When it comes to sightseeing in Japan, a key highlight is enjoying delicious food.
Wagyu beef, in particular, tempts gastronomes from across the world for its distinct flavor and tenderness.
In this article, we introduce five restaurants in Shinjuku where you can enjoy some of the best Wagyu beef dishes.
This article is sure to put some extra meat on the bones of your dining plans when visiting Shinjuku. Here’s a look at five restaurants where a blissful Wagyu beef experience awaits you!
Shinjuku's Attractions and Wagyu Beef’s Deliciousness
In central Tokyo, Shinjuku is a hub for shopping and entertainment and also known for its diverse culinary culture.
When it comes to Wagyu beef cuisine, the quality and variety on offer make it well worth the visit.
Wagyu is beef specially raised in Japan and characterized by its sublime marbling and rich flavor.
Historically, as well, Wagyu beef has been closely associated with Japanese culture and the preparation and presentation are also quite unique.
Shaburakutei Kabukicho
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13288974/)
“Shaburakutei Kabukicho” is a famous shabu-shabu restaurant located in Kabukicho in the heart of Shinjuku.
Here, you can enjoy high-quality pork and Japanese beef cooked in individual pots designed for everyone from solo travelers to big groups.
The restaurant has a luxurious brick interior with a variety of counter and sofa seating for a relaxing dining experience.
An English menu is also available, making it a convenient choice for foreign tourists.
In particular, the shabu-shabu, which is served with your choice of a sukiyaki-style dashi sauce, an original sesame blend sauce, and vinegar, is exquisite.
The convenient location just a five-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, is also a big attraction.
Wagyu Yakiniku Yakuniku
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13257388/)
“Wagyu Yakiniku Yakuniku” is a yakiniku restaurant that’s just a one-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station.
Here, you can enjoy Kagoshima black beef while taking in the night view from the top floor.
The restaurant offers the highest quality meat, hand-cut by master professionals and is especially popular for its rare Wagyu tongue and Wagyu harami cuts.
The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and also has private rooms, making it ideal for anniversaries and dates.
The restaurant also offers a full range of services for surprise occasions, such as plates with your message of choice, to make your special day spectacular.
Takuan Botan Tei
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13017363/)
Located in Nishi-Shinjuku, “Takuan Botan Ttei” is a high-end Japanese restaurant serving sukiyaki and steaks.
The restaurant has relaxing private rooms, ideal for business entertainment and dinners.
Some popular menu items are the "Miso Beef Nabe" and "Wagyu Beef Fillet Wrapped in Rock Salt" with both using thick slices of Wagyu beef and cooked in a Nambu iron pot, allowing you to fully enjoy the flavor and savory aroma of Wagyu beef.
The restaurant's interior has a chic atmosphere reminiscent of the area’s history as an entertainment district, transporting you back to a Japan of a time past.
They also have an extensive selection of sake and wine for that perfect pairing with wagyu beef.
Lava Grill Satsumaya Shinjuku
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13098288/)
“Lava Grill Satsumaya Shinjuku” is a yakiniku restaurant about a five-minute walk from Shinjuku Sanchome Station.
The restaurant features Kagoshima A5 black beef grilled on Sakurajima lava stones.
The restaurant has private rooms with horigotatsu (low table with a recessed floor underneath to stretch out your legs), accommodating large groups of up to 20 people.
Especially popular are the "3-second Hatsu" and "Tokusen Harami" cuts grilled on lava stones that are great choices for company banquets and family gatherings.
Since all seats are non-smoking, it’s also child-friendly, which is another attraction of this establishment.
The restaurant also offers a full range of banquet plans that include all-you-can-drink options, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
Teppan Diner JAKEN Shinjuku
(Source:https://tabelog.com/tokyo/A1304/A130401/13196756/)
“Teppan Diner JAKEN Shinjuku” is a teppan-yaki restaurant located near Shinjuku Sanchome Station, where you can enjoy high-grade teppan-yaki using A5-rank Japanese black beef and fresh seafood shipped in directly from Hiroshima.
Especially popular are the course meals featuring sumptuous fare such as black Wagyu beef loin, foie gras, and lobster.
In the open space on the basement floor, you can enjoy a live cooking show as the chef prepares the food right in front of you.
Counter and table seating is also available, making it ideal for anniversaries, business entertainment, and dates.
They also have a wide selection of wines for that special occasion.
Conclusion
When it comes to wagyu cuisine in Shinjuku, there’s a truly diverse and appealing selection.
The five restaurants introduced here all boast unique features and offer high-quality Wagyu beef dishes, ensuring a wonderful experience for visitors.
Along with delicious Wagyu beef, you’ll also get to take in the bustling atmosphere of Shinjuku and the depth of Japanese culture.
We hope you enjoy a blissful moment at one of these restaurants on your next trip to Japan.