Amin Abbas

TOKYO: Halal Kobe Beef Nagomi is a Japanese family restaurant, owned by Yoshi Nakatani, that specializes in serving halal Kobe beef.

Nakatani shared exclusively with Arab News Japan the story and challenges of establishing the restaurant: “I lived and worked in Kuwait for two years. I have many Muslim friends visiting Japan, and I found out that they all wanted to try the famous Kobe beef, but halal was not available. So, I decided to open the restaurant to help all my Muslim friends.” 

Nakatani learned how to cook at a cooking school. He tries to keep it simple and focuses on how to extract the real taste of ingredients.

“Keeping the stock is very difficult. Halal Kobe beef is so limited, and it is not always available. We are working hard to maintain the stock as much as possible,” he shared.

He thanks all the people who have tried the food. “Thanks to all our guests who have already visited us; they say that they were amazed by the taste of halal Kobe beef, and I’m very happy to hear that,” he said. 

About distinguishing the restaurant from other Japanese restaurants in Tokyo, Nakatani said, “We have a wudu and prayer room, which is a perfect environment for Muslim families and those with children.”

About his recommendations for those who want to try the food at the restaurant, Nakatani said, “Tenderloin is the best course we have, but Sirloin is also a great choice.”

The restaurant does not have any upcoming plans but wishes to go on a worldwide promotion, including in Arabian countries.