Gyukatsu Motomura Naha in Okinawa, Japan

We had our first Gyukatsu Motomura at the Namba Midosuji branch when we went to Osaka early this year. There was a line outside when we got there around late afternoon, the restaurant was packed, and there was still a small line when we were finished. When we got back to Okinawa, we learned that a branch was opening in Naha. We decided to visit for our anniversary meal.

We haven't even had normal premium steak, it's not something we seek out to specifically eat so we have no baseline of what good steak is. I think the most we do is our occasional Yappari Steak that is served on a sizzling hot stone and you get to decide how done you like it. And that's at maximum JPY1,500 for a 200g cut of beef.

While writing this I actually just recently learned, through looking at other blog posts about the place, that Gyukatsu Motumura is wagyu beef. Which is fun because it somehow slipped our minds and we have been saying to ourselves, "if normal premium beef is this good, then what more of wagyu or kobe?"

So we do actually know what wagyu tastes like. Because we have been eating it.

At JPY 2,300 per 1.5 cutlet (195g) set meal, this is a special occasion meal for us. Still, at this price point, if you're a tourist in Japan, I would definitely recommend putting it in your must-try lists.

The beef is tender and fatty, even if you like it well done, it's still flavorful and won't get chewy.

The set meal in Naha did not have the grated yam that is meant to be a rice topping like it did in Osaka. I think you're supposed to ask for it to be served to you in this branch. It's definitely an acquired taste/texture. I tried it in Osaka but I am not a fan of slimy textures in food.

The price also includes rice refills. Sitting on the counter made this easier because we were right in front of the rice cooker. We'd just hand off the rice bowl and it'd be filled right there and be handed back.

Is it gimmicky? Maybe. Is it delicious? Absolutely. We'd probably go back for another special occasion.