The place to impress discerning meat lovers

Joselito ham —Photo from Artisan Cellars and Fine Foods

Every now and then, you need to find a source for the finest beef or jamon. One of my go-to’s is Artisan Cellars on Pasong Tamo Extension. I learned about them around 10 years ago and I am happy to see that to this day, their commitment to sourcing the best gourmet food and wine from around the world remains the same.

They are more known for being a great source of fine wine, but in fact, they also have excellent steak and now jamon as well.

At a recent dinner, they introduced Okan Wagyu by Pardoo Beef. This is beef described as “fit for the Emperor” because it is high-quality Wagyu that has passed tasting tests and commended for its demonstrated provenance, unique taste profile, buttery taste and high marbling. This is a consistent award winner at the Australian Wagyu Association Branded Beef competitions since 2016, winning gold four times.

They served Okan Wagyu Oyster Blade MB8-9, a premium oyster blade cut that is not only tender but also exceptionally rich because its fine marbling melts into the meat during cooking, giving it a sensational flavor.

But at their shop you can also order other cuts: ribeye, striploin, Tomahawk, sukiyaki and yakiniku cut, brisket, ribcap, inside skirt , flank steak, flap meat and even burger patties.

They also served pancetta using the brand Joselito, used by revered chefs such as Massimo Bottura and considered one of the best jamon in the world. This is because Joselito Iberico pork comes from rare free range black pigs, with only 7,000 heads slaughtered once a year during the peak season, i.e., the sweetest time of the acorn season, hence its sweet taste.

The chef also served Joselito Iberico Presa grilled to perfection. Presa is a bellota cut taken from the upper shoulder of the Ibérico pig. It is the piece with the most intramuscular fat marbling, hence extremely juicy and flavorful.

These two items alone would impress any discerning if not snobbish guest. If you need to make a statement, Artisan Cellar is your friend.

Just don’t wipe out their stocks please. I need to buy from them, too!

Artisan Cellars & Fine Foods Inc. Contact 0966-7669303.