One of Japan's top three Wagyu brands and the crown jewel of Matsusaka's gourmet scene, Matsusaka beef is tender, juicy, and packed with umami. This premium Wagyu is raised with extreme care under highly specific conditions in order to produce the fine marbling that has made it one of the highest valued Wagyu brands in the world. In addition to making the perfect steak, the artisanal Matsusaka beef can be grilled to a tender texture in yakiniku, dipped in egg for a juicy bite of sukiyaki, and even enjoyed rare in sushi.
For the essential Matsusaka beef experience, try Matsusaka-style sukiyaki, which is unique in that the meat is enjoyed first with a heap of freshly steamed rice before the leftover broth is soaked up by a rainbow of nutritious vegetables, including onions, carrots, mitsuba, and shiitake mushrooms. This alternation between cooking the meat and simmering the vegetables highlights the quality and individual taste of Matsusaka beef before incorporating the subtle flavors of each vegetable.
You can read all about how Matsusaka beef is raised, what the Matsusaka Beef Festival is like, what kinds of traditional and modern dishes incorporate Matsusaka beef, and more at the link below.
Where Can I Try Matsusaka Beef?
Matsusaka is home to many well-established, long-running restaurants serving the finest Matsusaka beef in a variety of traditional and modern dishes for every budget.
Wadakin
Wadakin is one of the longest running reputable restaurants in Matsusaka, their history being reflected in their motto "the originator of Matsusaka beef." Their sukiyaki features high grade Matsusaka beef cut slightly thicker than is typical, cooked through slowly and evenly. The stylish interior features traditional zashiki rooms with seasonal decor and views of their courtyard gardens.
Address: 1878 Nakamachi, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 0598-21-1188
Hours: 11:30 - 21:00 (Last entry at 19:00) on Monday - Friday; Open from 11:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
Closed: 4th Tuesday of every month (subject to change), Jan 1-2, August 16
Website: http://e-wadakin.co.jp/
Gyugin
Gyugin's long history of culinary perfection extends all the way back to 1880. Sukiyaki is their speciality, incorporating Matsusaka beef with the perfect balance of lean meat and fat that melts in your mouth. Customers looking for retro-modern dishes and atmosphere can visit the branch next door to find classics like hamburger steaks and katsu made with premium Matsusaka beef.
Address: 1618 Uomachi, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 1598-21-0404
Hours: 11:00 - 19:00 (Last orders for amiyaki at 18:30)
Website: http://www.gyugin-honten.co.jp/
Isshobin Miyamachi
This unique conveyer belt yakiniku restaurant is the place to pick your favorite cuts of Matsusaka beef and watch them get delivered right to your table on a revolving belt. Savor the rich aroma and flavor of grilled, A5 grade Matsusaka beef at just a 12 minute walk from Matsusaka Station.
Address: 144-5 Miyamachi, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 0598-50-1200
Hours: Weekdays 11:00 - 14:30 Lunch, 16:30 - 21:00 Dinner; Weekends and holidays 11:00 - 21:00
Website: https://www.issyoubin.com/
Oka
Oka, a long-running restaurant serving western-inspired cuisine since 1964, uses fresh Matsusaka beef tenderloin for their juicy and flavorful fillet steaks. Among their recommended picks is their hamburg steak, which is dipped in beaten eggs before being grilled to capture the umami.
Address: 115-20 Uchigomagaricho, Matsusaka, Mie (Open in Google Maps)
Phone: 0598-21-2792
Hours: Lunch: 11:00 - 14:20; Dinner: 17:00 - 20:20
Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday, Dec 30 - Jan 1
Website: http://www.matusaka-oka.jp/