High-end steaks have long been synonymous with luxury and unique flavors, but are they worth it? From the very expensive Japanese Wagyu to the well-known Argentine Pasture Raised Bife de Chorizo, these premium steaks typically have hefty price tags that can leave you wondering why they are so expensive.
In this article, I’d like to talk about the most expensive steaks in the world and discuss whether you should go for the experience or not.
Many elements affect the cost of these expensive steaks. From the difficulty of sourcing top-quality beef to the many processes involved in the aging and preparation of the meat, let’s explore the factors that make these steaks so expensive.
Marbling is what gives each bite the possibility of melting in your mouth; more marbling means more flavor and more flavor means a higher price tag. Marbling technically speaking is the inner fibrous fat that once cooked provides and incredibly rich and tasty flavor.
What makes these steaks so expensive is also related to the cow breeds, which are like rare gems in the world of cattle. They’re not your everyday cows; they’re carefully bred and raised to produce the finest meat. With such limited availability, it’s no wonder they are not within everyone’s reach.
Also, these cows live a life of luxury, pampered with top-notch care and carefully curated diets, eating specialty grains and even supplements. But quality comes at a cost, and these premium conditions are reflected in the price of the steaks.
These steaks come with a reputation steeped in tradition and history. As it happens with Bife de Chorizo as a part of Argentine Asado, they’re culinary icons with centuries of heritage behind them.
Japanese Wagyu is the name everybody remembers when thinking about luxury meat. Its unparalleled marbling makes the meat incredibly tender and flavorful, making it almost melt in your mouth. If you wish to taste Japanese Wagyu, prepare your wallet; it doesn’t come cheap.
Depending on the grade and cut, prices can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per pound. It’s all about the marbling!
Black Angus beef is the gold standard of steaks in the US. Also known for its rich flavor and juicy tenderness, it’s certainly a favorite. Whether it’s a ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, you can count on Black Angus to deliver a top-notch dining experience. While not as extravagant as Japanese Wagyu, Black Angus still commands a premium price, going anywhere from $20 to $100 per pound.
Originating from Argentina, Bife de Chorizo is typically grilled to perfection and served with chimichurri sauce for an extra kick. With its robust taste and tender texture, it’s no wonder this cut is one of the certerpieces of Argentine cuisine. The best part? Bife de Chorizo is more affordable compared to some other premium steaks. You can expect to pay around $15 to $30 per pound, depending on the quality and where you buy it.
Hokkaido A5 Wagyu is a variation of the famed Japanese Wagyu, hailing from the northern island of Hokkaido. This means you should also be prepared to dig deep into your pockets for this delicacy. Prices can soar to over $200 per pound, making it one of the priciest steaks on the market.
Olive A5 Wagyu, raised exclusively on Shodoshima Island in Japan, is fed a diet of olive mulch. You can imagine this also impacts its prices: the pound can exceed $500, making it one of the most expensive steaks in the world (and it’s worth every penny).
After many years of tasting the best meat (that’s why I founded Argentine Asado, after all), I can tell you that one particular cut stands out as a true gem: Bife de Chorizo. While Japanese Wagyu and the rest of the steaks in this list may steal the spotlight for some, I believe that Bife de Chorizo offers a winning combination of exceptional taste and affordability. Paired up with the best Argentine grilling techniques, it becomes unbeatable.
Name | Japanese Wagyu | Black Angus | Bife de Chorizo | Hokkaido A5 Wagyu | Olive A5 Wagyu |
Price | High | Moderate to High | Moderate | Very High | Very High |
Where to buy it | Specialty butchers, online | Supermarkets, butchers | Argentine butchers, markets | Specialty retailers, online | Specialty retailers, online |
Key characteristics | Exceptionally marbled, tender, rich flavor | Well-marbled, robust flavor, widely available | Traditional Argentine cut, flavorful, good marbling | Highest grade of Japanese Wagyu, intense marbling | Exceptional marbling, rich umami flavor, rare |
So next time you’re in the mood for a luxurious yet affordable meal, consider reaching for a cut of Bife de Chorizo and enjoy the best of Argentina without emptying your wallet.