For the gourmet gastronomes out there, get a taste of Japan’s finest this November as Hidagyu premium Wagyu beef arrives in the capital for a limited time only.
Of the Japanese Wagyu beef farmed in Gifu Prefecture (an area on Japan’s main island), ‘Hidagyu’ is a title bestowed upon only the very best beef, which must meet super-strict criteria. These include meat quality grade and the fattening period, which (when all well and good) result in its trademark bright pink colour, mesh-like marbling and melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Speaking of mouths, is yours watering yet? Well, you’re in luck. For a limited time only, you can get your teeth stuck into Hidagyu beef at several restaurants around the capital.
Book into any one of these five restaurants during November, and you’ll have the chance to sample the king of beef. If you fancy yourself as a lord or lady of luxury, this is one not to miss.
Benihana Chelsea and Piccadilly
Loud, frenetic and packed with enough theatre to keep kids and grown-ups entertained, the Benihana chain has been an international success story since launching in New York in 1950. A great spot for birthdays or special occasions, thanks largely to Bennie’s flamboyant at-table chefs, who regularly steal the show with their joking, juggling and lighting of trademark onion ‘volcanoes’. Here, you can enjoy a Wagyu garlic steak.
The Greenhouse, Mayfair
The approach through a verdant courtyard off an aristocratic Mayfair mews has always been part of the appeal of this fine-dining destination. Chef Arnaud Bignon's passion for the classical cuisine of his French homeland is matched by an appreciation of the contemporary culinary landscape, while fashionably sparse descriptions highlight the central element of each dish.
Tokimeite, Mayfair
Japanese chef Yoshihiro Murata is the man behind Tokimeite, and the restaurant specialises in Wagyu beef. The venue is certainly smart, spread over three floors and furnished in the clean lines and pale woods that characterise modern Japanese places. From its selection of Wagyu dishes, you can enjoy Wagyu tartare, or a Wagyu hot pot with onion and watercress in a miso dashi, with a side of truffle sauce.
Yashin Ocean House, South Kensington
Following the success of Yashin Sushi, its two ex-Nobu owners should be applauded for pushing the envelope further with Ocean House. “Beautifully designed” interiors feature brown leather chairs, Victorian floor tiles and bare brick walls, all radiating from a central bar complete with a dry-ageing cabinet. Here, carnivorous diners will be able to enjoy Hidagyu beef sushi.
Yashin Sushi, Kensington
From its bijou space off High Street Ken, this little gem of a restaurant foregoes the culinary pyrotechnics of its nearby sibling, Ocean House, to concentrate on simple, masterfully crafted sushi. Take a seat at the handsome, green-tiled bar or head downstairs to the sleeker monochrome dining room, and indulge in a menu crafted by two Nobu-trained chefs, including Hidagyu beef sushi.
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This article was published 6 November 2017