Japanese ‘Bullet Train’ Barbecue Grill: This flagship restaurant offers a playful concept in the heart of Jordan for a meaty experience from start to finish. Wagyu Yakiniku Ichiro takes the kitchen-to-table in a literal sense, delivering dishes on a ‘Shinkansen bullet train’ which arrives in front of your seat in a photographic presentation. Steak aficionados would be delighted to hear that the restaurant – as its name suggests – specializes in Wagyu. There are six set menu options for all-you-can-eat Wagyu capped at 120 minutes. Additional inclusions range from scrumptious seafood to indulgent sushi. Did we mention free-flow fresh juice, salads and mochi lollies are part of the experience?

Look & Feel: Tucked away in a nondescript building in Jordan, the restaurant transports you to an unexpected, futuristic setting, amplified by the Shinkansen bullet train concept and fluorescent color tones. The predominantly white scheme lends a minimalist, clean aesthetic. Wagyu Yakiniku Ichiro spans across the 7,000-square-foot space, fitted with a dramatic show kitchen, dedicated Sake bar and VIP room.

On the Menu: There are plenty of cuts to choose from on the menu but the star of the show is the prized ‘Odagyu’ A4 Wagyu from the multi-award winning Oda Chikusan ranch on the remote south-western tip of Japan. Exclusively introduced to Hong Kong by Wagyu Yakiniku Ichiro, the premier Wagyu graded piece is best served for ‘yakiniku’ grilling for a true melt-in-your-mouth experience. We tried the ‘premium deluxe Wagyu journey’ Set F (HK$1,098) showcasing exclusive Odagyu. There are a-la-carte options available at an additional price.

Our first bullet train arrival is Today’s Special (HK$218/included in Set F). The thick-cut sirloin is served in a treasure chest with dry ice seeping through as we open the box. Although gimmicky, we can’t help but gawk at the fun display, which helps to cool down the steak before sizzling it on the pan. Highlights include the Oda Beef Grilled Shabu-shabu Karubi (HK$178/included in Set F) and the Premium Assorted Kagoshima Black Wagyu (HK$498/included in Set F) for a selection of seven cuts of Wagyu. The latter is a great option for those wanting to try a bit of everything, although some pieces are undoubtedly more tender than others.

Some non-beef dishes include seafood – shrimp (HK$48/included in Set F) and scallop (HK$48/included in Set F). The abalone (HK$68/included in Set F) is rich and flavorful. The raw beef sushi (HK$78/included in Set F) is pleasantly juicy. We make several trips back to the unlimited juice and salad section to top up on the refreshing concoctions. For dessert, we opt for the mochi ice lollies which are a satisfying surprise.

Jeng: It’s a true rarity to find such high-grade Wagyu at such a reasonable price in Hong Kong. Wagyu Yakiniku Ichiro caters to different budgets too, with set menus starting from just HK$347. But if you’re looking to splurge, the premium deluxe Wagyu journey (HK$1,098) is ultimately worth it.

Not So Jeng: Unsurprisingly with the array of choice, not all the beef cuts are tender. The highlights of the show, however, definitely top our list on possibly the best Wagyu in town. So it’s a price worth paying and it’s about finding your favorite cut.

Meet the Chef: Executive Chef Tomiya Yu helms the kitchen. He believes that the flavors of Kyushu complete the ultimate, decadent yakiniku and wagyu experience.

Great For: Weekend date nights, celebrations, group gatherings.

FYI: If you’re looking for something stronger than the free-flow juices, then try the free-flow alcohol options at an additional charge.

Check out Hong Kong’s newest restaurants and bars here.

This writeup was based on a complimentary media tasting. The Loop HK doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.