Pros 
Cons 's content:
A Cut Above the Rest: Elie’s Butchery's Reputation
Elie’s Butchery, nestled at 57 Coleman St, Merrylands NSW 2160, has carved out a strong reputation as a go-to destination for meat lovers across Sydney. With an impressive 4.3-star rating and consistently positive feedback, it's clear Elie’s isn't just a butcher shop; it's an experience. The sheer volume of praise tells a tale of consistently high-quality meat, competitive pricing, and a friendly atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. Many reviewers specifically highlight the extraordinary quality and freshness of the produce, noting it sets Elie’s apart from competitors. Several customers happily travel significant distances – one reviewer notably drives from Kellyville – just to secure their meat from this Merrylands institution.
The shop's dedication to service is frequently mentioned. Staff are regularly described as "happy," "friendly," and "accommodating,” swiftly attending to customers’ needs. This ease of interaction, coupled with the ability to quickly grab what you need – categorised as a "Quick Visit" planning option – contributes to Elie’s overall appeal. Payment options are convenient, accepting both debit and credit cards, and even NFC mobile payments streamlining the checkout process. The shop also recognises accessibility needs, boasting both a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot, making it welcoming to all.
The Star Players: What Customers Rave About
While consistent quality is the bedrock of Elie’s success, certain products consistently receive exceptional praise. Here's a breakdown of the standout items flagged by reviewers:
- Lebanese Sausages: These are almost universally declared a "must-try." The flavour is clearly a winning formula, establishing it as a signature item and a strong differentiator for Elie’s.
- Koftas: Another recurring favourite, described as "perfect," hinting at a carefully honed recipe and expertly prepared blend.
- Angus & Eye Fillet (Potential Issue – See Concerns Section): Initially highly praised, with a specific instance of a customer successfully securing Wagyu eye fillet after a phone call. However, a subsequent account highlights a concerning discrepancy (detailed below).
- General Quality: Numerous reviews simply state "best meat ever" or "top quality meats," illustrating a broad satisfaction with the butcher's entire selection.
Here's a summary table visualizing the popularity of mentioned proteins:
| Meat Type | Frequency Mentioned | Overall Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| Lebanese Sausage | 3 | Highly Positive |
| Kofta | 2 | Positive |
| Angus/Eye Fillet | 3 | Mixed (see below) |
| General Meat | 5+ | Highly Positive |
Navigating the Concerns: A Mixed Bag of Experiences
While the overwhelming sentiment towards Elie’s Butchery is positive, recent feedback does introduce cause for caution. The most significant concern revolves around ensuring accurate product identification, specifically in relation to their higher-end cuts like Wagyu. One customer reported a potentially misleading experience:
"Called today and asked if they had Angus reserved Waygu eye fillet they said yes they had 2 spoke to a lady , went to Baulkham hills store again asked if it was Waghu was told yes , got it home definitely was not wagyu spent $120 for normal eye fillet ."
This highlights a substantial discrepancy between what was promised and what was received, resulting in a significant financial loss for the customer. While isolated, it warrants careful consideration and potentially investigating internal communication or labeling practices. Furthermore, a Christmas Eve purchase of cutlets suffered a different issue:
"The meat has been good untill a few days ago. Picked up cutlets Christmas eve and opened them boxing day. Have to say the meat smelt really bad and off. Really disappointed."
This suggests potential issues with freshness or storage, particularly around holiday times when demand is higher. While infrequent, these incidents warrant attention and highlight the importance of rigorous quality control to maintain the shop’s established reputation. Elie’s operating hours are consistent throughout the week, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays (7 AM – 5 PM). Sunday hours are limited to 9 AM – 1 PM.
Accessibility & Convenient Options
Beyond the meat itself, Elie’s Butchery demonstrates a commitment to customer convenience and inclusivity. Understanding the diverse needs of their clientele, they’ve integrated thoughtful facilities:
- In-Store Pickup: A powerful feature allowing customers to order ahead and collect their purchases, saving time and streamlining the shopping trip. A "Quick Visit" planning option further reinforces this focus on efficient service.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Both physical access and parking are catered for, ensuring everyone can enjoy the Elie's Butchery experience – a considerable advantage lacking at many traditional butcher shops.
- Payment Flexibility: The acceptance of debit cards, credit cards, and NFC mobile payments caters to diverse customer preferences, enhancing the checkout process.
To contact Elie’s Butchery, you can call them on +61 2 8628 7949. Their physical location is 57 Coleman St, Merrylands NSW 2160, making them easily accessible within the Merrylands area. The combination of quality produce, friendly staff, and convenient facilities makes Elie’s Butchery a noteworthy contender in the Sydney butcher scene, though vigilance regarding product accuracy and consistent freshness is key to maintaining their well-earned high rating.