Overview
Opened in mid-2024, Fatcow on James Street has already established itself as one of Brisbane's leading steak restaurants. But now meat-lovers have even more reason to visit, as The Tassis Group venue joins an ultra-exclusive culinary club, becoming the first Queensland restaurant certified to sell Kobe beef.
Widely considered the world's most expensive meat, fewer than 100 restaurants worldwide are authorised to serve genuine Kobe beef, including just 16 locations in Australia. As you might expect, reaching this gastronomic milestone is no easy feat, with 18 months of work required to get this luxury item on the menu.
"Bringing authentic Kobe beef to Brisbane represents months of dedication and partnership with our Japanese suppliers," says Fatcow on James Street owner Michael Tassis. "We're honoured to be the first Queensland restaurant trusted with this massive responsibility and excited to offer our guests this once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience."
Served from Wednesday, September 3, Kobe beef has become synonymous with high-end steak. While the price tag might seem high, this type of wagyu is produced under remarkably strict conditions, with only about 3000 cattle — specifically Tajima-strain Japanese Black cattle — earning the Kobe label each year.
Meanwhile, serving Kobe beef in Australia is far from simple. The meat has only been allowed into the country since 2018, and existing Japanese export controls and rigid authentication requirements make getting the green light a complex operation. But with the kitchen ready to roar into life, it won't take diners long to appreciate the lengths Fatcow has gone to make this steak an in-house reality.
Taking on the responsibility of working with this luxurious protein is Fatcow Head Chef Garry Newton, who has helped the restaurant build its standing as a renowned steak destination. Served in 100-gram or 200-gram portions, locals can officially indulge in this rare, melt-in-your-mouth treat, where a rich, buttery flavour and off-the-charts tenderness make Kobe beef a unique experience even amongst other decadent cuts.
Fatcow on James Street will add Kobe beef to its menu from Wednesday, September 3. Head to the website for more information.
Images: Marcus Ravik.