Pros 
Cons A Bounty of Bargains and Bulk Buys
West Coast Meats in Canning Vale has undeniably carved out a reputation as a go-to destination for serious meat lovers seeking bulk purchases and exceptional value. Many customers rave about the incredible prices, particularly on Saturdays when the shop transforms into a bustling market-style experience. There's a tangible sense of excitement and opportunity when visitors describe finding amazing deals and getting "your money's worth." Customers have highlighted the sheer volume of stock available, proving it's a place to truly load up.
Several reviewers specifically praised the mince beef, calling it the "best they've ever had" with a refreshingly "fresh blood" aroma – a stark contrast to the often-unpleasant smells found in supermarket meat sections. The ability to achieve a sear on minced meat, something often elusive, was also noted as a significant advantage. For those planning larger gatherings, the shop's capacity for bulk purchases is a major drawcard, with one customer procuring two 2.5kg rumps for a family birthday, saving a substantial amount compared to supermarket prices. The option to pre-order, as mentioned by a satisfied buyer prepping for Father's Day, provides an added layer of convenience. A specific comment touched on the value proposition even with the $4 boom gate fee, highlighting that the quality justifies the additional expense.
"Works out cheaper than the supermarket too… it's worth it for the good quality, I'll definitely come back another day and probably get other stuff." - Verified Customer
Quality Concerns and Food Safety Issues
While the praise for price and volume is consistent, West Coast Meats has also received concerning feedback regarding meat quality and food safety. The most impactful complaint details a disastrous experience with a tomahawk steak, deemed "so tough" that it required a tomahawk to cut it. Despite proper cooking techniques (charcoal grilling, resting), the meat proved inedible.
Even more alarming are reports about odour issues with sliced osso bucco. A family dinner was ruined when a package of the meat, supposedly with a "use by" date of August 15th, emitted a "foul" smell, reportedly causing the customer to "gag." The inability to secure an exchange or refund for the tainted product is a particularly pressing concern, raising questions about the shop's customer service and handling of potentially unsafe food.
Here’s a summary table illustrating these concerns:
| Issue | Details | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Tough Tomahawk Steak | Inedible despite proper cooking | Moderate |
| Foul-Smelling Osso Bucco | Product deemed unsafe & unuseable; delayed refund | High |
| Inaccessible Contact | Difficulties in resolving issues with the shop | Moderate (exacerbates other concerns) |
Navigating the Shopping Experience: Accessibility and Parking
West Coast Meats appears to be thoughtfully equipped regarding accessibility and some aspects of convenience. The shop boasts both wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, making it inclusive for customers with mobility requirements. Quick visits are also prioritised, suggesting an understanding of customer needs for fast and efficient service. On-site parking is available, which is a necessary convenience given the large quantities of meat customers often purchase.
However, the sheer scale of the operation has prompted warnings about parking. One customer wisely advises bringing a trolley or cart, particularly when making bulk buys, as parking close by can be challenging. While NFC mobile payments are offered, the description suggests they are not functionally available currently. This leaves customers relying on credit and debit card options, a standard but potentially limiting payment system.
A Deeply Disturbing Incident of Discrimination
The most troubling aspect of the reviews concerns a deeply disturbing incident of racial discrimination. A customer recounts being stopped by a security guard who demanded to check their bag, alleging their receipt wasn't from the shop. The guard initiated a search, and when confronted about the receipt’s authenticity (confirmed by a cashier), he allegedly stated, "people that look like you have stolen from this shop before.” A female worker supported the guard's actions, further compounding the situation. The customer felt humiliated and was forced to request a refund, an experience they described as "humiliating" and indicative of "ignorant" behavior.
This is an extremely serious allegation and raises grave concerns about systemic bias within West Coast Meats. It's crucial for the management to address this issue with utmost urgency, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all customers, regardless of their background or appearance. Such behaviour is unacceptable and damages the shop's reputation significantly. It's imperative that West Coast Meats implement staff training on cultural sensitivity, anti-discrimination policies, and respectful interactions with all patrons to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.