This August and September, Old Florida Fish House is bringing a remarkable collection of culinary and cultural experiences to the shores of 30a’s Eastern Lake. The season’s highlights include an exceedingly rare Kobe beef presentation featuring a visiting Japanese cattle farmer, followed in September by two distinctive evenings with former police officer and nationally recognized media personality Brandon Tatum.
A Rare Taste of Japan
On August 27 at 6 p.m., Old Florida Fish House will present an exclusive Usunaga Kobe Beef Dinner Experience built around the importation of an entire A5 Kobe beef carcass from Japan.
The whole-animal presentation is believed by the restaurant to be unique in the Southeast and possibly throughout the U.S. Rather than showcasing only a familiar premium cut, the dinner will give chefs the opportunity to explore the animal through a thoughtfully composed, 10-course menu.
The evening will also introduce diners to the people and traditions behind the beef. Special guest Yoshiki Usunaga, owner and farmer of Usunaga Ranch in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture, will travel to Florida to present the beef and tell the story of his farm. Throughout the dinner, he will share insights into the care, lineage and exacting standards involved in producing authentic Kobe beef.
“Having the farmer travel from Japan makes this much more than a dinner,” the Old Florida Fish House team says. “It is an opportunity to connect our guests with the origin of the product, the traditions behind it and the person who raised it.”
Although “Wagyu” and “Kobe” are sometimes used interchangeably, the terms are not synonymous. Wagyu refers to four native Japanese cattle breeds. Authentic Kobe beef must come from Tajima-line Japanese Black cattle born, raised and processed in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture, and it must satisfy very strict standards for quality, marbling, weight and traceability.
A5 is Japan’s highest combined yield and quality designation. The “A” refers to the amount of usable meat produced by the carcass, while the “5” represents the highest quality score. Its intricate marbling creates the tenderness, richness and distinctive texture that have made Japanese Wagyu one of the world’s most celebrated culinary treasures.
Old Florida Fish House is an officially registered Kobe beef destination and is billed as the only Kobe-certified restaurant in the Florida Panhandle. Its whole-carcass import offers guests a rare opportunity to experience cuts and preparations that go far beyond the customary steakhouse presentation.
The August 27 dinner will feature 10 chef-curated courses accompanied by selected sake, wine and cocktails. Tickets are $299 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.
Two Evenings with The Officer Tatum
The momentum continues September 16 and 17 when Brandon Tatum brings two special events to Old Florida Fish House.
Tatum is a nationally recognized digital media personality, former police officer and SWAT operator, author, speaker and entrepreneur. He has developed one of the country’s most prominent independent conservative media brands, attracting more than 8.6 million followers and subscribers and generating billions of views across YouTube and social media.
On September 16, The Officer Tatum Bourbon Tasting and Dinner Experience will combine conversation, cuisine and a curated bourbon tasting. In addition to his work in media, Tatum is the founder or owner of several businesses, including Verdict Bourbon, Blackline Security Operations, Shinergy Life and Pure Choice Apparel.
September 17 will feature An Evening with The Officer Tatum. Drawing on his experience in law enforcement, business and media, Tatum will offer his perspective on politics, culture, faith, freedom and everyday life. Known for blending direct analysis with humor and common sense, he encourages audiences to question prevailing narratives, think independently and live with courage and purpose.
Reservations for the August 27 Usunaga Kobe Beef Dinner Experience may be made at floridafishhouse.com. Visit the website for tickets, times and additional details for September’s Officer Tatum events and the complete seasonal calendar.
