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Matu Kai
Master Critic Reviews (5 Lists)
Matu Kai
8.4
A newer Brentwood arrival built around a multi-course, wagyu-forward steak experience with Japanese precision. The menu is focused and premium, highlighting grass-fed First Light Farms beef in composed, chef-driven rounds that feel like an omakase for steak.
Must-Try Dishes:
First Light wagyu tasting menu, Wagyu katsu sandwich (bar), Seasonal finishing bites
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Wagyu-only steak tasting with omakase-like pacing.
Who should go: Adventurous steak fans.
When to visit: Early dinner for a full tasting.
What to order: Wagyu set, bar katsu, dessert bites.
Insider tip: Bar seats can unlock off-menu sandwiches.
Matu Kai
8.2
A focused wagyu house serving 100% grass-fed First Light Farms beef with a minimalist, less-is-more steak menu. The vibe is relaxed rather than old-school chophouse, and the cooking leans toward pure beef flavor, smart seasoning, and tidy sides.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu steak brochettes, Rib-eye ragu maltagliati, Bar-only wagyu cheesesteak
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Grass-fed wagyu-only program with a modern, stripped-down approach.
Who should go: Wagyu curious diners who hate stuffy steakhouses.
When to visit: Weeknights for easier reservations.
What to order: Steak brochettes, wagyu cuts, bar cheesesteak.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the off-menu cheesesteak window.
Matu Kai
8.1
A new-school wagyu spot focused on grass-fed New Zealand beef, with a sleek room that reads romantic once the lights drop. The menu is tight, meat-forward, and deeply satisfying for couples who want a special-occasion feel without old-school stuffiness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu filet, Carpaccio with uni butter, Wagyu fat fries
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A single-source wagyu program that’s the whole show.
Who should go: Steak-obsessed couples.
When to visit: Weeknights for quieter tables.
What to order: Filet, carpaccio, fries.
Insider tip: Sit near the open kitchen for the full wagyu theater.
Matu Kai
8.1
A sleek, newer wagyu-focused steakhouse with a tasting-driven approach that feels special without old-school formality. The multi-course “Dinner for Two” is the move for celebrations when you want luxury in a more modern frame.
Must-Try Dishes:
Matu Dinner for Two tasting, Steak tartare, Wagyu ribeye
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A modern wagyu temple with a celebratory tasting format.
Who should go: Couples marking a milestone.
When to visit: Early dinner for a quieter steakhouse feel.
What to order: Dinner for Two, tartare, wagyu skewers.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for access to occasional off-menu bites.
Matu Kai
8.1
A dim, modern steak spot centered on grass-fed wagyu and shareable bar snacks, trading old-school formality for a younger, sexier mood. The tasting-style “Dinner for Two” makes a splurge feel structured and fun.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu ribeye, Steak tartare, Fancy cheesesteak (bar)
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A new-school wagyu house that feels more lounge than chophouse.
Who should go: Date-night diners and steak explorers.
When to visit: Evenings for the full vibe.
What to order: Dinner for Two, tartare, wagyu ribeye.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the off-menu cheesesteak.