There’s something so classic and old school about going into a butcher shop, talking with the butcher, deciding on a piece of meat, and then getting tips and tricks for preparing it just right. It’s something that’s lost in the aisles of prepackaged meats in supermarket aisles. As the public continues to become more aware of where their meat comes from, while looking for lesser-known cuts, butcher shops are being thrown back into the spotlight (not that they ever left our view). Here are some of my favorite Jersey Shore area butchers that have all played a meaty part in my dinner-table decision making.
The Arctic Market & Butcher, Pt. Pleasant Beach
Offering local, organic, pasture-raised, grass-fed and finished meat products since opening their doors in 2011, The Arctic Market & Butcher is a classic butcher shop with all the modern day offerings including local products from Griggstown. If you’re not sure what to purchase, they even offer packages that cover everything from tailgates with chicken, burgers, steaks, sausages and ribs, to grilling with three kinds of steaks, sausages, and Berkshire bacon, so you can throw the ultimate meat feast in the comfort of your own home. 816 Arnold Avenue, Pt. Pleasant Beach, 732-899-6328
Ernest & Son Meat Market, Brigantine Beach
They may have received national attention during their time with Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives, but locals have known for a long time what Fieri only recently found out: Ernest & Son Meat Market is the real deal. Their long-standing reputation for prime and choice cuts, homemade sausage, and their (now) world-famous beef jerky has been in effect since 1977, so I’m not alone here. (And their logo is a bull riding a surfboard—bonus points!) 3305 Brigantine Ave., Brigantine, 609-266-1588
Monmouth Meats, Red Bank
Award-winning Monmouth Meats continues to stand out by bringing prime cuts to the meat-loving public. Their famous BBQ packages are just what the grill-doctor ordered. And whether you’re looking to grill your own perfectly marinated kebabs, or considering a catered packaged that includes all the fixings, they’ve got you covered. (And a recent visit from Alton Brown surely solidifies this local establishment’s entry into the butcher hall of fame.) 112 Monmouth Street, Red Bank, 732-741-5292
Mr. Prime Old Tyme Butcher, Manasquan
I happened to stumble upon Mr. Prime Old Tyme Butcher on my way to an appointment, but for many, this local New Jersey butcher shop has been a go-to stop for over 65 years. Yes, they offer all of your favorites, but it’s the 30-day dry-aged steaks that have won over the tastebuds of their long-standing clients. What was once a “restaurant only” dish (that would cost you a pretty penny), now becomes your very own five-star meal, seared right on your own grill. 75 Main Street, Manasquan, 908-489-3061
Tom Bailey’s Gourmet Market, Spring Lake
When you’re looking for that unique burger blend or a cut that you just can’t find anywhere else, here’s a place where your search will likely end. Offering far more than your local deli, Tom Bailey’s Gourmet Market is also a well known butcher shop that offers everything from prime cuts to organic meats. Take home your pick of the day, add on a homemade marinade, and you’ve become master of the grill. 1323 3rd Avenue, Spring Lake, 732-282-0920
Arnie’s Gourmet Butcher & Culinaria, Cherry Hill
Just a short drive from Philadelphia, Arnie’s Butcher and Gourmet Shop covers everything from meats to prepared dishes to Italian hoagies. Locals flock to Arnie’s for their meats, but it’s Arnie’s expertise and willingness to share insider knowledge with his customers that have kept the shop open for the 30 years. (Oh, and their Italian spin on everything isn’t a bad angle either.) 219 Haddonfield-Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, 856-428-0045
Marcacci Meats, Vineland
Beyond their 55 years of expertise, Marcacci Meats takes the New Jersey butcher shop to the next level, offering their own hanging beef, lamb, and goat facility in order to ensure their customers with the freshest meat selection available. Customers rave about Marcacci’s large selection of quality meat products, the knowledgeable staff, and the can’t-beat prices. They even host a free annual barbecue to celebrate customers new and old. It’s the perfect excuse for a taste test! 1853 Vine Road, Vineland, 856-691-4848
