available in Canada.
The significance of convenience stores in Japan
7-Eleven is more than a convenience store; it is integral to the daily routines of many in Japan. With around 21,000 locations nationwide, the chain has revolutionized food shopping. Reports indicate that the parent company, Seven & I Holdings, has successfully transformed these stores into sought-after food destinations, offering a diverse selection of fresh items, including sandwiches, boxed lunches, and onigiri.
The food revolution in convenience stores
In Japan, convenience stores, commonly referred to as konbini, are multifunctional hubs where individuals can pay bills, send parcels, and purchase concert tickets. With over 50,000 konbini operating nationwide, major players include 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart. A key factor driving growth in these establishments is their focus on fresh food, as they receive multiple daily deliveries of ready-to-eat meals and snacks tailored for busy consumers.
Robert Kirkwood, a frequent traveler to Japan, expressed admiration for the quality of food available in konbini, stating, “The freshness and quality of convenience food in Japan is next level.” Traveling to Japan approximately four times a year for work, he finds these stores to be a reliable source of affordable and delicious meals.
Anticipation and skepticism in the U.S.
7-Eleven plans to introduce over 200 food items in its U.S. locations, sparking interest among fans of Japanese cuisine. Consumers are curious to compare these offerings to their authentic Japanese counterparts. While many express optimism, skepticism remains regarding the authenticity of the U.S. versions. Critics have highlighted differences, including the lack of crustless bread and variations in the egg-to-bread ratio compared to the original.
Responses from the culinary community
Food influencers have taken to social media to discuss the U.S. egg salad sandwich. Jeremy Jacobowitz, a prominent food influencer based in New York, shared his experience with the U.S. version. He described it as pleasant, noting that while the bread was fluffy, it did not fully match the original. He stated, “This won’t give you the exact thing you can get there. But I think it’s pretty good.”
In a notable trend, more than 580,000 Canadians visited Japan in. This surge in travel has sparked interest in bringing the beloved egg salad sandwich to local convenience stores. However, some, like Kirkwood, who is not particularly fond of egg salad, have expressed a desire for Canadian stores to stock famichiki, a popular boneless fried chicken that has developed a devoted following in Japan. “It’s the best,” he states.