Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce: A Local Butcher Shop Gem in Eltham

)

A Cut Above the Rest: What Customers Love About Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce

Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce, nestled at 61/67 Beard St, Eltham VIC 3095, is a local favourite racking up a stellar 4.9-star rating. More than just a butcher shop, it’s become a cornerstone of the Eltham community. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional quality of the meat, seafood and poultry, consistently praising its freshness and organic nature. For those seeking top-tier organic meats, this butcher shop is frequently cited as the best in the area, eclipsing other butchers with its offerings. A recurring theme is the outstanding flavour; the sausages are repeatedly described as the "best ever tasted," and the bacon receives significant praise, with many declaring it "to die for." Don't overlook the range of organ meats available either, a feature appreciated by those seeking a wider selection. The shop’s accessibility is a plus too, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot ensuring ease of access for all.

"Cannot recommend this organic butcher enough! Produce is always fresh and great customer service. Bert & Amber are so friendly and even have great cooking advice. I can confirm the store is ALWAYS lovely and cool inside and everything in the window just looks delicious!" – A happy customer

The friendly and knowledgeable staff contribute significantly to the positive experience. Many reviews specifically mention Bert and Amber, highlighting their warmth, willingness to offer cooking advice, and the welcoming atmosphere they create. The thoughtful additions, like playing great music (Elvis is a particular favourite!) also adds to the unique appeal. The willingness to cater to custom orders, as demonstrated by the butcher happily deboning a chicken and adding stuffing on request, is also a standout service that’s often missing in larger supermarkets.

Navigating the Niggles: Where Yarra Valley Poultry Could Improve

While overwhelmingly positive, not all experiences at Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce have been flawless. A few customers have expressed concerns regarding pricing, finding some items significantly more expensive than at other organic butchers, sometimes as much as $10 per kg. This price difference has prompted some to reconsider frequenting the shop, despite the quality.

Another area for potential improvement revolves around their knife sharpening service. Several reviewers recount a disappointing experience, with a customer reporting that their knives were left "basically ruined" after being sharpened. This feedback suggests a serious need for re-evaluation of their sharpening techniques or a reconsideration of whether to offer the service at all.

Finally, a few reviewers mentioned a noticeable warmth within the shop during their visits. While others note the shop is "always lovely and cool," these instances raise concerns about temperature control, potentially affecting the freshness of the produce, especially during warmer periods.

Here's a breakdown of potential areas for consideration:

A Deeper Dive: What They Offer (Beyond the Meat)

Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce isn't just about providing premium meats; they've cultivated a range of offerings that cater to diverse needs and tastes. Here's a closer look at what you can expect:

• Poultry: From whole chickens to boneless chicken roasts (prepared fresh upon request), Maryland's, and succulent lamb cooked on the spit, they have a wide variety of poultry options.
• Meat: A focus on organic and top-quality meats. Despite a reviewer not finding boneless chicken roasts at the time of their visit, the butcher's willingness to cater to individual requests showcases their flexibility.
• Seafood: While described as a “small selection”, the fish is consistently praised as “probably the best in the Eltham area” regarding quality.
• Sausages: The undisputed champion – repeatedly hailed as the best sausages ever tasted.
• Bacon: Frequently described as "to die for," highlighting a dedication to exceptional flavour.
• Organ Meats: A welcome addition for those seeking a wider selection, demonstrating a commitment to providing a comprehensive range.
• Custom Orders: The shop excels in handling custom requests, showcasing a willingness to go above and beyond for their customers.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot for convenient access.
• Payment Options: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Opening Hours:

A Hidden Gem in Eltham – Supporting Local Quality

Many reviewers emphasize Yarra Valley Poultry & Produce's status as a "hidden gem" tucked away from the main road, highlighting its importance as a local institution. It represents a refreshing alternative to larger supermarket chains, offering personalised service and a commitment to quality that's increasingly rare. The dedication to organic produce, combined with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, fosters a strong connection with the community. Supporting this local butcher isn't just about buying meat; it’s about supporting a business that clearly values its customers, prioritises quality, and contributes to the vibrancy of Eltham.

Contact Details:

• Phone: +61 432 283 819
• Address: 61/67 Beard St, Eltham VIC 3095, Australia