Prime vs Choice vs Wagyu — What’s the Real Difference?

Recipe

Prime vs Choice vs Wagyu — What’s the Real Difference?

Taste the difference!

Every label promises “the best beef,” but there’s a big difference between Prime, Choice, and Wagyu. Here’s how to tell what’s worth your money — and when to splurge.

🥩 What You Need to Know

Select: Leanest grade, less marbling. Not ideal for low-and-slow smoking.
Choice: Great balance of tenderness and flavor. Perfect for most home grilling.
Prime: Heavy marbling, buttery texture, and ideal for special cuts like ribeyes or brisket.
Wagyu: Next-level marbling and tenderness from Japanese cattle genetics — rich, premium, and often overkill for simple BBQ.

🧠 Butcher Insight

More marbling = more intramuscular fat = more flavor and tenderness. But don’t overpay — a well-cooked Choice cut will beat an overcooked Wagyu every time.

🛒 Want to taste the difference?

Stop by Carnivores Meat Market and ask our butchers to show you Prime and Choice cuts side by side — you’ll see and taste why we hand-pick every one.