Finding the Best Kobe Beef in Denver: Top Restaurants and Butchers

As a major foodie hub, Denver offers no shortage of steakhouses serving Prime beef and Wagyu from America and Australia. But for the ultimate beef experience only real Kobe beef from Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture will do. This exceptionally marbled delicacy remains rare stateside though a few top Denver chefs and butchers manage to source authentic Japanese Kobe for beef connoisseurs. Read on for the inside scoop on where to taste and buy genuine Kobe beef in the Mile High City.

What Makes Kobe Beef So Exclusive?

The term “Kobe beef” refers specifically to beef from Tajima cattle raised in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture according to strict guidelines. These pedigree cattle grow exceptionally delicate marbling that gives Kobe beef its renowned richness and tenderness. Only 3000 head of authentic Kobe cattle exist outside Japan making this one of the rarest types of beef worldwide. Kobe’s exclusivity means extraordinary eating quality at an equally extraordinary price.

Tasting Kobe Beef at Denver’s Best Restaurants

Though scarce, a few of Denver’s top dining establishments manage to procure the real deal for special menus and events. Here are the best spots to experience true Japanese Kobe beef in Denver:

Izakaya Den – This LoHi izakaya offers Kobe beef in their signature sliders featuring habanero ketchup. They also use Kobe in select sushi rolls.

Urban Farmer – Expect elegant preparations of certified Kobe beef on Urban Farmer’s seasonal tasting menus and special events. Their in-house butcher also stocks Kobe.

D Bar – Sample Kobe in D Bar’s popular sliders in a casual LoDo setting. Their Kobe beef comes from Colorado’s rare Kobe cattle herd.

Rioja – When available, Mediterranean small plates restaurant Rioja features premium Kobe steak and short rib on menus.

ChoLon – Asian fusion hot spot ChoLon offers the indulgence of Kobe in dishes like wagyu chow fun when they can source it.

Bull & Bush – This longstanding Denver brewpub substitutes Kobe beef by request in their signature Prime burgers for a small upcharge.

Appaloosa Grill – You may find Kobe instead of Wagyu in Appaloosa Grill’s highend burger selection if they acquire it that season.

Buying Kobe Beef at Specialty Meat Shops

Though your chances of finding Kobe beef are slim, a few specialty butchers and meat shops in Denver sometimes sell the real deal:

Western Daughters Butcher Shop – This beloved shop offers extremely limited supplies of authenticated Japanese Kobe beef. Sign up for notifications when they get it in stock.

Tony’s Market – At their expansive Broadway Market location, Tony’s fine meats team can source and special order legitimate Japanese Kobe. Availability is very sporadic.

The Truffle Table – This charcuterie and provisions shop hosts exclusive tasting events for Japanese Kobe and other rare imported meats when available. Check their calendar for beef features.

Marczyk Fine Foods – Marczyk’s skilled butchers offer a “reserve program” to source prized meats like certified Kobe to order for interested customers.

Call or email ahead to check on Japanese Kobe availability at these top shops before visiting to avoid disappointment. Supply sells out lightning fast when they can get it flown in from Japan.

What to Expect from Real Kobe Beef

From texture to taste to price, authentic Japanese Kobe differs dramatically from typical steer beef:

• The marbling appears delicate, almost white, and laces through the meat in intricate webs.

• The buttery texture feels downright decadent on the tongue. Kobe is tender enough to cut with chopsticks.

• Flavor concentrates heavily in beefy, savory umami with subtle sweetness and fruitiness.

• Steaks cost around $200 per pound and up – making even a few ounces a pricey affair.

• Common cuts are ribeye, tenderloin, sirloin, brisket point, chuck roll, strip and ground meat.

• Prime steak houses charge $40-$60 for a 3-4 oz. filet; $15 per slider.

Cooking and Appreciating Japanese Kobe

With its steep cost and incredible quality, savoring Kobe requires care to fully appreciate:

• Let steaks come to room temperature before cooking. Pat dry thoroughly.

• Choose pan searing, grilling or broiling to develop the flavorful crust without overcooking the interior.

• Cook only to rare or medium rare at most – beyond that diminishes Kobe’s delicate texture.

• Flip meat frequently while cooking. Monitor temperature with a thermometer.

• Avoid marinating Kobe. Light seasoning enhances natural flavor without masking it.

• Refrigerate unused portions immediately to prevent spoilage of the fatty meat.

• Consider sous-vide methods to cook small portions precisely without overcooking.

By seeking out Japan’s legendary beef in Denver, you can achieve the ultimate steakhouse experience in the comfort of this landlocked state. Though rare, opportunities exist to taste and even buy the real thing without boarding a plane. Your tastebuds and wallet will appreciate finding the best sources of authentic Japanese Kobe beef closest to home.