Pros 
Cons 's voice here)
A Legacy of Quality: Coburg Meat Supply's Enduring Reputation
Coburg Meat Supply has been a fixture in the Coburg community for a remarkable 25 years, and for many locals, it represents the gold standard for quality meat. Numerous customers consistently praise the butcher shop's offerings, particularly for special occasions. There’s a palpable loyalty amongst its regulars, with many stating they wouldn’t shop for meat anywhere else. This longevity speaks volumes about the shop’s commitment to sourcing excellent cuts and providing a certain level of expertise.
“The best quality meats around. Has been the best butcher in the Coburg area for the last 25 years. I wouldn't go any where else!” – A loyal customer
Several reviewers highlight the unparalleled preparation of meat for spit-roasting, consistently earning Coburg Meat Supply high marks in this area. They're recognised as providing the "best prepared meat for the spit that we've tasted", indicating a skill and understanding of meat cuts specific for that cooking method. It’s this focus on specialized preparations, along with the consistently good quality, that has fostered a strong, devoted customer base.
Hygiene Concerns and Customer Service Issues Emerge
Despite the positive sentiments surrounding the quality of the meat, a significant number of reviews reveal serious concerns regarding hygiene and customer service practices. These issues are so prevalent they warrant careful consideration.
Here's a breakdown of the recurring criticisms:
- Bare-Handed Handling: Multiple reviewers have flagged the owner’s practice of handling meat directly with his bare hands, a stark contrast to the glove-wearing of other staff members. This deviates from standard food safety procedures and hygiene expectations within the industry. The absence of a mask during meat handling has also been repeatedly mentioned, furthering these concerns.
- Cross-Contamination Risks: A particularly troubling observation is the salesperson's habit of handling both meat and money with the same hands. This poses a serious risk of cross-contamination and is a significant hygiene violation.
- Short-Changing and Defensive Behaviour: One customer reported being short-changed and experiencing a defensive reaction when the error was brought to the butcher’s attention. This suggests a concerning pattern of unprofessional customer service and a reluctance to address mistakes.
- Excessive Salting: Critically, a large Easter order of gyro lamb and chicken proved inedible due to excessive salt content. The complete loss of 8kg of meat is a devastating experience for any customer and points to potential quality control issues in their marinades/seasoning.
It’s important to note the consistency of these complaints; they’re not isolated incidents but rather recurring themes throughout the reviews.
Pricing & Product Discrepancies: Are Expectations Aligned?
While lauding the consistent quality, some customers voiced concerns regarding pricing and accuracy in fulfilling orders. One customer specifically pointed out a discrepancy in their order, stating they paid for goat meat but received a lamb leg that was cut into curry pieces, incurring a cost of $15.00/kg. This has been labelled a “Rip Off” highlighting the potential for misunderstandings or errors in communication and order fulfillment.
Another comment mentions a desire for larger steak cuts, which suggests a potential mismatch between customer expectations and the cuts currently offered. While subjective, this feedback indicates room for improvement in catering to diverse preferences.
Here's a summary table outlining pricing and order accuracy concerns:
| Issue | Description | Potential Impact on Customer |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect Meat | Paid for goat, received lamb. | Financial loss, dissatisfaction |
| Steak Size | Desire for larger cuts. | Lower satisfaction, perceived value |
| Excessive Salt | Gyro lamb and chicken were over-salted. | inedible food, financial loss |
Convenient Services & Payment Options
Despite the controversies, Coburg Meat Supply does offer some practical advantages for customers. The butcher shop provides delivery services, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to shop from home. The acceptance of NFC mobile payments further adds to the ease of transactions in today’s digital landscape.
These features demonstrate a willingness to adapt to modern customer preferences, alongside the traditional butcher experience. The ease of ordering and payment are definitely strengths, offering a counterpoint to the negative experiences reported in other areas.
Contact Information:
- Phone: +61 3 9354 1889
- Address: Shop 1/12 Victoria St, Coburg VIC 3058, Australia
- Category: Butcher shop