Seeking out the most expensive food in the world is a decadent way to travel. Fortunately, journeys with Luxury Gold can take you to far-flung corners of the globe where some of the most expensive food in the world originates, and sometimes, is found right on your plate. 

If you find yourself asking “What is the most expensive food in the world?” look no further. From wagyu beef to white truffles, here are some of our favorite foods and destinations to sample the world’s finest flavors and fare.  

The most expensive food in Italy  

You can find the expensive and sought-after white truffle in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy. White truffles are harder to find compared to other truffles because they only grow near certain types of trees. But the discovery is well worth it for their powerful flavor and aroma. On our Ultimate Italy tour, you’ll embark on a foraging trip for these aromatic truffles guided by an expert truffle dog. 

Italy’s prized, and often high-priced, olive oil is yet another reason to live la dolce vita with us. In Umbria, sample specialties such as fresh truffle-infused cured meats and regional olive oils with the help of a local gourmand who’s eager to share the roots of Umbrian cuisine from the region’s lakes, deep forests and rich earth.  

Spain & Portugal 

Take your taste buds from the delicacies of Italy to the finest meats of Spain and Portugal. One of the most expensive foods in the world is Iberico ham, a type of cured meat from Spain and Portugal. The best quality Iberico ham comes from free-range Iberico pigs that eat a diet of acorns as they roam about oak forests in the final years of their lives. Some of the very best Iberico ham is labeled black label – look for pata negra in Spain or porco preto in Portugal. Explore Spain & Portugal in Style, or book a luxury trip to Spain with us, enjoying fine dining in restaurants such as Michelin-starred L’Antic Moli in search of this expensive meat.

Croatia 

To indulge in the bounty of the sea, journey to Croatia to savor one of the world’s most expensive and luxurious foods: oysters. In the quiet fishing village of Mali Ston, sample fresh, briny oysters just out of the water that thrive in this salt-rich channel.  

Japan by land…

Leave Europe behind and jet off to Japan with us to discover the country that boasts some of the most expensive food in the world. One of Japan’s most well-known and high-priced foods is the famed Kobe beef. This marbled, rich type of Wagyu beef comes from one type of cattle breed in the Hyogo Prefecture. The regulations around the authenticity of Kobe beef make it more difficult and expensive to find. So, why not seek it out on your travels?   

@kobe_beef_official

Beyond beef, Japan has many of the world’s most expensive foods such as Hokkaido’s rare black watermelon, which needs several months and plenty of space to grow. This fancy fruit can only be purchased at auctions and can fetch around $6,000. Japan has also become known for producing the rare, and increasingly harder-to-find, Matsutake Mushroom. 

And sea… 

The waters of Japan also produce some of the world’s most expensive foods. You may be familiar with Fugu, the most dangerous dish on the planet. Strictly controlled by Japanese law, Fugu is lethal if not prepared correctly. Chefs must have years of training before they can prepare it. Japan’s Bluefin tuna is also among the most expensive seafood in the world. Its high cost is due to intense marbling and finely balanced flavors. 

New Zealand  

From rich waters to bountiful earth, venture to The Land of the Long White Cloud for Manuka Honey. This sweet substance native to New Zealand comes from the Manuka Bush and is known for its healing properties. The honey’s antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits can cost around $500 per kilogram when purchasing the highest grade. Even if you’re unable to sample this sweet nectar, our New Zealand itineraries offer plenty of rich, nature-focused experiences to write home about. 

Madagascar 

For an extravagant sweet finish, we take you to Madagascar for another of the most expensive foods in the world: vanilla. This island off mainland Africa produces vanilla pods that can fetch up to $600 per pound. The high price is partly due to the intensive labor required. On the single day that vanilla blooms the pollination must be done by hand. Journey to Africa with us to discover more tastes and treasures. If you’re able to procure this prized vanilla, just imagine what pastries you could whip up! 

Whether you’re in search of Australia’s fine wine or farm-fresh, authentic fare in Ireland, there’s a Luxury Gold journey for every palate. 

What is Kobe beef? You may have seen it on the menu of your favorite restaurant, or perhaps even tried it. If you’re planning your next adventure, you may have the opportunity to try Kobe’s finest on our Majestic Japan journey. Let’s take a look at the mystery and myths behind this luxury meat and how it has become a sought-after feature of fine dining. 

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Kobe Beef, defined 

Kobe beef is an exceptionally marbled, rich type of Wagyu beef from a particular type of cattle breed born and raised in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan. Cows that produce Kobe beef are from the Tajima cattle strain of the Japanese Black breed. How is Kobe beef raised? To qualify, the cattle must be between the ages of 28 to 60 months, as well as born, raised and slaughtered in Hyogo Prefecture.  

Kobe beef must also have a Meat Quality Score between four and five. Other specific requirements include the pure lineage of the Tajima cow, weight requirements and the “Japanese Chrysanthemum” seal officially certifying it. Because of these guidelines, only 3,000–5,000 head of cattle meet these restrictions each year. 

@kobe_beef_official

Look, taste and texture 

Now that we know just how unique this beef is, let’s get to the good stuff: the taste. Kobe beef’s distinctive marbling is what makes it so desirable. In fact, it always has a Beef Marbling Score (BMS) of 6 or more. The high marbling also means that Kobe beef is fatty, similar to purebred Angus. This fatty marbling creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is enhanced when you thinly slice it to prepare Japanese dishes such as shabu shabu. 

@kobe_beef_official

Wagyu beef  

You may have heard the term “Wagyu” associated with Kobe. Wagyu means “Japanese beef.” (“Wa” refers to something Japanese while “gyu” means beef). The classification of Wagyu beef includes only four breeds of purebred cattle including Kuroge (Japanese Black), Akage (Japanese Brown), Nihon Tankaku (Japanese Shorthorn), and Mukaku (Japanese Polled). This classification was established in 1944. Wagyu, like Kobe, is also a highly marbled and tender beef. 

Kobe beef vs Wagyu beef       

“What is the difference between Kobe and Wagyu?” you might be wondering. Among the four cattle breeds of Wagyu beef, Taijima cows — that we learned earlier produce Kobe beef — are a type of Japanese Black cattle. So, all Kobe beef comes from Wagyu cattle, but not all Wagyu beef is Kobe. As a comparison, the Kobe beef classification is a little like the classification for Champagne among sparkling wine. Champagne is a type of sparkling wine. But only sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France can be classified as Champagne. 

Wagyu beef look, taste and texture   

Similar to the specific type of beef from Kobe, Wagyu is also rich, tender and fatty. People often describe it as having a smooth or buttery flavor. Because the fat coats your tongue on the first bite or two, the flavor diminishes as you eat more. That’s why Wagyu beef usually comes in small portions, often of three to four ounces. 

American Kobe beef 

Now that we looked at the difference between Kobe and Wagyu, you maybe be wondering what that fatty, succulent cut was that you had in the United States labeled “American Kobe,” “domestic Wagyu,” or “Kobe-style.” If you guessed that these aren’t pure Kobe, you’re probably correct. Cows outside of Japan aren’t regulated the way Japanese Wagyu is, so it’s rare to find authentic Kobe products outside of Japan. Even though some Wagyu cattle breeds have been brought to the United States and produce the same rich flavor, it is rare that it is pure Kobe or sometimes even Wagyu. Several restaurants have been called out for labeling beef from Kobe on their menus when it was in fact simply Wagyu. 

Myths about Kobe

When speaking of the highly prized beef, some say that the cows are massaged to help redistribute the fat. Some farmers do massage their cows, but it is usually to warm their muscles during a cold winter. Some use massage to relieve stress for cows who do not roam free. But because the Wagyu — and thus Kobe breed – of cows are a working breed, they typically roam freely. 

Destination Japan 

Should you find your mouth watering for this rich, marbled meat, or simply want to explore the country that produces it, we invite you to join us on our Majestic Japan journey. Not only will you enjoy a range of fine Japanese cuisine, but sample some of the nation’s other famed specialty, sake.    

What authentic cuisine do you want to try in Japan? 

Tokyo, Mount Fuji, the waterfalls of Oirase. Japan is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, where modernity and tradition sit side by side. If you are looking for your next journey of a lifetime, discover the delights that await on our Majestic Japan luxury tour.

Majestic Japan

We invite you to take the journey of a lifetime to Japan. See the majesty, curated for you with our 11-day Majestic Japan luxury guided tour. Explore Osaka and learn the delicate art of sushi making with a masterchef in Tokyo. Admire the geishas and Buddhist temples in Kyoto. Among the waterfalls and forests of Oirase, a rare invitation from a Sake brew master will share the secrets of his trade.

Ride the Bullet Train and cruise the sublime waters of Matsushima Bay. On a poignant visit to Hiroshima, meet with a survivor of the 1945 atomic bomb that changed the course of world history. From dramatic skylines to mountain views, stay in magnificent hotels and embark on the most tantalizing culinary journey you have ever experienced.

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Meet a Saki brewmaster in Oirase

Oirase Gorge boasts some of the most picturesque surroundings you will have the delight to ever experience. The picturesque river valley in Northern Japan runs for 14km between Yakeyama and Nenokuchi, on the shore of Towada-ko (Lake Towada). Drawing visitors from far and wide, Oirase is one of Japan’s most-revered nature havens.

With an exclusive VIP invitation, meet a master brewer and discover the magic of sake. On a special guided brewery tour, learn the history and importance of this unique drink to Japanese culture. Entwined with many of the country’s traditions and customs, sake is inherent to the Japanese way of life, from the religious rites of thousands of years ago to the dinner table today.

Pay respects in Hiroshima

The name Hiroshima holds a pivotal and harrowing place in world history. Pay a somber visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Peace Memorial Park and Museum, the only structure left standing after the first atomic bomb was dropped during World War II on August 6^th, 1945. Here you will meet with a survivor who will openly share insights into this dark chapter in world history. A privileged and poignant encounter.

The geishas of Kyoto

Often referred to as Japan’s most beautiful city, Kyoto is packed full of temples, shrines and traditional gardens. Visit in March and April and the most spectacular display of cherry blossoms will greet you. Kyoto is also world famous for its Geishas, a fine art evolved over many centuries.

Travel to Japan with Luxury Gold and enjoy a performance by a Maiko, an apprentice geisha. Highly skilled entertainers and central to Kyoto culture, geishas are specializing in classical music, dance, conversation and games. Whilst the Maiko entertains, savor traditional Kyo-Kaiseki cuisine made of seasonal ingredients.

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 The delicate art of sushi in Tokyo

The world’s most populous metropolis. A city where innovation meets tradition. Tokyo is known for its temples, bustling streets and cuisine. Highlights include the Senso-ji Buddhist Temple, the oldest and most-visited temple in Japan, Nakamise Street and Kappabashi, a local back-street known as Tokyo’s foodie hub.

We invite you to join an exclusive cooking class with a sushi masterchef to learn the delicate art of sushi making. Using the highest quality fish, discover why it takes ten years to become a Master Sushi Chef. Then savor a lunch of exquisite creations.

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Exceptional cuisine

Prepare for a culinary journey like no other. Honed over the centuries, the preparation of Japanese food is refined and elegant. Flavours are pure and delicate, celebrating the textures and colours of seasonal produce.

Travel to Japan and discover why Osaka is known as the kitchen of Japan. Stroll along Dotonbori Street with a Local Expert. Your taste buds will come alive as you sample specialties such as Takoyaki. This local favorite is made of wheat flour-based batter and is filled with minced or diced octopus. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mount Fuji, enjoy spectacular views of one of the most recognisable landmarks of Japan as you enjoy lunch made of fresh, seasonal ingredients at a local restaurant. Meet the owner of a traditional Inn in Matsushima Bay to dine on local seafood and, at a traditional teahouse, prepare the perfect cup of Matcha Green Tea.

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Exquisite hotels

@hoshinoresorts.official

A country famous for its architecture, stare-of-the-art technology and exceptional service, we have hand selected some of the most magnificent hotels for the ultimate in Japan luxury travel. The grand Imperial Hotel Tokyo has welcomed royalty, heads of state and celebrities for over 120 years. Stay within walking distance of Tokyo’s most iconic attractions and enjoy award-winning dining, flawless Japanese hospitality and five-star facilities. The luxurious Imperial Hotel Osaka places you along the Okawa River in the heart of vibrant Osaka, one of Japan’s best cherry-blossom-viewing locations.

More than an exceptional hotel, the Hotel Granvia Kyoto features over a thousand modern and traditional artworks by local, Kyoto-based artists. And the Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel, exclusively situated on the banks of the Oirase Gorge, provides a stunning nature retreat.

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It you are looking for the ultimate vacation, why not book a luxury escape to Japan and make Majestic Japan your next journey of a lifetime?