Gembe Namba — Restaurant in Osaka

From the moment I walked into this unassuming steak shop in Osaka, I fell in love. The servers were helpful with suggestions, and the eyes of each cook were brimming with what could only be described as intense passion for the art of cooking steak. The restaurant is extremely friendly to foreigners as well.

Now into the food! First of all, the smell in the air was simply perfect: roaring flames, sizzling fat, roasted garlic, and searing meat. A perfect ambience for what was to come.

And then, the steak! To say it was the best steak I ever had in my life would be a gross underestimation of how truly exceptional this piece of meat was. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, each bite had to be taken slowly so as to fully immerse myself in what I recall as a blissful ascent into heaven itself. Angels sang to me, trumpets blared, and God himself looked upon me with both pride and envy, for not even a divine could craft such exquisite wagyu beef.

If you are in Osaka and do not visit this place to have their steak, not only are you offending the very nation of Japan, but also the pure and good spirit of what it means to be a beef consumer. Gembe Namba is one of, if not the best places in the world to get a steak.

Do not...

Was in the area craving for some beef and came across this little shop that had a 9-course set meal at ¥5,500. Having never tried wagyu beef before, the price seemed reasonable and they had an English menu available which was great.

The appetizers were flavorful and delicious, especially the little roast beef with egg (not sure what it’s called). Star of the meal was naturally the wagyu beef, which was very tender and juicy. The portion they served was huge for 1 pax! I was so satisfied that I barely touched the potato wedges and soba dishes.

Overall it was a superb introduction to wagyu beef and very good...

Japanese style steak which was really good. Meat done perfectly, tender and meaty. Even fried potatoes were also good, so crisp. Lots of condiment provided, yuzukosho is the best. I also had beef yukke which was one of the best yukke I have ever had.

Restuarant’s atmosphere is lively and fun, most of the seat is counter bar. Service was fast and attentive. Staffs were willing to give an advice. Order is easy since there is a mobile order, but still can make an order to...