Do you love steak, hamburgers, and all things beef? While these are tasty, your taste buds will thank you when you try the tender, high-end Japanese beef known as “wagyu” for the first time. Regardless of the cut you choose, wagyu is traditionally grilled in the style of yakiniku, which elevates the flavors and textures to even more delicious levels. Below are three suggestions for you to try the next time you’re ordering Japanese yakiniku.

3 Different Types of Japanese Wagyu To Sample

1. Gyutan

Considered a Japanese delicacy, gyutan is thinly-sliced Japanese beef tongue. People enjoy eating this cut for its complex flavors, with the front half having a bit of a bite to it, while the back half is easier to chew. To prepare this cut of beef, the chef must stay near the grill, as it cooks very fast. Once the edges begin to curl upwards, the meat is quickly flipped over to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Insider Tip: Traditionally, many Japanese people like to order or prepare gyutan a little rarer on one side. This creates additional texture, while still allowing the unique flavors to come through.

2. Karubi

Japanese boneless short ribs or flanken cut ribs, also known as karubi, are often one of the most popular dishes in any yakiniku restaurant. Since it has more marbling than other cuts, the mix of fat and lean meat creates a tasty blend of sweet and savory that people love.

Insider Tip: The meat around the rib area is generally referred to as “bara,” which pairs particularly well with a sweet sauce.

3. Japanese Sirloin

Similar to American cuisine, the Japanese sirloin is one of the highest quality beef cuts you can order. Taken from the back area, the sirloin is known for its juicy tenderness. Its flavors can be brought out even further when prepared with a slightly sweet Japanese rice wine called mirin, or even a sweet and salty Japanese tonkatsu sauce.

Insider Tip: Wagyu steak is tastiest when ordered in the traditional yakiniku style: grilled on the outside with the center still rare.

Looking for a local restaurant to try any of these yakiniku dishes for the first time? Sura Hawaii in Oahu is the premier Korean barbecue destination for tourists and local Honolulu residents alike. This independently-run restaurant that has proudly served the Island for over five years, providing excellent customer service and introducing the region to delicious and diverse lunch and dinner options. With built-in stove tops on each table and a wide selection of beer and wine, Sura Hawaii is the perfect spot for your next date, family dinner, or girl’s night out. For more information, call their friendly team at (808) 941-6678 or check out their online menu.