The Best Spots to Savor Wagyu Beef in Philadelphia

Philadelphia may be best known for its cheesesteaks, but the city’s dining scene extends far beyond sandwiches. In recent years, more Philadelphia restaurants have started serving wagyu beef, reflecting diners’ growing appetite for this luxuriously fatty, flavorful meat. Keep reading to learn all about wagyu beef and where to find the best selections in Philadelphia.

What is Wagyu Beef?

Wagyu refers to four Japanese cattle breeds – Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, Japanese Shorthorn, and Japanese Polled. The word “wa” means Japanese, while “gyu” means cow. Kobe beef, from the Kobe region of Japan, is perhaps the most famous type of wagyu beef worldwide.

In the United States, wagyu refers to any cattle that are at least partially descended from full-blooded Japanese wagyu cattle. American wagyu combines the extraordinary genetic traits of Japanese wagyu with American cattle breeds.

No matter its origin, authentic wagyu beef is prized for its extensive marbling, or intricate fat running through the meat. Special feeding and care practices enhance this marbling. Wagyu cattle are massaged and fed beer, brushing, and other supplements for optimal flavor and tenderness.

This beautiful marbling gives wagyu beef a signature taste and texture, with a lower melting point than other beef fat When cooked, the marbling creates an ultra-rich, buttery flavor and soft, velvety mouthfeel The best wagyu steaks can earn A5 grading, the top level for quality.

Where to Find Wagyu Beef in Philadelphia

Years ago, wagyu beef was nearly impossible to find in Philadelphia. But as the city’s dining scene matures, more restaurants now offer this premium meat. Here are some top spots to enjoy wagyu steaks, burgers, and more:

Barclay Prime

This modern upscale steakhouse is renowned for its elegant atmosphere and indulgent wagyu selections. Both Japanese and American wagyu from Snake River Farms are regularly featured on Chef Michael Solomonov’s menu. Standouts include wagyu ribeye and chateaubriand for two. Enjoy with truffle creamed spinach or foie gras.

Butcher & Singer

Butcher & Singer evokes an old-school steakhouse vibe with mahogany booths and white tablecloths. Their menu centers around dry-aged prime steaks and seafood towers, but also includes rotating wagyu offerings. Check for Snake River Farms wagyu striploin or other cuts served a la carte or butcher’s cut.

Laurel

Nicholas Elmi’s intimate hot spot Laurel made waves in 2019 by earning two Michelin stars. Their ever-changing tasting menus often incorporate wagyu beef in creative ways. Previous standout dishes include wagyu tartare with black garlic aioli and wagyu short rib with fermented peppers. Reservations are essential to experience Laurel’s wagyu creations

Urban Farmer

The rustic chic ambiance at Logan Square’s Urban Farmer pairs nicely with their classic steakhouse offerings. Alongside dry-aged selections, their menu features rotating wagyu cuts like strip loin and ribeye from Snake River Farms and other U.S. wagyu purveyors. Don’t miss their indulgent side of lobster mac and cheese.

The Love

Stephen Starr’s The Love in Rittenhouse Square offers a fun, funky atmosphere with pops of color everywhere. Their diverse menu ranges from crispy Brussels sprouts to shrimp dumplings to a wagyu cheesesteak with cave-aged cheddar and caramelized onions on a fresh-baked semolina roll. It puts a unique twist on a Philly classic.

Parts & Labor Butcher Shop

Stop by this whole animal butcher shop and restaurant in Kensington for high-quality wagyu and wagyu burgers. Their ever-changing selection includes ground wagyu, strips, ribeyes, tenderloins and sometimes A5 Japanese wagyu. Call ahead to check their latest offerings. Pick up other cuts and gourmet groceries while you’re there.

Rouge

Rittenhouse Square’s Rouge serves contemporary French-inspired cuisine in an elegant red-hued dining room. Along with dishes like roasted duck breast and searedscallops, Rouge periodically offers a Snake River Farms wagyu filet mignon entree special. Pair it with their standout potato gratin side.

Frankford Hall

This sprawling Bavarian beer garden inside Reading Terminal Market seems like an unlikely place to find wagyu beef. But their menu does feature a Japanese wagyu burger with red dragon cheese and an onion-bacon marmalade served on a pretzel bun. Enjoy yours with one of their many German brews on draft.

The Olde Bar

The Olde Bar is a Philadelphia institution known for its chilled martinis and throwback vibes. Their menu includes pub fare like brick chicken and mussels alongside upscale entrees. Splurge on their rotating wagyu strip loin served with a red wine demi-glace and truffle mashed potatoes.

Wagyu Beef Buying and Cooking Tips

Now that you know the top places to enjoy wagyu beef in Philadelphia, here are a few final tips:

• Expect high prices – wagyu is rare and expensive to produce. Steaks range from $50 to $150 on average.

• Stick to medium rare or less when cooking wagyu beef to keep it tender and allow the fat to melt properly.

• Ribeye, striploin, and filet mignon are classic wagyu cuts. Ribeye offers the most marbling.

• Avoid heavy sauces or spices that will overpower the wagyu’s delicate flavor. Salt and pepper is all you need.

• Take your time and savor each bite of these special splurge-worthy steaks.

• At restaurants, ask wait staff for their best pairing suggestions for sides and wine.

Thanks to wagyu’s growing fan base in Philadelphia, more restaurants are serving this elite beef. Use this guide to indulge in the best wagyu beef Philadelphia has to offer.