Where to Buy the Best Wagyu Beef in Orlando

Wagyu beef has become increasingly popular in recent years even gaining fame outside of Japan for its rich flavor and velvety texture. This delicacy is now available right here in Orlando if you know where to look. In this article, we’ll explore the top spots to get your hands on the finest wagyu beef our city has to offer.

What Exactly is Wagyu Beef?

Wagyu refers to four Japanese cattle breeds – Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, Japanese Polled, and Japanese Shorthorn. While wagyu beef can come from anywhere, true “Kobe” beef is exclusive to Tajima cattle raised in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture

The magic of wagyu lies in its extensive marbling. The beef is laced with delicate veins of fat that impart a buttery texture and robust, umami-rich flavor. By feeding the cattle a specialized diet and ensuring their comfort, farmers promote generous fat marbling. The resulting beef is a cut above typical grocery store and restaurant steaks.

Where to Find Wagyu Beef in Orlando

Wagyu beef used to be scarce in the United States, obtainable only by the most exclusive restaurants. Fortunately, availability has increased in Orlando. Here are some of the top spots to enjoy this premium meat:

Kres Steakhouse

As a high-end steakhouse in downtown Orlando, Kres sources some of the best beef you can find in the city. Their wagyu beef offerings range from American-raised to genuine Japanese A5 wagyu from Kagoshima Prefecture. Choose from wagyu striploin, ribeye cap, New York strip, filet mignon and more. Kres’ elegant atmosphere pairs perfectly with their selection of fine wines and whiskeys too.

The Local Butcher & Market

This local butcher shop in Winter Park sells wagyu from renowned producers like Snake River Farms. Stock up on wagyu ground beef, NY strips, ribeyes, brisket, short ribs and beyond. You can even call ahead for special orders. While you’re there, browse their case of high-quality meats, artisan cheeses, wines and gourmet groceries.

Seito Sushi

For a change from steakhouse preparations, visit Seito Sushi’s Baldwin Park location. Their diverse sushi menu includes wagyu nigiri and sashimi sourced from Japan’s Miyazaki and Saga Prefectures. Seito also uses wagyu beef in specialty rolls and carpaccio. Enjoy your wagyu alongside curated cocktails like the Sakura Martini.

The Capital Grille

This upscale steak and seafood chain offers wagyu beef as part of its Generous Pour menu from July to September. During this promotion, guests can sample premium wagyu filet mignon and New York strip in addition to fine wines and cocktails. Generous Pour gives you the opportunity to taste exceptional wagyu without breaking the bank.

Shari Sushi

With locations in Dr. Phillips and Lake Nona, Shari Sushi serves A5 wagyu beef imported directly from Japan’s Kagoshima Prefecture. Their selection includes wagyu nigiri, carpaccio, tartare and even wagyu fried rice. Shari Sushi’s extensive beverage menu lets you pair sake, wine, whisky or craft cocktails with your wagyu.

Flemings Prime Steakhouse

Flemings offers a range of wagyu on its contemporary steakhouse menu, from filet mignon to ribeye. Choose your desired cut and degree of marbling. For the ultimate experience, go for the American Wagyu Ribeye, featuring artful marbling that melts on your tongue. Enjoy your wagyu with classic sides and Fleming’s list of over 100 wines.

Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster

Located at the Dr. Phillips Disney Springs resort area, Christner’s offers hand-selected American wagyu from Snake River Farms. Their 7-ounce and 10-ounce wagyu filet mignon makes a sumptuous entree, ideally paired with a loaded baked potato and sautéed spinach. Christner’s elegant dining room provides scenic views to match their exceptional steaks.

Grocery Stores Selling Wagyu

While restaurants serve the full wagyu dining experience, you can also cook this premium beef at home. Check out these Orlando grocery stores offering wagyu:

• Fresh Market – Carries wagyu New York strip, ribeye, tenderloin and ground beef.

• Whole Foods – Offers wagyu New York strip and ribeyes along with wagyu burgers.

• Chamberlin’s Market – Special orders wagyu from different distributors like Morgan Ranch. Call ahead for selections and pricing.

• ABC Fine Wine & Spirits – Stocks wagyu steaks from DeBragga and other top suppliers. Find them in the meat department at select locations.

How to Cook Wagyu at Home

Cooking wagyu beef requires some special care to avoid overcooking. With so much delicate fat marbling, wagyu can go from perfect to overdone in the blink of an eye. Follow these tips for success:

• Use dry heat methods like grilling or pan searing rather than braising or stewing.

• Cook wagyu no more than medium rare to medium. Any more will dry it out.

• Allow steaks to come to room temperature before cooking.

• Preheat pans, grills and ovens well before adding the beef.

• Sear the meat briefly over high heat to develop a flavorful crust.

• Flip steaks frequently while cooking.

• Let meat rest after cooking before slicing into it.

• Avoid overpowering seasonings that will hide the beef’s flavor. A little salt and pepper is ideal.

Enjoy the Best Wagyu Orlando Has to Offer

Wagyu beef offers a transcendent dining experience through its rich marbling and velvety texture. Fortunately for Orlando foodies, this Japanese delicacy is now available at specialty restaurants and grocers across the city. Savor melt-in-your-mouth wagyu filet mignon at Christner’s, sample A5 strips at Kres Chophouse, or take home Snake River Farms ribeyes from The Local Butcher. When cooked properly, wagyu beef is sure to be the star of any meal. Where will you go to get your wagyu fix in Orlando?