No Bull: Gyu Tetsu Restaurant Is a Beef Lover's Paradise

Sitting above the McDonald's on Maizidian, Gyu Tetsu could just as easily be called Japanese Castle of Meat. This beefy restaurant (a combination of a yakiniku Japanese barbecue restaurant and the sharing-plate style of an izakaya joint) really doesn't mess around, and the ox that greets diners at the front door is a suitable indication of what's in store.

And what's in store is meat. Lots and lots of it. The menu is bursting with expertly carved cuts of pink and marbled beef, more than enough to satisfy even the most bloodthirsty carnivore. To get the full effect, we recommend visiting as a group of four or more and diving straight in with the eight-variety beef platter (RMB 688). Just make sure none of your invitees are vegetarians, or prepare to be stormed out on.

Layered with a selection of choice cuts and presented on a handy cow-shaped plate, diners can learn their rib from their round as they sizzle away on their personal charcoal barbecue.

Although beef is certainly the main event, the succulent fried chicken (RMB 38) is also fantastic and is generously portioned. The specialty beef bone ramen (RMB 58) is another standout dish. Distinctive for its purple-gray broth, this rendition is a little saltier than its pork bone cousin but no less rich and warming, with a healthy dose of pepper helping to elevate the flavors.

If you have space, the rich and creamy matcha tiramisu (RMB 48) is more than sufficient for two and makes for a welcome palate cleanser given the heavy flavors that had come before.

With more than 30 different types of sake, plus the standard draft beer and plum wine, there's no risk that you'll leave Gyu Tetsu parched. Patrons also get a special pick of the owner's sake glasses, each personally carried over from Japan. To make the most of their selection, they're currently offering buy-one-get-one-free on any sake before Feb 28. For those who prefer beer, there's free-flow Asahi draft for two hours between 6-9pm for RMB 88.

Given that Gyu Tetsu's dark wood and sunken seating decor is largely forgettable compared to other Japanese restaurants nearby, it relies on the strength of its meaty offerings alone. Luckily, the skill of the Japanese management and kitchen, and the menu's attention to detail throughout, is more than enough to keep it buzzing with diners.

Gyu Tetsu
Daily 5.30pm-midnight. 10 Zaoying Nanli Road, Chaoyang District (next to the McDonald’s, second floor) (132 4070 4803)
朝阳区枣营南里10号

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Photos courtesy of Gyu Tetsu, Tom Arnstein