The Best Places to Buy Wagyu Beef in New Jersey

Wagyu beef originating from Japan is renowned worldwide for its rich, buttery flavor and extensive marbling. While authentic Japanese Wagyu can cost over $200 per pound, there are more affordable options available domestically. I did some digging and found the best places in New Jersey to get your hands on this melt-in-your-mouth, decadent beef without breaking the bank.

What Exactly is Wagyu Beef?

Wagyu refers to four specific breeds of cattle – Japanese Black, Japanese Brown Japanese Shorthorn and Japanese Polled. While Wagyu cattle are raised all over the world now, the original breeds hail from Japan.

True Japanese Wagyu cattle are revered for their genetics and rearing. They are massaged and fed a strict diet to produce the unique, extensive marbling that Wagyu is famous for. This fat content is what gives the beef its rich, umami flavor and velvety texture.

Outside of Japan, the term Wagyu has come to mean any crossbreed cattle with Wagyu genetics. American Wagyu is typically crossed with Black Angus cattle. When bred carefully, these cows still yield the coveted marbling, tenderness and flavor – just not to the degree of purebred Japanese Wagyu.

Where to Buy Wagyu Beef in New Jersey

While not as readily available as standard supermarket ground beef you can find quality Wagyu from a few excellent sources in New Jersey

1. Cleaver Co.

With both a shop in Hoboken and a stall at numerous New Jersey farmers markets, Cleaver Co. is my top choice for Wagyu beef in the state.

They offer humanely raised, 100% fullblood Wagyu beef from endangered Japanese breeds. While still pricey, their Wagyu costs just a fraction of imported Japanese beef.

I’m a big fan of their Wagyu burger blend, New York strips and ribeyes You can even get Wagyu dog treats for your pup! Check their website for upcoming farmer’s market locations

2. FreshDirect

Believe it or not, you can order quality Wagyu beef online from grocery delivery service FreshDirect.

They offer both Japanese and American Wagyu in different cuts like ribeye, tenderloin, ground beef and short ribs. The Japanese Wagyu costs more, but both are high-quality.

I like getting boneless short ribs from FreshDirect to braise or grill – absolute heaven! Delivery is limited to specific regions of New Jersey, so check your zip code first.

3. Whole Foods Market

Several Whole Foods Market locations in New Jersey stock Wagyu beef when available. Selection varies by store and seasonality, but they typically have ribeyes and ground beef.

While pricier than regular beef, Whole Foods’ Wagyu is cheaper than specialty stores. Their meat department employees are also very knowledgeable if you need help selecting a cut or cooking method.

Check the locations in Paramus, Edgewater, Marlton or Princeton for in-store availability. You may also be able to order Wagyu for delivery through Amazon.

4. Japanese Markets

There are a handful of Japanese grocery stores and markets scattered throughout New Jersey that are worth checking out for authentic Wagyu beef.

Mitsuwa Marketplace in Edgewater stocks Japanese Wagyu cuts in their refrigerated meat cases. I’ve found ribeye, brisket and ground beef there previously.

J Sweets in Ridgefield also advertises Japanese Wagyu on their site. Call ahead to check availability and pricing.

For a more curated selection, check out the monthly Wagyu beef tastings offered by Meat King in Englewood Cliffs. The owner personally travels to Japan to hand select each month’s offerings.

5. Online Retailers & Butcher Shops

If you still can’t track down Wagyu, there are online retailers that ship to New Jersey and high-end butcher shops that can source it.

Sites like Snake River Farms or Lone Mountain Wagyu have supplies of American-raised Wagyu and overnight shipping.

For authentic Japanese Wagyu, check out Holy Grail Steak Company. I’d call ahead to The Better Meat Co. in Englewood or Bedminster Meats to see if they can procure Wagyu for you as well.

How to Cook Wagyu Beef

Cooking Wagyu beef correctly is key to experiencing its decadent texture and flavor. With its high fat content, you’ll want to use gentler cooking methods.

For steaks, cooking over high heat is a no-go as it will cause the fat to burn. I prefer pan searing Wagyu in a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F. Let the steaks rest before slicing against the grain.

For a showstopper, try sous vide Wagyu steaks. Cook the vacuum-sealed steaks in a water bath at 130°F for 1-4 hours depending on thickness. Sear quickly afterwards.

Wagyu ground beef shines in burgers, meatballs or Bolognese sauce. Go easy on other bold flavors so the beef can be the star.

Boneless short ribs are ideal for braising in red wine or adobo until fall-apart tender. Wagyu brisket also smokes beautifully for 12+ hours – just keep the temps low.

Is the Hype Real?

After cooking and tasting my fair share of bougie Wagyu beef, I can say the hype is real. The buttery richness and mouthfeel really set it apart from even the best prime steaks.

That said, Wagyu definitely isn’t an everyday indulgence for me. The price commands respect and care in preparation. I like to pull it out for date nights or special occasions.

If you’re just dabbling, I’d recommend starting with American Wagyu or Wagyu burger blends. The exceptional marbling amps up the flavor without quite the sticker shock.