If you are a meat lover and planning a trip to Japan, definitely you must to try a Wagyu beef tasting. This is one of the world’s finest foods.
We discovered a small izakaya in Nara named izakaya Tunohuri and ordered a whole plate with 9 types of Yamato beef steak. The taste was absolutely incredible, tender and so much worth it!
What is Yamato Beef?
Yamato Beef, also known as Yamato-gyu, is a high-quality brand of Wagyu beef originating from Nara Prefecture in Japan. It is renowned for its rich marbling, tenderness, and distinct flavor, which are characteristic of premium Wagyu beef.
The address is 21 Higashimuki Minamimachi, Nara, 630-8216. The restaurant is located at main street of Nara and they don’t require a reservation.
Why is Wagyu beef so expensive?
Wagyu beef comes from specific breeds of Japanese cattle known for their unique genetic predisposition to produce high levels of marbling (intramuscular fat). The careful selection and breeding programs enhance these traits, making Wagyu beef exceptionally tender and flavorful.
In izakaya Tunohuri you can taste a Wagyu beef and they serve a meat from the different parts of the beef.
How does Wagyu beef taste?
Rich and Buttery flavor: The high-fat content in Wagyu beef, particularly its intramuscular fat, gives it a rich, buttery flavor. This fat melts at a lower temperature, enveloping the meat with a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Tender Texture: The marbling in Wagyu beef ensures a tender texture that almost disintegrates when you bite into it. This tenderness is a hallmark of high-quality Wagyu, setting it apart from other types of beef.
Juiciness: The abundant fat content also contributes to the meat’s juiciness. Each bite is succulent, providing a burst of flavor and moisture that enhances the overall eating experience.
In summary, Wagyu beef offers a unique culinary experience characterized by its rich, buttery flavor, extraordinary tenderness, and complex umami profile, making it a highly sought-after delicacy among beef connoisseurs.
We highly recommend izakaya Tunohuri, English menu is available and you can pay by credit card or cash. For whole set with 9 types of Yamato beef steak we payed 2 300 Japanese yen (about 15 USD).
We highly recommend their salads and desserts too.
Bon appetite!
