Discover the Best Wagyu Steak in the United States
In general, Wagyu beef is considered some of the best in the world. Prized for its intense marbling and delicate flavor, this premium beef is a favorite of food enthusiasts everywhere. Given this, it's no surprise that many people want to know if they can get their hands on some Wagyu beef in the United States.
The short answer is yes, you can find Wagyu beef in America, but it's not always easy to track down. Americans are fiercely proud of their beef, and with good reason: it's some of the best in the world. The cattle that provide America's beef are grass-fed and grain-finished, with a carefully monitored diet to ensure they produce the richest, most marbled meat possible. But what if you could get the same great beef, only even better?
Wagyu vs. Kobe: What's the Difference?
I believe that Wagyu actually means 'Japanese Beef,' and you can get real Wagyu in the US, but it's not easily accessible. Kobe beef is one of the most famous types of Wagyu. True Kobe beef comes from the Kobe region in Japan, and it has specific breeding and feeding requirements. However, you can find American Wagyu, which is a cross-breed with Black Angus cows, in the United States.
Where to Find Premium Wagyu Steak in the U.S.
If you're looking for the best Wagyu steak in the United States, there are a few options. One of the most reliable ways to get true Japanese Wagyu beef is to have it delivered to your door. I buy mine from a company called Crowd Cow. Periodically, they have specials where you can buy it for 'reasonable' prices. The beef is straight from Japan, and it's a great indulgence for special occasions.
Another option is to visit one of the thirty-eight (38) licensed restaurants in the United States that offer Kobe beef from the Kobe region. In only four of these restaurants, you can buy the beef to take home and make it yourself. The Kobe Beef Marketing Distribution Promotion Association provides a comprehensive list of where to go.
Wagyu Steak in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a particularly popular destination for Wagyu enthusiasts. There are at least five restaurants in Vegas that offer Kobe Wagyu steak or beef directly from the Kobe region. Interestingly, most of these restaurants charge around 50 USD per ounce, with a minimum of 4 ounces for Kobe beef. This price is not surprising when you consider that the entire Kobe region manages to produce only about 3000 cows per year.
Why So Expensive?
The high prices of Kobe beef are due to the limited supply and strict regulations. The entire Kobe region produces about 3000 cows each year, making the demand for premium Wagyu beef even more pressing. It's astonishing that there are still this many restaurants offering Kobe beef, considering the limited supply. In fact, it wouldn't surprise anyone if there were displays showing the name and favorite anime characters of each cow in the region.
Conclusion
Whether you're a foodie, an advocate for premium beef, or simply someone who loves a good steak, there are several options for finding authentic Wagyu beef in the United States. From having high-quality Wagyu delivered to your door to dining at licensed restaurants or purchasing directly from Japan, you have a variety of choices. While it may be more expensive, the rich flavor and texture of Wagyu beef make every morsel worth the investment. So, don't hesitate to indulge in the best Wagyu steak the world has to offer.
Keywords: Wagyu beef, Kobe beef, American Wagyu