Are you a meat lover in New Jersey looking for the ultimate beef experience?
Look no further than Wagyu beef – the most sought-after meat in the world.
With its unparalleled marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, Wagyu beef is a true delicacy that every carnivore should try at least once.
But where can you find this premium beef in NJ?
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to buy Wagyu beef in the Garden State.
From high-end steakhouses to specialty meat markets, we’ve got you covered.
So get ready to indulge in the ultimate beef experience and discover where to buy Wagyu beef in NJ.
Where To Buy Wagyu Beef In NJ?
1. High-End Steakhouses
If you’re looking for a luxurious dining experience, head to one of NJ’s high-end steakhouses. Many of these restaurants offer Wagyu beef on their menus, sourced from top-quality suppliers.
One such restaurant is located in Atlantic City, where you can indulge in a Japanese A5 Wagyu steak at a price of $140 for a four-ounce minimum. While it may be the most expensive steak on the menu, it’s worth trying at least once for its unique taste and texture.
2. Specialty Meat Markets
For those who prefer to cook their own meat at home, specialty meat markets are the way to go. These markets offer a wide selection of premium meats, including Wagyu beef.
One such market is located in New Brunswick, where you can find American and Australian Wagyu beef. The market also offers dry-aged Wagyu strip steaks and rib chops for those who want to take their beef experience to the next level.
3. Online Retailers
If you can’t find a local supplier of Wagyu beef, don’t worry – there are plenty of online retailers that offer this premium meat. These retailers often source their beef from top-quality farms and deliver it straight to your doorstep.
One such retailer is located in Newark, where you can find a variety of Wagyu beef cuts from different regions around the world. The retailer also offers free shipping on orders over $200, making it a convenient option for those who want to try Wagyu beef without leaving their homes.
What Is Wagyu Beef And Why Is It So Special?
Wagyu beef is a highly prized and luxurious type of beef that originated from Japan. The term “Wagyu” refers to all Japanese beef cattle, with “Wa” meaning Japanese and “gyu” meaning cow. Wagyu cattle were originally used as draft animals in agriculture and were selected for their physical endurance, which favored animals with more intra-muscular fat cells, also known as “marbling.” The marbling provides a readily available energy source, making the meat extremely tender, rich, and flavorful.
Wagyu cattle are naturally horned and can be either black or red in color. There are four breeds of Japanese cattle that produce Wagyu beef: Black (Tajima), Brown (commonly called red Wagyu), Polled, and Shorthorn. These breeds are further classified as full-blood, purebred, or cross-bred. Full-blood means the animals have 100% Wagyu genetics, purebred is 98%+, and cross-bred is 50%.
One of the most famous types of Wagyu beef is Kobe beef, which comes from the Black/Tajima cattle in the Kobe prefecture in Japan. The meat from these cattle is renowned for its high level of marbling, to the point where the meat is white with flecks of red. However, too much marbling can be overwhelming, which is why some producers have started raising Wagyu on grass instead of a high-calorie grain diet.
First Light Farms in New Zealand has developed a distinct version of Wagyu by crossbreeding to create cattle that thrive on grass pastures. The result is 100% grass-fed Wagyu beef that has the benefits of fine marbling but is not overly oily like its Kobe counterpart. Raising the cattle on pasture also enhances the great Wagyu flavor by allowing them to eat what they should naturally eat: grass.
High-end Steakhouses In NJ That Serve Wagyu Beef
If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience, there are several steakhouses in NJ that serve Wagyu beef. These restaurants source their beef from top-quality suppliers and offer a range of cuts and preparations to satisfy any carnivorous craving.
One such restaurant is located in Jersey City, where you can find American Wagyu beef on the menu. The restaurant offers a variety of cuts, including ribeye, strip steak, and filet mignon, all cooked to perfection and served with decadent sides like truffle mac and cheese and creamed spinach.
In Atlantic City, another high-end steakhouse offers Japanese A5 Wagyu beef for those looking for an even more luxurious dining experience. The restaurant serves the beef in a variety of preparations, including as a steak or in a tasting menu paired with other delicacies like foie gras and caviar.
For those in northern NJ, a steakhouse in Hoboken offers both American and Australian Wagyu beef on their menu. The restaurant features a dry-aging room where they age their beef for up to 28 days, resulting in tender and flavorful steaks.
No matter which high-end steakhouse you choose, you can be sure that the Wagyu beef on the menu will be of the highest quality and prepared to perfection. So if you’re looking to indulge in some of the world’s most luxurious beef, head to one of these NJ steakhouses for an unforgettable dining experience.
Specialty Meat Markets In NJ That Sell Wagyu Beef
If you’re looking for a specialty meat market in NJ that sells Wagyu beef, Bringhurst Meats is a great option. This South Jersey institution offers made-from-scratch meals using the freshest ingredients, and their knowledgeable butchers are always happy to help you select the perfect cut of meat.
Bringhurst Meats is dedicated to providing their customers with the best possible products and services, in line with their belief that “whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23). They offer a wide selection of meats, including Wagyu beef, which is known for its tender texture and rich flavor.
Another option for those in search of Wagyu beef is online retailer Snake River Farms. While not based in NJ, Snake River Farms offers free shipping on orders over $200 and delivers their premium meats straight to your doorstep. Their Wagyu beef is sourced from top-quality farms and is wet-aged for 21-35 days to enhance tenderness and flavor.
For those willing to venture out of state, DeBragga Meats in New York City offers American-raised Wagyu beef from Snake River Farms. This high-end meat purveyor has been providing top-quality meats to restaurants and home cooks since 1925 and is known for its dedication to quality.
No matter where you choose to buy your Wagyu beef in NJ, be prepared to pay a premium price for this luxurious meat. However, the unique taste and texture of Wagyu beef make it a worthwhile indulgence for any meat lover.
Online Retailers For Wagyu Beef Delivery In NJ
When it comes to buying Wagyu beef in NJ, online retailers are a convenient and reliable option. Here are some of the best online retailers for Wagyu beef delivery in NJ:
1. DeBragga
DeBragga is a well-known supplier of premium meats, including Wagyu beef. They offer three different varieties of Wagyu beef – American, Australian, and Japanese – all of which meet the strict requirements of the Wagyu Beef in Japan. DeBragga even dry ages select cuts of Wagyu beef, offering a selection of dry-aged Wagyu strip steaks and rib chops. Customers can order online and have their Wagyu beef delivered straight to their doorstep.
2. Crowd Cow
Crowd Cow is a popular meat delivery service that offers high-quality meats, including Wagyu beef. Their shipping standards are top-notch, ensuring that the meat arrives fresh and in excellent condition. Crowd Cow sources their Wagyu beef from top-quality farms and offers a variety of cuts, including ribeye, filet mignon, and sirloin. Customers can order online and have their Wagyu beef delivered to their doorstep.
3. Snake River Farms
Snake River Farms is a family-owned business that specializes in American Wagyu beef. They offer a wide range of cuts, including brisket, short ribs, and flank steak. Snake River Farms’ Wagyu beef is known for its exceptional marbling and flavor, making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts. Customers can order online and have their Wagyu beef delivered straight to their doorstep.
Tips For Cooking And Enjoying Wagyu Beef At Home
Cooking Wagyu beef at home may seem intimidating, but with a few tips and tricks, you can enjoy this premium meat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Here are some tips for cooking and enjoying Wagyu beef at home:
1. Sear the meat: Searing the surfaces of roasts and thicker steaks (over 2.5 cm/1 inch in thick) will help them to retain moisture during cooking and results in a nice browned color. Sear your Wagyu in a pre-heated pan for 1.5-2 minutes on each surface before moving to a moderate heat to finish cooking.
2. Don’t overcook it: The best temperature to enjoy the luxurious texture and sweet, buttery flavor of Wagyu is medium-rare. For cooking Wagyu beef, we recommend starting with a well-seasoned cast iron and exploring other cooking methods—like grilling, sous vide, or braising—after you’ve mastered the art of the steak and the skillet.
3. Use a meat thermometer: Check your Wagyu for doneness by using the magic of the touch test or by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Whichever way you go, you’re looking for medium-rare or 130°F.
4. Let it rest: After cooking your Wagyu beef, let it rest for at least five minutes but as much as 10 minutes before enjoying. Resting allows your meat’s fibers to relax, widen, and reabsorb those delicious juices. If you cut it right away, those juices will just end up all over your plate instead of in your mouth.
5. Don’t over-grease the pan: Grease the pan lightly with butter, olive oil, or the pro move of using some of the fat cut from the edges of your Wagyu steak. The marbling of Wagyu produces high amounts of juices, so you don’t want to over-grease the pan.
By following these tips, you can cook and enjoy Wagyu beef at home like a pro. Just remember not to overcook it and let it rest before digging in!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wagyu Beef In NJ
1. What is Wagyu beef?
Wagyu beef is a type of beef that comes from a breed of cattle originally from Japan. These cattle are known for their ability to marble intensely, resulting in a tender and flavorful meat.
2. What is the difference between Wagyu and Kobe beef?
Kobe beef is a type of Wagyu beef that comes specifically from the Kobe region in Japan. However, not all Wagyu beef comes from Kobe, and not all Kobe beef is Wagyu. The term “Kobe” is often used interchangeably with Wagyu, but it’s important to note that not all Wagyu beef is created equal.
3. Where can I find high-quality Wagyu beef in NJ?
There are several options for finding high-quality Wagyu beef in NJ, including high-end steakhouses, specialty meat markets, and online retailers. Some restaurants offer Japanese A5 Wagyu steak, while specialty meat markets may offer American or Australian Wagyu beef. Online retailers often source their beef from top-quality farms and deliver it straight to your doorstep.
4. How much does Wagyu beef cost?
Wagyu beef can be quite expensive due to its high quality and rarity. Prices can vary depending on the cut and where you purchase it from. Expect to pay a premium for full-blooded Wagyu or Kobe beef.
5. How do I cook Wagyu beef?
Wagyu beef should be cooked at a lower temperature than other cuts of meat to prevent overcooking and to preserve its tenderness and flavor. It’s important to let the meat come to room temperature before cooking and to avoid using high heat or overcooking it. Consult with your butcher or online resources for specific cooking recommendations based on the cut of meat you purchase.