Niku Ou Rare Wagyu Dinner
Rare Wagyu in Melbourne is a "Yakiniku Dream". When it comes to the pinnacle of meat indulgence, Niku Ou is a standout in Melbourne. As part of the Wagyu Ya group of restaurants it is a unique and memorable dining experience. We were invited along to sample the menu.
Translating to “Meat King,” this Japanese yakiniku destination offers a royal feast of the rarest and most sought-after Wagyu. A licensed purveyor of both Australian M9+ Wagyu and Japanese A5 Kobe beef, Niku Ou curates a dining experience worthy of its name.
We began with the Kingfish Tartare, a fresh and vibrant starter with sashimi, green apple, sea grapes, ikura, and yuzu miso dressing. It set a tone of elegant simplicity. Next, the Wagyu Yukke was welcome decadence - marinated raw M9+ Wagyu mixed tableside and served on milk toast with egg yolk, spring onion, and almond slices.
The highlight? A Premium Japanese A5 & Australian Wagyu Tasting Set (340 grams) featuring hand-selected cuts from elite Japanese prefectures and Australian suppliers like Sher and Blackmore. Expertly grilled tableside by Japanese BBQ Masters, each bite was melt-in-your-mouth perfection, the rich marbling and smokiness creating a symphony of flavor.
Accompanying this, the Foie Gras Bibimbap—pan-seared foie gras and black truffle atop fluffy Japanese rice—proved to be indulgent yet balanced, pairing beautifully with the meats, as well as standing out as a dish in its own right.
Cocktails are a high point, and we were impressed by the Whisky Hibiki and Yuzu Mojito, their thoughtful compositions enhancing the rich, buttery dishes.
What also elevates Niku Ou is its service. The Japanese barbecue masters guide diners through a curated meat journey, educating with warmth, engagement and expertise. From understanding marbling grades to perfect grilling techniques, this is dining with purpose and precision.