Pros 
Cons A Deep Dive into Chan Butchery Shop’s Reputation
Chan Butchery Shop, located at 301 Liverpool Rd, Ashfield, NSW 2131, has garnered a mixed reputation among local shoppers. With a current rating of 2.3 out of 5, the butcher shop’s reviews paint a picture of a business offering highly sought-after products, offset by significant concerns regarding odour, service, and payment practices. Its opening hours are consistent throughout the week, Monday to Friday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, and closed on Sundays. The convenience of accepting credit cards alongside offering quick visit planning is noted, though, as detailed later, this is a point of contention for some customers. The shop caters to a diverse clientele, particularly those seeking specific Chinese meats, evident from the frequently mentioned "chicken feet", livers and whole roosters.
The Good: Specialist Cuts and Reasonable Prices
Despite the prevalent negative comments, a significant number of customers consistently praise Chan Butchery Shop for its specialty meat selection. This is especially appealing to those looking for ingredients often unavailable at mainstream supermarkets.
Here’s a breakdown of what customers appreciate:
- Specialty Items: The shop is renowned for its availability of hard-to-find items like chicken feet, livers, and whole roosters – frequently cited as the reason for customers travelling considerable distances, even from Sydney City.
- Chinese Meat Selection: It’s a go-to spot for those seeking authentic Chinese cuts of meat and poultry. There’s a clear demand for their particular range.
- Competitive Pricing: Customers consistently highlight the reasonable prices, making it an attractive option, especially when compared to other sources for these niche meats.
- Efficient Service: Many reviewers note that the staff are quick to serve customers, suggesting a well-managed operation in terms of speed and efficiency.
- Multilingual Staff: The ability of staff to communicate in both English and Chinese is a significant plus, fostering inclusivity and better communication for a broad range of customers.
"Literally drive from Sydney city just to come here for chicken feet. They also have other poultry and pork options and prices are very reasonable.” – A recurring comment, highlighting the dedication customers have to obtaining these products from Chan Butchery Shop.
Addressing the Concerns: Smell, Service, and Payment Practices
While the shop earns praise for its product range, a substantial number of reviews express serious reservations relating to the environment and customer experience. These concerns are persistent and require addressing if Chan Butchery Shop hopes to improve its overall standing.
Here’s a detailed look at these issues:
- Overpowering Odour: The most consistent and arguably most damaging criticism revolves around a pervasive and unpleasant smell. Several reviewers describe the odour as "horrible," akin to "roadkill," and one even stated it makes them want to "vomit." This suggests a potential issue with meat storage, ventilation, or general hygiene.
- Subpar Service: Complaints about "horrible service" and "bad service" are also frequent, indicating a need for improved customer interaction and potentially staff training. The lack of detail provided in these comments makes pinpointing the exact nature of the poor service difficult; however, the repetition warrants attention.
- Questionable Payment Practices: A particularly concerning review highlights an unexpected $1.00 surcharge on credit card transactions, with the cashier reportedly encouraging cash payments. The receipt allegedly didn’t disclose this surcharge. This practice raises significant legal questions, as the reviewer notes, citing potential breaches of ACCC regulations. The shop accepts credit cards, according to their facilities details, but this charge undermines the convenience.
| Issue | Description | Potential Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Odour | Strong, unpleasant smell; described as "roadkill" | Review sanitation procedures, improve ventilation, inspect meat storage |
| Service | Reported “horrible” and “bad” experiences | Staff training, monitor customer interactions, seek feedback |
| Payment Surcharge | $1.00 surcharge for credit card use, undeclared | Immediately cease surcharge, clearly display any applicable fees |
Navigating the Chan Butchery Shop Experience: Key Takeaways
Chan Butchery Shop presents a unique proposition for shoppers in Ashfield. Its specialization in Chinese meats, particularly the sought-after chicken feet and other less common ingredients, draws a dedicated following. However, potential customers should be aware of the ongoing concerns regarding the shop's odour and experiences with service.
Here’s the advice for those considering a visit:
- Prepare for the Smell: Be mentally prepared for the strong odour that many customers have reported. It’s a significant deterrent.
- Bring Cash: Due to the credit card surcharge issue, it’s advisable to pay with cash to avoid unexpected fees.
- Have a Specific List: Given the potential for long queues and efficient service, know exactly what you need before you arrive.
- Consider Alternatives: If the odour or service are deal-breakers, explore whether other suppliers can fulfil your needs.
The shop has the potential to thrive, particularly given the demand for its specific products. However, addressing the concerns about odour, service, and payment practices is crucial for improving its reputation and attracting a wider customer base.