Pros 
Cons 's response:
A Tale of Two Experiences: The Good, The Bad, and the Stinky
Brooklyn Fine Meats, nestled within Westfield Miranda Shopping Centre, currently holds a respectable 4.8-star rating. However, a deeper dive into customer reviews reveals a fascinating dichotomy – moments of exceptional service and top-notch quality paired with concerning incidents involving freshness and poor communication. The shop’s convenient location, easily found next to Coles, seems to be a draw for many, with patrons actively choosing its offerings over the supermarket's. This suggests a perception of enhanced quality and value, despite potentially slightly higher prices on certain premium items. With opening hours stretching from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Thursday) and a consistent 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM schedule the rest of the week, Brooklyn Fine Meats aims to accomodate a wide range of shopping needs, including weekend trips. The shop is also accessible, boasting wheelchair accessible entrances and parking.
"It’s not really any more expensive... but the quality is just far better in every aspect.” - A satisfied customer.
A recurring theme amongst positive comments highlights the attentive and helpful staff. Specific praise is directed towards Robert, who has been lauded for going “over and beyond” – a prime example being his gesture of fetching a trolley for a customer visibly struggling with their groceries. Tom and Rob are also frequently mentioned, described as reliable guides who consistently provide excellent recommendations and quality cuts. This dedicated service contributes significantly to the overall positive perception of the butcher shop. Regulars appreciate the ease of a quick visit for dinner solutions, with readily available options like burgers, chicken skewers, sausages, and steaks. The accessibility is a bonus for all shoppers, and the uptake of credit/debit cards offers flexibitity in paying.
Freshness Concerns and Resolution Attempts
Despite the widespread appreciation for service, a significant number of recent reviews raise serious concerns about the freshness and quality of the meat being sold - this is the most concerning aspect of Brooklyn Fine Meats. Several customers have reported purchasing meat, particularly sausages and lamb cutlets, that quickly deteriorated and emitted a pungent odour rendering them inedible within a short drive home. One customer plainly stated the meat smelled "putrid" necessitating immediate disposal and suggested a potential issue with preservatives given the attractive display. Recurring mentions of a “shocking” smell indicate this isn't an isolated incident, with one customer specifying it was the second time they'd experienced the problem.
The lamentable aspect is the repeated difficulty customers faced when attempting to contact the store to address these concerns. Multiple reviewers reported their calls going unanswered, preventing any opportunity to inform the shop of the issue or seek a resolution. This lack of communication further exacerbates the negative experience and raises questions about Brooklyn Fine Meats’ responsiveness to customer complaints regarding food safety. It’s worth noting the high price point of the meat – a customer referencing the $59/kilo price for lamb cutlets underscores the expectation of a correspondingly high standard of freshness and quality, which, in these instances, has evidently not been met.
Standout Products & Value Picks
While some encounters with the quality have been disappointing, a significant portion of reviews champion specific products and the overall value offered. Scotch fillet steaks are highlighted as particularly impressive, with one customer describing them as "amazing" and citing "great value." This and general praise of quality supports many customers’ preference for Brooklyn Fine Meats over supermarket alternatives.
Here's a summary of frequently praised products:
- Scotch Fillet Steaks: Described as “amazing” and offering value.
- Sausages: A general favourite, though recently flagged for freshness issues.
- Chicken Skewers: Appreciated as a quick and healthy dinner option.
- Steaks (Various cuts): Consistently mentioned for their quality.
- Lamb Cutlets: Although flagged recently for freshness issues, are celebrated at other points
The shop’s versatility in providing a range of options, from budget-friendly to premium cuts, contributes to its appeal. It's not just about the high-end selections; the ability to quickly grab pre-prepared items for a convenient meal is a significant selling point for many.
Accessibility and Customer Service Highlights
Brooklyn Fine Meats appears dedicated to providing a welcoming and convenient experience for a broad range of customers. The Westfield Miranda location itself offers a plethora of benefits, but the butcher shop's own efforts to enhance accessibility are noteworthy.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Features both wheelchair accessible entrances and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
- Convenient Planning: The shop is perfect for a “quick visit” for last-minute needs.
- Exceptional Staff: Robert's proactive assistance (fetching a trolley) exemplifies the outstanding customer service many customers have experienced. Tom and Rob’s expertise and recommendations are also regularly praised. The consistently friendly and helpful staff create a positive shopping environment.
- Sunday Hours: Open Sundays for customers who prefer to shop over the weekend.