Pros 
Cons The Good: High-Quality Meat and Competitive Prices
Imperial Meat Co, located at 2 Florence St, Hornsby, consistently receives praise for the quality of its meat offerings. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional marbling found in their steaks, particularly the tomahawk steaks which are often available as a $25 special—a price point that's widely considered remarkable for such a premium cut. The shop is often lauded for its serious commitment to beef quality and a dedication to providing customers with a fantastic steak experience.
- Tomahawk Steaks: A standout item, frequently recommended for its incredible marbling and rendering quality. Customers are impressed with the value for money, especially at the promotional price.
- Wagyu Beef: The chatty branch of the shop is particularly singled out for its exquisite Wagyu. Reviewers use terms like "preem" to describe the quality, suggesting a truly top-tier product.
- Overall Quality: The general consensus is that Imperial Meat Co prioritises quality above all else. This isn't a butcher shop where corners are cut or compromises made – they're clearly passionate about their product.
- Value for Money: Several customers repeatedly express their satisfaction with the prices, specifically noting that the exceptional quality is offered at a competitive rate. This makes it a go-to spot for discerning meat lovers looking for a bargain.
Concerns Regarding Hygiene and Practices
While Imperial Meat Co garners significant praise for its meat quality, serious concerns have been raised by some customers regarding the cleanliness of the premises and the adherence to proper hygiene procedures. These are unfortunately significant criticisms that warrant consideration for anyone planning a visit.
Hygiene Issues: Multiple reviewers have reported a concerning lack of cleanliness, citing the use of the same processing machines for different types of meat (beef, chicken, and pork) without adequate washing in-between. This poses a potential cross-contamination risk, which is a serious concern for food safety.
Equipment Practices: The failure to properly clean equipment after processing various meat types raises questions about the shop's protocol and is in direct opposition to food safety standards.
Table illustrating potential cross-contamination risk:
Meat Type Processing Machine Potential Allergen/Pathogen Transfer Beef Mincing Machine E. coli, Salmonella Chicken Mincing Machine Campylobacter, Salmonella Pork Mincing Machine Trichinella, E. coli Wagyu Beef Mincing Machine Potential transfer of any of the above Impact on Consumers: The potential for cross-contamination is particularly worrying for individuals with allergies or specific dietary requirements (religious or otherwise).
Customer Service: A Polarised Experience
The customer service at Imperial Meat Co appears to be a source of significant disparity in customer experiences. While some customers have enjoyed friendly interactions, others have reported unsettling instances of rudeness and discriminatory behaviour.
- Positive Interactions: A small number of customers have described pleasant and helpful service. However, these experiences are overshadowed by the more concerning accounts.
- Negative Experiences: Discrimination: Disturbingly, several reviewers have alleged experiencing discriminatory treatment. One review explicitly states a customer was told not to return due to their ethnicity ("told you should not come because you are not chinese"). This is a serious accusation that demands attention and reflects poorly on the shop's inclusivity.
- Rudeness & Unprofessionalism: In addition to the allegations of discrimination, multiple users reported encounters with rude and unprofessional staff. This leaves potential customers with concerns about the overall shopping atmosphere and the attention they’ll receive.
- Impact on Reputation: The presence of such negative feedback drastically impacts the shop’s reputation and can deter customers who prioritise respectful customer service.
A Mixed Verdict: Is Imperial Meat Co Worth a Visit?
Imperial Meat Co presents a complex picture. The shop clearly excels in providing high-quality, beautifully marbled meat, particularly their tomahawk steaks and Wagyu beef, all at very competitive prices. This is a significant draw for those seeking top-tier cuts. However, the serious concerns regarding hygiene practices and reports of discriminatory customer service cast a significant shadow over the positive aspects.
- Considerations Before Visiting:
- Hygiene Sensitivity: If you're particularly sensitive to hygiene and food safety standards, you might want to reconsider a visit until these concerns are addressed.
- Dietary Restrictions & Allergies: Individuals with allergies or specific dietary needs (religious or otherwise) are strongly advised to avoid this shop.
- Customer Service: Be prepared for the possibility of encountering indifferent or even rude service.
- Ultimately: Imperial Meat Co is a shop with immense potential, undermined by critical flaws. Until improvements are made in hygiene and customer service, prospective customers should weigh the appealing prices and stellar cuts against the considerable risks and potential for unpleasant experiences. The shop needs to prioritise creating a welcoming and safe environment for all customers.