Chef's Corner

    Cooking Tips

    Flip Frequently

    Unlike conventional beef, Wagyu rewards frequent flipping — every 30 to 60 seconds. Its high intramuscular fat (over 30% in top grades) needs careful heat management to render slowly without pooling or burning. Turning often exposes both sides to even heat, melts the fat gradually, and builds a deep, savory crust without a thick gray band beneath the surface.

    Frequent flipping also keeps a more even internal temperature, so the steak stays juicy and is far more forgiving — which matters given how prized (and expensive) Wagyu is. Whether you use a cast-iron skillet, a grill, or a plancha, this simple technique delivers a consistently tender, flavorful result.

    Cooking Temperatures for Wagyu

    Wagyu's fat begins melting around 77°F (25°C) — far lower than leaner beef — so it cooks faster and overcooks easily. We recommend medium-rare to best enjoy the marbling. Use a reliable instant-read thermometer, and pull the steak about 5°F below your target to allow for carryover cooking while it rests.

    DonenessInternal Temperature
    Rare120–125°F (49–52°C)
    Medium-RareRecommended130–135°F (54–57°C)
    Medium140–145°F (60–63°C)
    Medium-Well150–155°F (66–68°C)
    Well Done160°F+ (71°C+)

    Rest, Then Serve

    Remove the steak a few degrees early and let it rest 3–5 minutes, tented loosely with foil. Because Wagyu's fat carries residual heat more intensely than standard beef, it will continue climbing to your target doneness off the heat — locking in the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth quality that defines it.

    Shop the Cuts