Swagyu Burger Restaurants are popping up all around San Diego and Southern California.

La Mesa is lucky enough to be one of the recipients of Steve Brown’s popular restaurant and butcher shop chain. Swagyu, whose name is a combination of owner Steve Brown and Wagyu Beef, boasts one of 30 places in the U.S. with a Kobe Certification.

Carlos Serrano, kitchen manager for the La Mesa Swagyu Burger, explained about Wagyu Beef. “All Kobe beef is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu is Kobe beef. Moreover, contrary to popular belief, Kobe beef is not beer-fed. Wagyu translates to Japanese cow.”

Serrano continued to explain that Wagyu beef must come from the Hyogo Prefecture (or District) of Japan, which encompasses the prefectural capital of Kobe. It must be born, raised, and processed in this region to be certified Wagyu. According to Wikipedia, it is derived from the crossbreeding of native Japanese cattle with imported stock, mostly from Europe. It is one of the most expensive meats in the world.

Swagyu Beef is a combination of American, Australian, and Japanese Wagyu – 30% each.

The American Wagyu (F1) is beefier in flavor and is a combination of ½ Angus and ½ Japanese Wagyu.

The Swagyu Burger menu features the 3-beef burgers in ½ pound Smash Patties, which are more costly, but understandable due to the beef distinction or American Wagyu beef single, double, or triple burgers, which are less costly due to the beef not having the higher certification. Vegetarian options, called Sandos, are also offered such as a Grilled Cheese Sandwich or a Cheese Katsu Sandwich. Brioche buns from Sadie Rose Baking Company surround all sandwiches.

The La Mesa location has a full liquor bar for you to enjoy a cocktail with your meal.

A fun event that the business offers periodically is called Swagyu Study Hall.

The name is derived from being an educational experience, besides being a 12-course progression of Wagyu. Learn about the three different Wagyu beef: American, Australian, and Japanese. Beef is served in creative ways such as wontons, tartare, in pasta, in seasonal soups, and paired with vegetables.

If you would like to purchase the beef, there are two butcher shop locations in San Diego; Little Italy and Imperial Beach (which is temporarily closed for renovations. Check their website to see when it will reopen.)

Swagyu Burger in La Mesa is located at 6062 Lake Murray Blvd., Suite 20.

Hours are 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. -10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The phone number is (747) 338-1105.

Peruse their menu at swagyuburger.com.