Pros 
Cons total word count less than 1200)
A Welcome Addition to Hawthorn's Food Scene
Uppercuts The Place To Meat has quickly become a beloved fixture on Glenferrie Road, breathing fresh life into a previously contested retail space in Hawthorn. Locals are thrilled to finally have a high-quality butcher shop as an alternative to the often-disappointing meat selections at nearby supermarkets like IGA. The sentiment is clear: Uppercuts is not just a butcher; it’s a welcome change, offering superior produce and a much-needed boost to the local shopping experience. Several reviewers specifically call out IGA’s high prices and unfriendly service, highlighting the positive contrast Uppercuts provides. The shop's presence is being lauded as a real boon, reinvigorating the area and providing residents with a genuinely fantastic alternative for their meat needs. It's even proved capable of shifting long-established shopping habits, winning over longtime locals who’ve recognised the difference in quality.
The Meat Itself: Quality, Freshness, and Expert Recommendations
The overwhelming consensus is that Uppercuts delivers on its promise of exceptional quality and freshness. Numerous reviews mention the immaculately clean shop and the visibly fresh produce right from the start. Beyond mere freshness, though, Uppercuts stands out because of the knowledge and passion of its staff. Several customers speak of receiving fantastic recommendations and cooking tips, showcasing a commitment to more than just selling meat.
Here’s a breakdown of standout items regularly praised:
Sausages: A consistently popular choice. Lamb sausages are singled out as particularly delicious, though reviewers agree you truly can’t go wrong with any selection.
Steaks: Porterhouse and scotch fillets are frequently mentioned, with customers praising the excellent balance of age, tenderness, and freshness. One reviewer specifically mentions the scotch steaks being cooked on the BBQ with unanimous approval.
Beef Strips: Enjoyed by many, demonstrating the butcher's versatility beyond classic cuts.
Lamb Forequarter Chops: Described as "to die for" and generously sized.
Chicken Products: The pre-prepared chicken and veggie dinners are a convenient and tasty option for busy weeknights, simply requiring oven preparation.
Burgers: A crowd-pleaser bringing flavour and quality to a classic.
Bacon: Delivering the crispy, flavourful experience bacon lovers crave.
Tomahawk Steaks: While initially out of stock upon opening (with an admirable and proactive follow-up from the staff), these are now a sought-after item.
The butcher's capacity to source and provide this diverse range of products, coupled with their readily-available expertise, makes Uppercuts a destination for both everyday cooks and those seeking something special.
Service & Going Above and Beyond
What truly sets Uppercuts apart is the consistently positive feedback regarding the staff. Friendly, helpful, and going genuinely above and beyond are common themes throughout the reviews. This isn't just polite service; it’s a dedication to building relationships with customers.
- Proactive Communication: One customer recounts a delightful experience where Uppercuts staff called to inform them when their special order (tomahawk steaks) had arrived, demonstrating excellent communication and customer care.
- Cooking Advice & Recommendations: The butchers are happy to offer advice and suggest pairings, showing a willingness to share their expertise and enhance the customer’s culinary experience.
- Personalised Service: Following up on special order requests is a testament to their commitment to individual customer needs.
- Community Focused: A key quality noted by customers as Uppercuts strives to offer an alternative to larger, less personable retailers.
Accessibility & Convenience: Modern Butcher Shop Features
While Uppercuts is a traditional butcher shop at heart, it also incorporates modern conveniences, catering to a wider range of customer needs.
Here's a look at the facilities Uppercuts offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Options | Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, In-store pickup, In-store shopping, Same-day delivery - all ensuring flexibility for busy schedules. |
| Planning for Your Visit | Quick visit - Designed for efficiency and those who know exactly what they need. |
| Payment Options | Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments - Providing convenient payment choices. |
| Accessibility | Currently, Uppercuts does not offer wheelchair accessible restrooms or seating. |
The extended opening hours (8:00 AM to 6:30 PM most weekdays, Sundays until 5:00 PM) make it easily accessible for a range of schedules. The shop's online ordering and delivery services further enhance convenience, solidifying its position as a modern and customer-focused butcher shop in Hawthorn. While accessibility improvements are noted as potential enhancements, the overall emphasis on service and modern features contributes significantly to its popularity.