Home to countless delicious dishes and incredible ingredients, Japan is responsible for creating many of the culinary world’s most coveted gastronomic gems. The crowning jewel of these is unanimously considered to be Wagyu beef.
Tales of these cows and the farmers who raise them are shrouded in myth and romance—stories of daily massages and rations of beer add fuel to the interest and speculation. And as long as the Wagyu produced in Japan continues to mystify the eater with its other-worldly levels of marbling and unparalleled taste, we’re certain the legends will continue. In truth, Wagyu refers to specific breeds of cows with privileged genetics that are further enhanced with breeding techniques, a distinct genetic lineage, attention to feed, and idyllic habitats. Features of Japanese Wagyu Beef What makes Japanese Wagyu so special—and what makes its cost so high? It really comes down to the care each cow receives. Our premium Miyachiku Wagyu beef comes from a co-op of 400 farms, with each farmer given the responsibility of looking after 4 cows at a time. These small numbers ensure each animal receives exceptional daily care. This intense attention to every detail translates into beef so tender, juicy, and flavorful that it’s considered by many to be not only the best beef in the world but the best meat. While the animal husbandry techniques cannot be overemphasized, the very special genetics of Wagyu should not be forgotten. Predisposed to a natural abundance of intramuscular fat, known as marbling, this webbing of finely textured fat is what’s responsible for the velvety texture and unparalleled flavor of the beef. Ordering Wagyu Beef Looking for the best place to order your meat? Look no further than Gourmet Food Store. We offer an exhaustive range of portions and presentations. From cooked and sliced to whole slabs waiting to be broken down, you’ll find options for every skill level and price point. We even have custom cut options where you can purchase by the pound, choosing your preferred size and thickness. With regular sales, chef-tested recipes, and deep-dive informational articles on the origins and specifics of this Asian specialty, you’ll love browsing so much more than our product page.