Finding The Right Butcher

It's really important to find a good butcher you can depend on.

When I'm cooking at home for practice or just for fun, I don't mind using meat from a store such as Sam's or Costco.  

When its competition time and Money is on the line, I always rely on my butcher. 

I use a local butcher that I've built a relationship with because he has a direct line to premium cuts of meat that I can't find at a Sams or Costco etc...

Loin-Back ribs before butcher cuts
Loin-Back ribs before butcher cuts


I've found that it helps to start a general search in your local area by phone book, internet, etc. Then I go out and visit these shops. The first thing I look for is cleanliness. 

I've walked into some shops that wreak and have a sloppy freezers and meat boxes.  This is an immediate Red Flag that the proprietor doesn't care about his customer or product.  I want the freshest product available not something that has been in a smelly cooler with who knows what.

I make a point to talk to the owner.

Most of these shops are individually owned and the person ordering, cutting, and selling the meat is one in the same. 

First I explain to the butcher what I'm looking for, be it  Fresh Boston Butts or C.A.B. Brisket, or Contest Cut Ribs. 

I make sure that he understands that I'm looking for Quality Meat not a "deal". 

My butcher trimming my ribs
butcher using a butcher saw

Let him know that you want the best quality meat that he can order and ask him to see some of his current stock.  

I explain to him what goal I'm trying to achieve and how important the meat is to me from start to finish.  You will find that most butchers are willing to listen and eager to help you find the exact product you want. 

baby back ribs before trimming

butcher trimming pork ribs


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