How to Eat Kumano Beef

Japan has established a reputation throughout the world for its Kobe beef. There’s a lot of hype surrounding the treatment of the cows, how they drink beer, and enjoy frequent massages. The rich marbling of this beef has led to many imitators due to the strict export regulations. While Kobe beef must be from the Hyogo Prefecture, other areas of Japan have also taken note and are raising cattle of similar quality. The Kumano region is quickly becoming famous for its own richly marbled cattle.

How to Eat Kumano Beef

The flavor of Kumano beef can be described as having a slightly sweet taste. Due to its high fat content, this savory meat is known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The best way to enjoy this beef is by having it prepared on a teppanyaki grill; this high-heat cooking method allows the beef to form a beautiful crust while leaving the inside a perfect medium to medium rare. Chefs who prepare this meat are very mindful of the temperature and will be careful not to overcook it, allowing it to keep its natural juiciness and distinct flavor.

How to Eat Kumano Beef

Steakhouse Hinoki in Tsukiji has become a must-see place for steak aficionados. This restaurant’s guests have nothing but wonderful things to say about the food here, with many people saying it’s the best meal they’ve had in Japan. Steakhouse Hinoki has gained a reputation for its limited seating and attention to quality over a desire for profit. This has created a certain kind of hype around the restaurant, but the food can’t be praised enough.

How to Eat Kumano Beef

A typical course meal that can be shared by two people can cost more than 10,000 yen, but it’s a singular experience that will leave you stuffed. Set menus typically come with rice, a steak topped with toasted garlic, a hamburger steak, scallops, shrimp, and vegetables, so it’s more than enough for two people. If you’re in the area for lunch, you can enjoy a hamburger steak for lunch for 1,800 yen if you want to taste this amazing beef on a more limited budget. This restaurant is often packed and it closes kind of early at the chef’s discretion, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance or show up early, as in around 5pm. Some guests reported diners being turned away for coming in as late as 7:30pm.

How to Eat Kumano Beef

In the Shingu area, Yakiniku Hige is also making waves with the locals for its more budget-friendly experience. Sourcing its products from a local farm, Yakiniku Hige cooks not only premium cuts of meat but other parts of the cow, like the organs, as well. This popular barbecue restaurant has something for every budget.

How to Eat Kumano Beef

During lunch, you can order a set for 1,500 yen that includes thin slices of rib meat, vegetables, rice, soup, and their famous dipping sauce. Since this is a yakiniku restaurant, rather than having a chef prepare your food for you, you’re given raw meat and vegetables and you cook it yourself over a small flame grill at your table.

Steak House Hinoki

4.5

47 Reviews

Wakayama Pref. Higashimurogunnachikatsurachou Tsukiji 1-1-13

0735525550

11:00-14:00/17:00-21:00

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