Pros 
Cons A Bondi Junction Institution: Tender Gourmet Butchery's Reputation
Tender Gourmet Butchery, nestled at 71/91 Spring St, Bondi Junction, has firmly established itself as a beloved fixture in the local community. Boasting a solid 4.3-star rating, this butcher shop isn't just a place to buy meat; it's a destination for quality, honest service, and a genuine connection with the people behind the counter. Many customers highlight the shop as "the best butcher in the junction by far," praising the fair pricing and consistently high standards. It's clear this isn't a fly-by-night operation; several reviewers mention being loyal customers for years, with one particularly touching anecdote about a child learning to recognise the butcher, Jono, before even mastering English. This speaks volumes about the welcoming atmosphere and the personal touch that sets Tender Gourmet Butchery apart. The team’s knowledge is also frequently lauded, with staff readily offering advice tailored to individual cooking abilities – a welcome benefit for both seasoned cooks and those just starting out. The extensive sausage selection is a particular draw, and the overall vibe is described as "happy" and approachable.
The Highs: Quality Meats and Exceptional Service
The overwhelming majority of reviews sing the praises of Tender Gourmet Butchery's offerings. Here's a breakdown of what customers consistently rave about:
- Quality of Meat: The cornerstone of Tender Gourmet Butchery's success is undoubtedly the quality of its meat. Customers consistently describe the products as "fresh and tasty," with specific mentions of the aged beef cuts and a diverse range of sausages. The aged T-bones, in particular, receive high praise, with Jonathan, a key member of the team, being singled out for his expertise in sourcing and preparing these premium cuts.
- Exceptional Service: Beyond the meat itself, the service is a major differentiator. Reviewers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the "top notch banter," and the willingness to offer personalized advice. The team's genuine passion for their craft shines through, creating a positive and memorable shopping experience.
- Special Occasion Cuts: For those seeking something truly special, Tender Gourmet Butchery excels. The ability to source and prepare extra-aged cuts, like the aforementioned T-bones, makes it a go-to destination for celebratory meals.
- Burger Bliss: A surprising, yet enthusiastic, highlight is the quality of the burgers. One reviewer declared them "the best burgers I have ever had," suggesting a hidden gem within the shop's offerings.
- Convenience: The shop offers both delivery and in-store pickup, catering to busy schedules. They also accept a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Wheelchair accessibility is also a plus, with both an entrance and parking available.
Addressing the Concerns: Uber Eats and Raw Deliveries
While the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a significant number of recent reviews express serious concerns regarding Uber Eats orders. These complaints centre around the delivery of uncooked products, specifically pies and schnitzel rolls, despite the menu descriptions and accompanying photos depicting fully cooked items. Here's a summary of the issues:
| Issue | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Pies | Pies delivered uncooked, with no prior warning. | Safety concern, misleading advertising. |
| Raw Schnitzel Roll | A 150g portion of raw, crumbed chicken delivered in a plastic bag, not a roll, with no accompanying ingredients (lettuce, tomato, mayo, BBQ sauce). | Misleading advertising, potential health hazard, significant price discrepancy (A$14 for 150g of raw chicken). |
| Inaccurate Descriptions | Uber Eats menu descriptions are inaccurate, leading to customer disappointment and potentially unsafe food handling. | Erosion of trust, negative customer experience. |
These issues have prompted strong reactions from customers, with some expressing frustration and questioning the shop's quality control processes. It's crucial for Tender Gourmet Butchery to address these concerns promptly and transparently, potentially by reviewing their Uber Eats partnership and ensuring accurate menu descriptions and proper food handling procedures.
A Community Favourite: More Than Just a Butcher
Tender Gourmet Butchery is more than just a place to buy meat; it's a community hub. The personal relationships forged between the staff and customers are evident in the reviews, with many describing the shop as a "problem" – a testament to their frequent visits and genuine fondness for the establishment. The shop’s ability to cater to both everyday needs and special occasions, combined with its friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality, has solidified its position as a Bondi Junction favourite. The fact that visitors from Canberra travel specifically to purchase meat from Tender Gourmet Butchery speaks volumes about its reputation and the exceptional quality it consistently delivers. While the recent Uber Eats issues need to be addressed, the core values of quality, service, and community engagement remain firmly intact, ensuring Tender Gourmet Butchery’s continued success.
Phone: +61 2 8095 8702 Address: 71/91 Spring St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022, Australia Opening Hours: (See above for detailed schedule)