About this cut
A block cut is a whole piece of the ribeye eye, delivered uncut so you decide the thickness. For A5 that matters: most people cut it far too thick. Slice it into 1-1.5cm steaks across the grain and you get several portions from one block, each with a proper sear and a soft centre.
Marbling: Japanese A5 (BMS 8-12)
A5 is the top grade of the Japanese beef grading system: the "5" is the yield grade and the marbling itself scores BMS 8-12 — the finest, most evenly dispersed intramuscular fat produced anywhere in the world. It melts at close to body temperature, which is why A5 tastes buttery rather than fatty.
How to cook it
- Thaw fully in the fridge if frozen, then let the block sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Slice across the grain into 1-1.5cm pieces with a sharp knife.
- Heat a dry pan or steel plate until very hot. Use no oil - A5 renders more than enough of its own.
- Sear 45-60 seconds per side. That is genuinely all it needs.
- Season with flaky salt after cooking, rest 2 minutes, and slice into strips before serving.
Best for: Teppanyaki, dry pan searing, sliced steak service.
How much to order
80-120g per person. A5 is served as a course, not a slab — a 250g pack comfortably feeds two to three people. Slicing at 1-1.5cm, a block yields far more servings than people expect.
Storage and handling
Delivered frozen and vacuum-sealed. Keep at -18°C. Thaw overnight in the fridge - never at room temperature or under water - and cook within 24 hours of thawing. Do not refreeze once thawed.
Common questions
Is this Halal?
Yes. Every cut we sell is Halal certified, without exception.
Can I ask for a different thickness or portion size?
Yes. Our butchers cut to order. Message us on WhatsApp before you place the order and we will prepare it the way you want it.
How do I know when it is done without a thermometer?
Buy a thermometer - it is the single best AED 50 you will spend on steak. Until then: rare feels like the base of your thumb relaxed, medium rare gives slight resistance, medium springs back.
How fast is delivery?
1-2 days across the UAE, packed in insulated boxes with gel ice. Free over AED 200 in Dubai, free over AED 500 in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.
Not sure this is the right cut for what you are cooking? Message a butcher on WhatsApp before you order - we would rather advise you than have you buy the wrong thing.