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Lean Gentini

Meat Sommelier. Wagyu Meister

​

WagyuMafia. Mindblowing Wagyu experience

  • Writer: Lean Gentini Meat Sommelier
    Lean Gentini Meat Sommelier
  • Mar 16, 2024
  • 3 min read

Updated: Nov 20, 2024


I couldn’t believe this place existed until I visited it. Created by the visionary Chef Hisato Hamada-san, this steak restaurant offers a mind-blowing Wagyu dinner experience. There isn't yet an adjective that fully captures its essence, combining the finest Wagyu and ingredients into unforgettable dishes, all imbued with a true spirit of friendship. As Hisato says, "You enter as a customer and leave as a friend"


Location: Tokyo (they have different locations)

Lean's Instagram Posts:

 

Creator, owner and Chef Hamada san at WagyuMafia District, Japan


Since it started, WagyuMafia has grown like crazy, expanding not just across Japan—with spots like @wagyumafia_butcher, @wagyumafiadistrict, and @wagyumafiarepublic—but also internationally in places like Singapore, Hong Kong, pop-up events in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Dubai and much more places arroudn the world.


But let’s focus on Japan, where this phenomenon began. To give you a simple idea, in Japan, you typically find four types of dining styles or establishments:

  • Omakase Kaiseki (懐石) restaurants: Usually small places where chef prepare a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner served in a formal setting.

  • Izakaya-style cuisine: Casual spots where small plates are served to accompany drinks. These dishes are usually made in the kitchen (not visible to customers) and meant to be shared among friends, creating a lively, informal atmosphere.

  • Kappo (割烹) restaurants: "Kappo" means "to cut and to cook," and similar to omakase Kaiseki, Kappo is a multi-course meal left entirely up to the chef, but highlighting the close interaction between the diner and the chef, who prepares the food right in front of you. Kappo restaurants are typically small and cozy, frequented by regulars and often known only through word of mouth.

  • Kōkyū Restaurants (高級): High-end establishments, like three Michelin star restaurants, offering luxurious, top-tier dining experiences.


Well... WagyuMafia is all of that and none of that. Hisato has created something entirely new, blending the best of each concept into one unique experience. And you’re going to love it.


During the dinner experience, with a shout of "itterasshai" accompanying nearly every dish, you'll savor the finest Wagyu, expertly prepared with exceptional techniques. The lively and entertaining atmosphere will elevate your adrenaline with every course.






WagyuMafia brings you the best Wagyu Japan has to offer. They use everything from finely aged Kobe beef to Ozaki beef from the beautiful Miyagi prefecture, plus their own Wagyu brand. They always pick top-quality, seasonal ingredients. Tradition and storytelling are a big part of the experience. Every dish comes with a cool story, creating a fun and celebratory atmosphere.


At some point during dinner, you won't be able to stop yourself from shouting “itterasshai” with the staff and other customers, or saying "kampai" at every clink of glasses. Laughter and enjoyment will just flow naturally. When you combine great food with great company, it's impossible not to have the best time of your life, and WaguMafia knows that very well!


Wagyu cutting in front of customer at WagyuMafia District, Japan


WagyuMafia is full of surprises. Imagine having a T-bone steak cut right in front of you, or seeing gold leaf thrown onto a Wagyu sando, they might even fill the air with chrysanthemum leaves (the flower of Kobe Beef logo brand) or open the oven to let a gigantic fire flame show up. It's like being in a movie, but you're right there, living it.


In 2023, this remarkable dedication to excellence was globally recognized when WagyuMafia was honored among the top 10 steakhouses in Japan by the prestigious ranking of World 101 Best Stearestaurants (https://www.worldbeststeaks.com). This accolade is a testament to WagyuMafia's unparalleled commitment to quality and innovation in the realm of Wagyu dining.


Owner and Chef Hisato san receiving the plaque for being among the best 2023 Steakhoues in Japan . WagyuMafia Butcher´s kitchen, Japan


My personal journey through WagyuMafia, guided by the friendship of Hisato Hamada-san—who warmly refers to me as "hermano"— highlights the profound connection that food can forge between souls.


First time I´ve meet owner and chef Hisato Hamada, at WagyuMafia republic



WagyuMafia isn’t just a Wagyu steakhouse; it’s a house where top-quality Wagyu takes the spotlight. It’s where amazing cooking meets real human connection, making every visit a memorable part of your food journey. The vibe Hisato Hamada-san and his team have created is all about innovation and good vibes, setting a new bar for Wagyu dining everywhere.


Don´t miss it!




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