Pros 
Cons Meat On Shakespeare: A Local Legend in Mackay's Butcher Scene
Meat On Shakespeare, located at Shop 4/340 Shakespeare St, Mackay QLD 4740, is more than just a butcher shop; it's quickly becoming a local institution. With a solid 4.000000 rating, it's clear this establishment is striking a chord with Mackay residents and even attracting customers from further afield. The shop prides itself on offering a great variety of meats at competitive prices, frequently outperforming supermarket options – a sentiment echoed repeatedly in customer reviews. Phone them on +61 7 4957 4468 if you need to reach them. Operating hours are consistent Monday to Friday (8 AM – 5:30 PM) and Saturday (7 AM – 2 PM), closed on Sundays to allow for rest and replenishment.
"Honestly the best pork roast I ever had! I live 2 hours away and it's worth the drive for the quality." - Local Customer
The shop’s commitment to quality extends beyond just providing exceptional meat. They understand the modern needs of shoppers, accepting credit cards, debit cards, and even NFC mobile payments for seamless transactions. Focusing on a "Quick Visit" experience, Meat On Shakespeare strives to make your meat purchasing as easy and efficient as possible. This emphasis on customer service and convenience is a key differentiator in the crowded retail landscape. The customer's experience is further enhanced by the friendly and helpful staff, often going the extra mile – a particularly appreciated trait for parents with young children. They frequently offer assistance, a touch that demonstrates genuine care.
Rave Reviews & Remarkable Specialties
The overwhelmingly positive feedback speaks volumes about Meat On Shakespeare’s reputation. Recurring themes of praise highlight specific products and the overall experience:
- Smoked Bacon: The house-smoked bacon repeatedly emerges as a standout item. Customers describe it as "awesome," "top notch," and "the best bacon I've ever had!" It’s frequently purchased for weekend breakfasts, a testament to its deliciousness and appeal.
- Family Packs: For families on a budget, the family packs are a lifesaver. Providing great value and ample portions, they tailor to those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality.
- Sausages: Their honey herb & garlic sausages are particularly lauded, praised for their exceptional flavour. A variety of sausages are offered, catering to diverse palates.
- Pork Belly & Rib Fillets: The pork belly is described as "exceptional," and both local and Tasmanian rib fillets consistently receive rave reviews.
- Beer Sticks: A unique and delicious offering for those seeking a savoury snack.
- Grass Fed Rib Fillet: A traditional favourite, especially appreciated by those who remember it from previous years.
| Product Category | Customer Sentiment | Key Descriptors |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | Exceedingly Positive | House-smoked, Awesome, Best ever |
| Sausages | Positive | Honey herb & garlic, Exceptional Flavour, Diverse Variety |
| Rib Fillets | Very Positive | Local & Tasmanian, Exceptional |
| Pork Belly | Positive | Exceptional |
| Family Packs | Positive | Great Value, Budget-Friendly |
Addressing Concerns & Maintaining High Standards
While the majority of reviews are undeniably positive, a few customers have voiced concerns, primarily regarding the quality of certain cuts of meat. One customer reported a marinated lamb roast being excessively fatty and chewy, leading to disappointment. Meat On Shakespeare's response to this, and other concerns, is crucial to retaining its stellar reputation.
It’s important to note the passionate and often humorous defence of the shop from other customers, with one reviewer joking that dissatisfied critics might “have no taste buds" suggesting a strong sense of loyalty and community around the butcher. Despite these isolated criticisms, the consistent endorsements of quality and service demonstrate a dedication to customer satisfaction. A commitment to selecting superior cuts and addressing individual concerns promptly and effectively will be key to maintaining Meat On Shakespeare’s positive trajectory. It's also worth noting that a detail of planning, quick visits are catered for with the customer in mind.
More Than Just Meat: A Community Hub
Meat On Shakespeare is clearly evolving into something more than just a place to buy meat. It’s becoming a community hub, particularly for shoppers frequenting the nearby Mackay Farmers Market. The easy access and convenient hours (especially Saturday’s early opening) make it a natural extension of the market experience.
Furthermore, the willingness of staff to assist customers, particularly parents, fosters a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The shop provides a refreshing alternative to the impersonal experience of larger supermarket chains, building loyalty through personalized service and high-quality products. The offer of a wide selection of meats, including game meats for the more adventurous eater, clearly demonstrates a genuine interest in catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Ultimately Meat On Shakespeare is carving out a unique space in the Mackay retail landscape.