Philadelphia just wrapped up its first-ever Iwate Wagyu Restaurant Week, and what an incredible journey it was! From January 23 to February 7, 2025, food lovers indulged in the luxurious flavors of authentic Japanese A5 Wagyu, expertly crafted by some of the city’s top chefs. The event was a massive success, bringing together food enthusiasts and top-tier restaurants to celebrate one of Japan’s most prized culinary treasures.
If you missed it, don’t worry—we’re recapping the highlights, the standout dishes, and why this event made such a lasting impression on Philadelphia’s food scene.
What Made Iwate Wagyu Restaurant Week So Special?
🌟 Authentic Japanese A5 Wagyu in Philly
Philadelphia diners had the rare opportunity to experience Authentic Japanese Wagyu, a luxurious Japanese beef known for its superior marbling, tenderness, and rich umami taste. This was some of the first time many of our rare cuts were featured in the U.S., making it a unique treat for foodies.
🔥 A Diverse Lineup of Exclusive Wagyu Dishes
Top chefs across nine participating restaurants pushed the boundaries of Wagyu, serving everything from tacos and sandwiches to fine-dining entrées.
🎟️ The Wagyu Passport Challenge
A “passport” listing all participating restaurants offered a place to collect stamps from each, encouraging diners to explore multiple locations, broadening their appreciation for the versatility of Iwate Wagyu.
Participating Restaurants
🍽️ LaCroix at The Rittenhouse
⭐ Standout Dish: A refined Wagyu dish, pairing Sakura leaf and blossom designed to highlight the delicate textures and depth of flavor in Iwate Wagyu.
🍽️ Royal Boucherie
⭐ French-inspired Wagyu for two and with sauteed wild mushrooms, pearl onions, carrots, and crispy Wagyu fat potato pave with a Périgueux sauce. This dish did a great job at showcasing the beef’s silky texture and intense umami profile.
🌮 El Chingón
⭐ Wagyu Al Pastor—a game-changing Mexican twist on Wagyu, featuring bold spices and house-made tortillas.
🥪 Liberty Kitchen
⭐ The Wagyu Roast Beef Sandwich became a fan favorite, with beer-braised Wagyu shank, homemade giardiniera, and provolone cheese on a freshly baked Kaiser roll.
🍢 Kampar
⭐ Known for its Malaysian flavors offered a Wagyu Suen Poon Chee, paired with a Wagyu fat washed cocktail, this restaurant introduced guests to bold, unexpected flavors.
🍣 Morimoto
⭐ A James Beard award winner showcased the beef’s by marinating Wagyu short rib in miso, black garlic and hazelnut stout. Served on a Hoba leaf with charred scallions and crispy maitake mushrooms!
🥩 Barclay Prime
⭐ This elegant steak house took a simple approach, allowing the Wagyu to really speak for itself. Serving 5oz. of seared strip loin with a charred green onion, Wagyu confit tomatoes and a mushroom jus.
🍷 Cornerstone Bistro
⭐ A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant known for its seasonal, artisanal dishes, proved that Wagyu is not just for Japanese restaurants. They had one of the most creative takes on Wagyu, serving it carpaccio style with a wasabi ice cream
🔥 Hook & Ladder
⭐ A Northern Liberties chophouse that created an excellent Wagyu dish, pairing the beautifully marbled meat with seasonal vegetables.
Retail: Iwate Wagyu to Make at Home
For those who wanted to try their hand at cooking Iwate Wagyu, local retailers Altomonte’s, Di Bruno Bros, and Riverwards are offering exclusive cuts while supplies last. So, don’t miss out!
The Lasting Impact of Iwate Wagyu Restaurant Week
Iwate Wagyu Restaurant Week wasn’t just about luxury dining—it was about education and appreciation. Many diners left with a newfound respect for Wagyu, understanding that it’s more than just an expensive steak—it’s a versatile, high-quality ingredient with endless possibilities.
Key Takeaways from the Event:
Increased awareness of the variety of Wagyu cuts—not just ribeye!
More accessibility to Japanese Wagyu outside of fine dining.
Expanded retail availability, with more stores considering stocking Wagyu year-round.
Will Iwate Wagyu Restaurant Week Return in 2026?
With the overwhelming success of the 2025 event, there’s hope for an even bigger and better Wagyu celebration in the future. While we haven’t made an official announcement, the demand for authentic Japanese Wagyu in Philadelphia is stronger than ever.
Did You Attend? Share Your Experience!
📸 Post your best Wagyu shots & tag @the.wagyu.sommelier on Instagram!