I admit that I was influenced to try this by TikTok. And I regret nothing. Caviar has this aura of mystery and intrigue, and Imperia leans into this while also making caviar feel more accessible than it would if you ordered it at a restaurant with a snooty waiter peering down their nose at you. Case in point: I ate mine with crème fraîche, chives, and kettle potato chips. While wearing pajamas. In bed. And every single mouthful was fantastic, and nobody was judging me based on my ability to pronounce things or whether or not I knew how to open the tin (which I didn't until I googled it). This little container of fish eggs is sourced from river beluga, or kaluga, at sustainable fishing farms.
It can be kept in the fridge for up to three weeks, unopened, though the company recommends consuming it within a week of purchase; It should be consumed within 48 hours once opened. You can shop add-ons, too, such as a mother-of-pearl spoon, which doesn't impart any flavors that could alter the experience. And the experience is downright fantastic. The caviar is pleasing to look at, with a dark-brown and amber hue, and the flavor is like the ocean concentrated into a tiny drop—in the very best way. The eggs are large and mild, with a buttery, nutty flavor, a salty kick, and a velvety texture that pairs well with blini. Or potato chips. You do you.