If you’re a passionate steak lover, you’ll know that few cuts rival the Tomahawk steak. Iconic, dramatic, and packed with flavour, the Tomahawk has become a true showstopper for meat aficionados across the world. Its sheer size, impressive presentation, and rich marbling make it an unforgettable centrepiece, one that elevates any dining experience.
Whether you’re savouring it at a premium restaurant or mastering the art of cooking it at home, the Tomahawk steak is more than just food; it’s an indulgence. But what exactly makes this cut so extraordinary? Below we’ll explore its unique qualities, the best ways to prepare it, and why Hunter & Barrel UAE is the ultimate destination for enjoying this remarkable steak.
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
At its core, it’s a ribeye steak, but taken to another level. The defining feature is its long Frenched bone, resembling the handle of a tomahawk axe, which gives the steak its name. This bone, left deliberately long and clean, creates a dramatic visual appeal that turns heads the moment it arrives at the table.
Tomahawk steaks are generously thick, usually between 5 and 7.5 centimetres, and often weigh between 1 and 1.5 kilograms. This makes them perfect for sharing among friends or family. Cut from the rib section of the cow, the Tomahawk is prized for its intramuscular marbling, which delivers both tenderness and flavour in abundance.
The result? A steak that combines visual drama with gourmet quality, offering a unique blend of presentation, taste, and texture.
Why Is the Tomahawk Steak So Special?
Several qualities elevate the Tomahawk above other cuts:
Dramatic Presentation
When a Tomahawk steak is brought to the table, it’s impossible not to notice. The oversized bone, thick ribeye cut, and striking appearance make it a true centrepiece. It’s not just a meal, it’s a performance.
Rich Flavour and Tenderness
Thanks to its marbling, the Tomahawk delivers an incredibly rich, buttery flavour. As the fat renders during cooking, it infuses the steak with succulence and a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. What makes it even more unique is the bone: as the meat cooks, the bone imparts a smoky depth of flavour, adding layers that elevate it above boneless cuts.
Perfect for Sharing
Given its large size, the Tomahawk is ideal for group dining. Whether you’re marking a celebration, enjoying a weekend feast, or hosting guests, this steak’s generous portions make it a natural choice for sharing. Its visual impact ensures it becomes the focal point of any meal.
How to Cook a Tomahawk Steak at Home
Cooking a Tomahawk steak at home is an exciting challenge. To get the most from this premium cut, you’ll want to prepare it properly and give it the attention it deserves.
Preparation Tips
Thawing: If your steak is frozen, thaw it slowly in the fridge for 24 hours. This ensures even cooking and preserves the meat’s texture.
Seasoning: Keep it simple—high-quality beef speaks for itself. A seasoning of salt and pepper is often enough, though rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil make excellent additions. Let the steak rest with seasoning for 30–60 minutes before cooking so the flavours penetrate the meat.
Preheating: Heat is everything with this cut. Preheat your grill, BBQ, or oven to a high temperature before cooking to achieve a perfect char while maintaining a juicy interior.
Cooking Methods
BBQ Grilling
- Preheat your BBQ to high.
- Place the Tomahawk on the hottest part of the grill and sear for 2–3 minutes on each side to form a crust.
- Move to indirect heat and cook for 12–15 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Aim for an internal temperature of:
- 50–55°C for rare
- 57–60°C for medium-rare
- 63–68°C for medium
- Rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Coal Grilling (Hunter & Barrel Style)
At Hunter & Barrel UAE, Tomahawk steaks are cooked over coal-fired grills. This method imparts a distinctive smoky flavour and delivers the perfect char that can’t be replicated by gas or electric grills. The slow heat from the coals enhances the steak’s natural flavours while locking in juiciness.
Oven Method
If you don’t have access to a BBQ or coal grill, the oven works well. Start by searing the Tomahawk in a hot cast-iron pan for 2–3 minutes on each side. Then transfer to a preheated oven at 180°C and roast for 10–15 minutes until it reaches your preferred doneness.
Resting and Serving
Resting is essential. Allow the steak to sit for at least 10 minutes after cooking, which enables the juices to redistribute. Slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Pair with classic sides like roasted root vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or crisp green salads. For drinks, a bold red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, or Malbec pairs beautifully with the Tomahawk’s robust flavours.
Where to Find the Best Tomahawk Steaks in the UAE
While cooking at home is rewarding, nothing beats enjoying a Tomahawk prepared by expert chefs. For those seeking the ultimate Tomahawk experience, Hunter & Barrel UAE is the destination of choice.
At our restaurants in Emirates Hills, Dubai and Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi, we specialise in cooking Tomahawk steaks over our signature coal-fired grills. This technique produces a smoky aroma, distinctive char, and unforgettable flavour profile.
Our chefs carefully select only the finest quality beef, ensuring exceptional marbling, tenderness, and taste. Each steak is prepared with precision, making it the star of your dining experience.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, dining with friends, or simply indulging in your love of steak, Hunter & Barrel UAE offers the perfect setting. Our warm, rustic interiors, commitment to quality, and attention to detail guarantee a dining experience that lingers in the memory as much as the taste of the steak itself.
