Kyoto, renowned for its breathtaking temples, serene gardens, and ancient culture, also boasts an impressive wagyu beef scene. While Kobe is often synonymous with wagyu, you don’t need to make the trip there to enjoy this luxurious beef. Kyoto offers a variety of exceptional options, making it easy to savor melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, including Kobe beef, without leaving the city.
What is Wagyu and How is it Different from Normal Beef?
Wagyu (和牛), literally meaning “Japanese cow,” is known for its exceptional marbling—small streaks of fat within the muscle that gives it a rich, buttery texture and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Unlike regular beef, wagyu is carefully raised to develop its signature marbling. The result is a beef that’s more tender, juicy, and flavorful, making it a true treat for any meat lover.
Where to Eat Kobe Beef, Steak, and Other Fine Cuts of Wagyu in Kyoto
There are several spots around the city where you can savor top-quality Kobe beef and other fine wagyu cuts. From cozy food stalls to elegant restaurants near famous tourist spots, there are plenty of places to satisfy your taste buds. To help you get started, here are our top 5 picks for the best wagyu and steak dining experiences in the city.
BENJAMIN STEAKHOUSE KYOTO
For a taste of home in the heart of Kyoto, try Benjamin Steakhouse Kyoto. This steakhouse is located just a short walk from Karasuma or Shijo Station, near Nishiki Market. The restaurant brings a touch of New York glamour to the heart of Kyoto city. Set in a beautifully renovated townhouse, the restaurant blends modern classic style with warm, wooden interiors, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy expertly crafted steaks made from the finest USDA prime beef, aged for at least 28 days, along with a carefully curated wine selection to enhance your dining experience. While the pricing leans toward the premium side, it’s worth every bite.
Kobe Beef Steak Moriya Gion
This charming restaurant is the first Moriya brand location to open outside of Kobe. Every aspect, from the cozy atmosphere to the lovely tableware, is thoughtfully designed to make your meal special. They also take pride in using local Kyoto ingredients. This is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Kobe beef in the heart of Kyoto. You can find it a short walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Main Line. Just a heads-up, like many places on this list, the prices can be a bit on the high side, but it’s definitely worth it!
KOBE BEEF Niyama TEPPANYAKI
This restaurant is in the Kawaramachi area of Kyoto in its downtown area. They serve up premium cuts of beef such as Kobe beef and kuroge wagyu (a prized breed of Japanese cattle). Each dish is crafted to showcase the richness of the beef, perfectly paired with their signature sauce—a special recipe passed down since the restaurant first opened. Prices here are also on the premium side. Getting here takes about 8 minutes from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu line or 3 minutes from Sanjo Station on the Keihan Main Line.
Premium Pound Gion
Just a 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, this steakhouse invites you to discover the true depth of Kobe beef. They take pride in dry-aging their Kobe beef, a special technique that enhances its rich flavors and makes it super tender. Served in a variety of cuts, each bite promises a delightful surprise. You’ll enjoy the experience even more with teppanyaki-style cooking, allowing the quality of the beef to truly shine. You’ll love their fantastic selection of wines! There’s a perfect pairing for everyone, making your meal even more enjoyable and memorable. The prices are a bit on the higher side, but the flavor makes it all worth it.
Gyu-Kaku
Gyu-Kaku is a popular yakiniku (焼肉, grilled meat）chain with locations throughout Kyoto and across Japan. Here, you can grill tender, thin cuts of beef right at your table using a smokeless grill. They offer a fun all-you-can-eat (食べ放題, tabehodai) option, including wagyu cuts, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a more affordable way to enjoy high-quality beef. It’s perfect for a casual and interactive dining experience.
Discover More Delicious Steak Restaurants in Kyoto
Kyoto is home to many other spots where you can explore the rich flavors of Japanese beef. From steakhouses to yakiniku and teppanyaki, the city offers plenty of options to satisfy your craving for top-quality beef, so be sure to keep an eye out while you explore.
Whether you’re a meat lover or simply looking to try something new, Kyoto’s culinary offerings will not disappoint. The city is full of delicious beef experiences that will leave you craving more. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, make sure to carve out time for a memorable steak or wagyu dinner—your taste buds will thank you.
