Pros 
Cons 's content:
A Mosman Institution: Penny's – History and Reputation
Penny's Butcher Shop, nestled at 880 Military Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, isn’t just a place to grab a steak; it's a deeply ingrained part of the local community. For years, it's built a reputation as a go-to destination for premium meats and exceptional service. Many customers have been visiting for years, and it’s clearly a place where relationships are cultivated – a rarity in today's fast-paced world. The shop operates under consistent hours throughout the week (7 AM – 6 PM Monday to Friday, 7 AM – 4 PM Saturday and Sunday), making it accessible for busy families and discerning food lovers alike.
The shop’s old-school charm is a significant draw. It's characterized by a team of dedicated butchers – both men and women – who are passionate about providing top-tier service. Beyond merely selling meat, Penny's specialises in offering thoughtful cooking suggestions, recipes, and expert advice. Recipes are even displayed at the back of the store, offering inspiration for home cooks. The selection extends beyond basic cuts, boasting an impressive range of sausages, cured meats, and specialty items like homemade jams that complement their core offerings. It's evident that Penny's aims to be more than just a butcher; they aspire to be a culinary resource for their community. Accessibility is also a priority, with both wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking available. They accept credit and debit cards, as well as NFC mobile payments.
Praises and Premium Quality – The High Notes
The overwhelming sentiment regarding Penny's revolves around quality and friendly service. Several reviews highlight this consistently. Customers rave about the consistent quality of the meat, especially those who frequently purchase aged meat. The prices, though higher than supermarket alternatives, are considered justifiable for the premium goods on offer. Here's a breakdown of some of the standout praises:
- Exceptional Service Stories: A particularly touching anecdote details how a customer was lent a massive pan from the shop to ensure the perfect cooking of their Christmas gammon – demonstrating a level of care and dedication rarely seen. This goes far beyond simply selling meat; it's about helping customers succeed in their culinary endeavours.
- Knowledgeable Staff: The staff are consistently described as "friendly," "knowledgeable,” and “helpful” – always ready to offer advice and share cooking tips.
- Comprehensive Selection: The expansive range of meats, fish and accompanying products fuels repeat visits. It’s clear that Penny's caters to a wide spectrum of tastes and culinary ambitions.
- Biltong & Jerky Fanatics: Their hot chilli Biltong gets a special call-out, with devotees citing it as a prime example of the shop’s excellent quality.
| Aspect | Comment |
|---|---|
| Meat Quality | "Top quality aged meat" |
| Staff Assistance | "Always so helpful & friendly" |
| Product Variety | "Extensive range of meats, fish and extras" |
| Special Mention | “Love their quality hot chilli Biltong!” |
Recent Concerns & Quality Consistencies
While historically lauded, recent feedback indicates a potential decline in quality and a few operational hiccups. It’s important to highlight these concerns alongside the prevailing praise, providing a balanced perspective. Several salient points have been raised:
- Variable Meat Quality: One customer noted a noticeable drop in meat quality, claiming it was “at the level of a pretty average butcher or even worse.” They also observed that the price remained high despite this perceived decline. This raises concerns about consistency and the shop maintaining its previously high standards.
- Knowledge Gaps Among Staff: An incident involving a customer requesting a specific chicken cut highlights a noticeable gap in the knowledge of some staff members. The inability to confidently identify the meat's origin raises questions about sourcing and quality control. The customer felt uneasy about where the meat was coming from due to this.
- Crumbed Cutlet Disappointment: A significant complaint involved a purchase of crumbed lamb cutlets. The reviewer expressed disappointment with the crumb coating, describing it as “flavourless, soggy, and thoroughly disappointing,” especially considering the high price of $70/kg. This suggests potential issues with preparation or ingredient quality.
These issues, while not universal, are enough to signal a need for attention and a possible re-evaluation of certain processes to ensure Penny's consistently delivers on its reputation for quality.
Contact & Getting There - Your Penny's Experience
- Address: 880 Military Rd, Mosman NSW 2088, Australia
- Phone: +61 2 9969 3372
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Tuesday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Wednesday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Thursday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Friday: 7 AM–6 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–4 PM
- Payment Options: Credit cards, Debit cards, NFC mobile payments accepted.
Whether you're a long-time local or a visitor looking for premium meats and friendly service, Penny's remains a noteworthy establishment. It’s a beloved institution but it appears they may need to address some recent consistency concerns to truly maintain their position as a leading butcher in Mosman. The accessibility perks are a plus for all customers.