Pros 
Cons A Warm Welcome & A Truly Unique Experience
The Mettwurst Shop, nestled at 22/44-60 Gouger St, Adelaide, is more than just a butcher shop; it's an experience. With a solid 4.4-star rating, it's clearly capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of Adelaide locals and visitors alike. The overwhelming sentiment amongst reviewers highlights the exceptional customer service and the genuinely welcoming atmosphere. Many sing the praises of "Mark," the owner, often mentioning his friendly demeanor and willingness to guide customers towards the perfect wurst for their needs – a far cry from the impersonal feel of some modern supermarkets. One reviewer even states, "I'd give the mettwurst shop a 10 if I could," underscoring the level of satisfaction this establishment consistently delivers.
The shop’s presentation is another key element of its charm. Described as a "proper market stall," the display showcases a beautiful array of cured, dried, and preserved meats. Seeing Mark produce an enormous salami on-site adds a touch of theatre and authenticity, further enhancing the overall appeal. It’s clear the passion for quality and craftsmanship extends beyond the products themselves and into the customer interaction. Shipping options, including delivery to Victoria and, unbelievably, overseas to New Zealand (though a subsequent issue is noted – more on that later), show a commitment to reaching a wider audience.
The Good, The Hot, and The… Jerky Debate
Let's dive into the products themselves. The Mettwurst Shop boasts a diverse range, specializing, of course, in mettwurst and jerky. Reviews consistently praise the texture of the mettwursts, noting a "spot on" feel. While some flavours are considered "nice" but not groundbreaking, the garlic mettwurst receives special recognition— a standout that’s definitely worth seeking out. For those who like a bit of heat, the "Firestarter mettwurst" delivers a fiery kick that reviewers warn is "definitely HOT!"
Here's a breakdown of products frequently mentioned, highlighting both praise and criticism:
| Product | Review Sentiment | Key Descriptors |
|---|---|---|
| Chilli Jerky | Mixed | Some love it, others find it lacking in flavour and dryness. |
| Garlic Mettwurst | Highly Positive | Excellent flavour, a definite standout. |
| Firestarter Mettwurst | Positive | Hot, fiery, spicy. |
| Other Mettwursts (various) | Generally Positive | Nice texture, enjoyable flavours (though not always spectacular). |
| Biltong | Extremely Positive | Described as "some of, if not, the best" biltong experienced. |
However, a significant point of contention emerges: the jerky. Numerous reviewers express disappointment with the jerky, citing dryness and a lack of marination. The contrast is stark – while the cured meats and biltong earn rave reviews, the jerky seems to be a consistent letdown.
Service – Delivering More Than Just Smallgoods
Beyond the quality of the meats, the service at The Mettwurst Shop consistently receives high marks. The "great father and son team" (along with other friendly employees) contributes to a welcoming and personal shopping experience. The willingness to offer advice and cater to individual preferences sets this butcher shop apart from larger, more impersonal retailers.
Here’s a summary of notable service observations:
- Knowledgeable Staff: The team is clearly passionate about their products and eager to share their expertise.
- Personalized Recommendations: Mark's ability to understand customer needs and guide them towards the right choices is a significant draw.
- Fast Delivery: Online orders are reportedly processed and delivered quickly, a big plus for those who can’t make it to the shop.
- Accessibility: The shop features wheelchair accessible entrance.
- Payment Options: Debit and Credit cards are easily accessible for consumers during their visits.
- Potential Weakness: A concerning incident involving a sale of products destined for New Zealand highlighted a lack of attention to customer service in a specific instance – with a customer losing the order entirely. This is an outlier, but bears noting.
Is The Mettwurst Shop Worth the Visit?
Despite the recurring criticism of the jerky, the positive experiences overwhelmingly outweigh the negatives. The combination of high-quality cured meats (particularly the biltong and garlic mettwurst), exceptional customer service, and a unique, market-stall atmosphere makes The Mettwurst Shop a worthwhile destination for any meat lover in Adelaide. The quick visit facility adds to its convenience.
For those seeking a taste of authentic South Australian smallgoods and a genuinely friendly shopping experience, The Mettwurst Shop is a resounding recommendation. Just maybe skip the jerky. Phone them on +61 450 267 658 to check opening hours: Friday - 7AM–9PM, Tuesday & Thursday - 7AM–5:30PM, Saturday – 7AM–3PM. They are closed on Mondays and Sundays.