Pros 
Cons )
A Melton Institution: Tasman Butchers’ Strengths & Value
Tasman Butchers Melton has undeniably carved out a strong reputation as a go-to destination for quality meats within the Melton community. With a consistent 4.0-star rating, it's clear customers appreciate what the butcher shop offers. A key drawcard is undoubtedly the excellent value for money. Many reviewers highlight amazing prices and consistently good specials, making it an attractive option for both regular shoppers and those buying in bulk. The wide selection of produce is also a frequently mentioned positive, offering a diverse range of meats alongside surprisingly useful additions like pasta (both dry and filled), seafood, eggs, tomato passata, and even panettones. Beyond the basics, the inclusion of dog bones is a thoughtful touch, catering to a broader customer base. The shop also offers convenient service options, including both in-store shopping and delivery, indicating a commitment to meeting customer needs.
The willingness of the staff to provide value-added services further elevates Tasman Butchers. Customers rave about how happy the butchers are to help with tasks like dicing and chopping meat, saving shoppers considerable time and effort. One regular customer noted, “Butchers (assistants?) are happy to help dice and chop anything you're buying which saves me a huge job." This personalized service, coupled with the great prices, creates a loyalty loop—many customers explicitly state they’ve become regulars and plan to continue shopping there for years to come. The attention to detail – a cashier proactively offering extra wrapping for the beef liver, reflecting a desire to ensure quality and prevent mess – reinforces this commitment to customer care. A particular shout-out is given to "Rhonda," whose friendly service is greatly appreciated.
Mixed Experiences: Service & Quality Concerns
While overwhelmingly positive, reviews of Tasman Butchers do highlight some inconsistencies, primarily concerning customer service and occasional quality slips. A significant number of reviews praise the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff – the "gem" mentioned repeatedly – however, there’s a recurring critique regarding the behaviour of a specific employee. Several customers recount interactions with an older Indian worker described as consistently aloof and lacking basic courtesy, with instances of complete silence during transactions ("didn't even say hello or goodbye"). This experience has left a lasting impression on multiple shoppers, creating a noticeably awkward and unwelcome atmosphere.
Beyond service, a small but concerning number of customers reported issues with the freshness of their purchases. Notably, two reviewers mention purchasing items – T-bone steak and wingettes – that exhibited an unpleasant odour and had to be discarded, despite being well within their best-before dates. This raises legitimate concerns about potential storage or handling practices, although it's acknowledged as an isolated incident. It’s a reminder that even reputable establishments can sometimes face occasional quality control issues, and the impact on customer satisfaction can be significant.
Here's a summary of the key concerns:
| Issue | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Unresponsive Staff | Some staff members are reported to be consistently silent and unhelpful during transactions | Recurring |
| Questionable Meat Quality | Isolated instances of meat having an off odour despite being within the BB date | Rare |
Accessibility, Ambiance and the Practicalities of Shopping
Tasman Butchers Melton appears to cater well to diverse needs with its accessibility features. It boasts both a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, making it an inclusive option for shoppers with mobility challenges. The shop’s emphasis on quick visits supports a streamlined shopping experience. Payment options are also comprehensive, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments – with card facilities clearly operational.
However, some practical considerations detract slightly from the overall experience. Parking is frequently cited as a challenge, with spots filling up quickly. For those prioritizing a warmer shopping environment, the consistently cold temperature within the store could be off-putting; while this is acknowledged as a measure to maintain meat freshness, customers are advised to bring a jacket. Finally, freezer space at home is listed by one customer as a limiting factor for bulk purchases, demonstrating the shop's capacity to offer substantial quantities.
What Customers Are Saying: A Collection of Quotes
To give a fuller picture, here’s a direct sampling of customer feedback, showcasing the range of opinions and experiences:
"I buy here very regularly and in bulk. Butchers (assistants?) Are happy to help dice and chop anything you're buying which saves me a huge job.”
“One of the best customer service places I've ever been. And amazing prices!!"
“Usually love Tasman Butcher but something was off with our last purchase…Wasted $26 in meat…displeased.”
"Great prices and great selection of produce...I'm now a regular..."
“The other lady there is a gem 💎”
“Not too bad, first in first serve, a little expensive parking gets full real quick”
“Always has good range. Lady at the front door cashier offered to extra wrap the beef liver today just to make sure it doesn't leak. Very polite and good service."
"Definitely treated like a person not a number. Shopping there for years and many to come. Good stuff Rhonda.”
"Best place for thick cut Rib Eye!"
“Good quality meat with excellent variety. Staff always helpful and nice. The place is a little cold (you may take a jacket :) ) but this is also a sign that the meats are kept in perfect condition of temperature."