Taiwan’s luxury dining market welcomes another world-class addition. Through a joint venture between Taiwan’s Yu Ding Group and its Japanese partners, “Yakiniku Gyusho Shin,” the renowned chef-counter (Itamae) yakiniku brand from Kyoto Gion, officially opened its first overseas location at Chun Dazhi in Taipei yesterday (May 27).

Inheriting the spirit of Kyoto craftsmanship and premium yakiniku culture, the brand enters Taiwan’s fine dining market with top-tier Omi Wagyu, full table-side grilling service, and an immersive Japanese-inspired space, redefining the standard for luxury yakiniku. To celebrate the grand opening, a limited-time promotion is being offered during the first week: every dining party will receive a complimentary dish of “Seared Beef Carpaccio,” inviting epicureans to experience the ultimate flavor of Omi beef.

京都祇園燒肉名店「燒肉牛匠新」今日正式進駐台北春大直。圖左起為御嵿副董事長李日東、御嵿董事長孫正強、日方代表田中進社長、春大直執行董事楊國鼎。 圖／燒肉牛匠新提供

To kick off the grand opening, a traditional Japanese “Kagami-biraki” (barrel-breaking) ceremony was held. The ceremony was co-led by Chairman Sun Zheng-qiang of Yu Ding Group, President Susumu Tanaka representing the Japanese partner, Vice Chairman Li Ri-dong of Yu Ding Group, and Executive Director Yang Guo-ding of Chun Dazhi. This ceremony not only symbolized the official launch of this Taiwan-Japan collaboration but also marked the grand opening of the brand’s first flagship store in Taiwan.

The event featured a live Omi Wagyu culinary demonstration, where master chefs showcased precise knife skills and meticulous fire control, delivering the ritualistic charm and immersive experience of counter-style dining.

職人於板前席展示近江牛料理秀，透過精湛刀工與火候，讓現場貴賓們都能體驗到近江牛的細緻風味。 圖／燒肉牛匠新提供

At the heart of “Yakiniku Gyusho Shin” is Omi Wagyu (specifically female cows), a delicacy with over 400 years of history, often crowned as the “Queen of Wagyu.” Through meticulous butchery and a carefully paced dining rhythm, the chefs precisely highlight the fat-to-meat ratio and flavor profiles of various cuts. To cater to the local market, the menu also incorporates premium seafood and pork selections, enhancing overall variety and flexibility.

Departing from conventional self-grilling formats, “Yakiniku Gyusho Shin” offers a comprehensive, professional table-side grilling service. Chefs handle everything from ingredient introductions to precise heat control, ensuring each bite is enjoyed at its absolute peak, allowing guests to focus entirely on the essence of the cuisine.

The restaurant features dual chef-counter (Itamae) seating areas, bringing the culinary process up close to create a dining experience rich in both interaction and ritual. This embodies the brand’s “5+1” hospitality philosophy: elevating the five senses—sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch—alongside an emotional connection through high-end hospitality.

台北春大直店占地近120坪，全店座位除板前席外，皆規劃為獨立包廂，高度重視商務與高端客群的隱私需求。 圖／燒肉牛匠新提供

Spanning nearly 120 pings (approx. 4,200 sq. ft.), the Chun Dazhi store’s interior design meticulously recreates the historic streets of Kyoto. Blending traditional Machiya elements with contemporary Japanese aesthetics, the space draws inspiration from Jun’ichirō Tanizaki’s In Praise of Shadows (In’ei Raisan). Through the artful play of light, shadows, textures, and negative space, it cultivates an atmosphere of understated luxury. Aside from the chef-counter seating, the entire restaurant is designed with independent private rooms to satisfy the privacy needs of business banquets and high-end social gatherings, enhancing exclusivity and honor.

To celebrate the grand opening of its first Taiwan location, “Yakiniku Gyusho Shin” is launching an exclusive opening event. From May 27 to June 2, guests who dine at the restaurant will receive one complimentary serving of “Seared Beef Carpaccio.” Prepared with the most pristine culinary techniques, the dish highlights the ultimate freshness and delicate textures of Omi Wagyu. Quantities are limited and available while supplies last. For more information regarding the brand and reservations, please visit the official website and social media pages of Yakiniku Gyusho Shin.