Richly marbled wagyu is highly popular in Japan; it is almost a way of life. These pampered cattle are prized for its fats and the Japanese sure know how to appreciate wagyu.

Now, here’s the thing. Wagyu can be done in many ways, but the most unlikely way is to make gyu-katsu sandwiches out of them. It sounds like a shame; the cow didn’t die just to be stuffed in between slices of bread.

But that is exactly what Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich is doing and these guys got famous for doing it! A recent trip to Tokyo made us travel to Nakameguro just for a taste of these famed (and expensive) sandwiches and we are now converts. We promise to never judge sandwiches ever again.

Sandwiches are usually sad and boring. Well, how exciting can bacon, lettuce and tomato get?

But Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich in Tokyo gives sandwiches a new definition and instantly ups its appeal factor. These brilliant guys offer rich cuts of beef as their only filling for sandwiches and you’d have to try these sandwiches yourself to understand that indulgent feeling of a wagyu sandwich.

Yes, prices are not cheap; you have been warned. And, the small stall in Nakameguro has no ambience to speak of. Don’t expect a fancy place just because you are paying so much for a sandwich; it is really just a few bar tables to stand around, and two small tables outside the stall if you need a seat.

But nobody cares about all these frills when you have good gyu-katsu sandwiches. There is a variety of wagyu for you to choose from; the cheapest being a minced version for a mere ¥1,000. We’d say don’t bother with this and just go for the better cuts such as the Wagyu Zabuton Sando (¥5,000) and Wagyu Fillet Sando (¥10,000).

If you are willing to splurge, go for the Kobe Beef Shabu Sando—the most expensive wagyu sandwich on the menu at ¥20,000.

Every piece is deep-fried with a precise control of time to make the exterior slightly crisp, and for the sweet juices to be retained on the inside so that every bite is a gratifying one. Bread slices are lightly buttered and grilled for a while before they envelop your choice of wagyu. You can choose to have it with or without pickles.

That moment when you bite into the sandwich, you will be greeted with a sheer explosion of beefy flavours. And if you get the better cuts, you can literally feel the warm fats melting on your tongue.

To complete the experience, Wagyumafia also offers a range of Japanese craft beers.

Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich
108 Meguro-ku,
Kamimeguro, 1 Chome?26
Tokyo, Japan 153-0051
Nearest Station: Naka-Meguro