Pros 
Cons : # Cannings Free Range Butchers Hawthorn: A Mixed Bag of Reviews
Cannings Free Range Butchers in Hawthorn (100 Burwood Rd, Hawthorn VIC 3122, Australia, +61 1300 513 623) has cultivated a devoted following, and with a 4.3-star rating, it’s clear they’re doing something right. This article dives into the customer feedback, highlighting both the praise and concerns surrounding this popular butcher shop. Open Monday-Friday 7 AM - 7 PM, Saturday 7 AM - 6 PM, and Sunday 8 AM - 6 PM, Cannings offers a convenient schedule for meat lovers. They also prioritize accessibility with wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking.
The Good: Quality, Freshness, and Friendly Service
The overwhelming sentiment leans towards positive experiences. Many reviewers rave about the outstanding quality and freshness of the meat. Numerous customers mention a noticeable difference in taste compared to supermarket alternatives, particularly highlighting their Christmas meats – amazing hams and exceptionally juicy turkeys. One loyal customer shares, "Really love Cannings and buy all my meat here. Prices may be a bit higher than supermarkets but the quality at Cannings is worth the price..."
Beyond the product, the exceptional customer service consistently receives praise. Several reviewers highlight the friendly and helpful staff, calling out their eagerness to assist and go the extra mile. One reviewer stated, "My missus and I visited Cannings' yesterday, and we were impressed by the clean and organised place managed by what seemed like few very happy and professional employees. These people were ready (and eager) to help customers. What an awesome experience of great customer care!" A particularly enthusiastic customer even appreciates the willingness of staff to let them examine brisket selections.
Key Positives:
- Superior Meat Quality: A recurring theme throughout user reviews.
- Freshness: Noticeable difference in taste compared to supermarket meats.
- Excellent Customer Service: Friendly, helpful, and attentive staff.
- Loyalty Program: Rewards frequent customers with a 20% discount.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking available.
- Variety: “Choice of meats at different price points to suit all.”
The Concerns: Pricing and Ethical Practices
However, the idyllic picture isn’t entirely without blemishes. Two significant concerns bubble up in the feedback: pricing discrepancies and ethical questions regarding pricing practices.
One customer had a frustrating experience with being charged a significantly higher price per kilo for butterflied chicken breasts than initially indicated. They allege they weren't informed of the price increase at the time of purchase, describing it as "deceptive and very bad service.” They further claim that the tenderloins were itemized separately, adding to the confusion. This customer urges others to “BUYER BEWARE, make sure to ask what you are being charged.”
Another reviewer expressed disappointment with the quality of their scotch fillets, finding them to be thin, flavorless, and shrunk considerably after cooking. They contrast this negative experience with the previously delicious burgers they enjoyed from Cannings.
Key Concerns:
- Pricing Transparency: Some customers feel misled by unexpected price increases.
- Price versus Quality: While some find it worth the premium, others were disappointed with the value for money, citing concerns about the quality of certain cuts (like the scotch fillets).
- Questionable Practices: Concerns about potentially deceptive pricing practices raise ethical questions for some customers.
Final Thoughts:
Cannings Free Range Butchers in Hawthorn appears to be a beloved establishment for many, offering genuinely high-quality meat and a pleasant shopping experience. However, the concerns regarding pricing transparency and the consistency of quality warrants attention. While the majority of customers are delighted, potential shoppers should be vigilant about checking prices before committing to a purchase and perhaps inquire about the sourcing and preparation of specific cuts. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether the premium price and potential for exceptional quality outweigh the reported concerns about occasional inconsistencies.