Pros 
Cons A Perth Favourite for Specialty Cuts and Pork Perfection
So Fresh Butcher, located at 375 William St, Perth WA 6003, has carved out a distinctive niche within the Perth meat scene, becoming a go-to destination for those seeking something beyond the standard supermarket fare. Its 3.8-star rating reflects a mixed bag of experiences, highlighting both dedicated fans and some points for improvement. The shop's strength undeniably lies in its dedication to specific cut preferences, particularly for the Chinese community. Multiple reviews specifically praise So Fresh Butcher as the place for Chinese cut pork, a testament to their understanding and catering to a specific culinary need. This extends beyond just pork, with a significant mention of a fantastic range of pork products overall. The beef and pork balls are consistently hailed as the “best in Perth,” receiving acclaim for their exceptional flavour and texture. Offal options are also plentiful, catering to a wider range of cooking styles and dietary preferences. It’s even been specifically endorsed by a local Chinese restaurant owner, adding significant weight to their reputation for authenticity and quality in Asian-style butchery. Further bolstering this claim is the availability of US cut spare ribs, a rarity in Northern Perth, ready to purchase at $17/kg. It’s clear that So Fresh Butcher isn't just about volume; it's about offering unique and hard-to-find cuts that elevate the home cooking experience.
Payment Options and Parking Perks – Navigating the Practicalities
When visiting So Fresh Butcher, it’s important to be aware of the payment infrastructure and the surrounding area's parking situation. The shop accepts debit card payments and NFC mobile payments, allowing for convenient contactless transactions. Sadly, credit card facilities are not currently available. A key point of contention for some customers is the 50c eftpos charge applied to purchases under $20. While this charge is becoming less common, it's noticeably unpopular amongst patrons, especially considering the minimum spend requirement.
Here’s a quick rundown of payment options:
| Payment Type | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Debit Cards | Yes | |
| NFC Mobile Payments | Yes | Contactless options available |
| Credit Cards | No | Unavailable at time of writing |
Fortunately, the area surrounding So Fresh Butcher offers reasonable parking options, despite being in the city centre. Several reviewers mention the existence of free 1-hour parking around the area if you’re willing to hunt for it. Planning your visit, particularly if you anticipate a larger purchase, might involve scoping out parking beforehand.
Moments of Delight & Disappointment: Customer Experiences
Customer reviews provide a nuanced picture of experiences at So Fresh Butcher, illustrating both the highs and lows. On the positive side, the shop is generally well-regarded for its reasonable pricing and a wide variety of meats. The staff are frequently mentioned as helpful, particularly in providing guidance and recommendations. Several reviews simply state the sentiment "Very nice this place, I loved go there..." which speaks to a generally positive atmosphere and pleasant shopping experience.
However, there are also accounts that highlight areas for improvement. One particularly concerning incident involved a customer arriving at 6:08pm, just after closing time. Despite the door being ajar and a selection of meats still on display, the staff allegedly refused to serve the customer, even with a cash offer. This experience was described as "a joke" and raised questions about customer service responsiveness and missed opportunities. A recurring, albeit less severe, complaint revolves around the staff's attitude towards customers. While helpfulness is often mentioned, there are instances where customer service has been perceived as lacking in warmth or friendliness.
Here’s a summary of common feedback:
- Positive: Helpful staff, reasonable prices, wide variety of meats, excellent pork balls, availability of specialty cuts.
- Negative: Occasionally perceived rude/unhelpful staff, refusal of service shortly after closing hours (isolated incident), 50c eftpos charge for small purchases.
Contact Information and Further Considerations
For those looking to experience So Fresh Butcher firsthand, or to clarify details regarding their stock, the contact number is +61 8 9328 8797. While a specific address is provided (375 William St, Perth WA 6003, Australia), information about opening hours isn't readily available online. Checking closer to your planned visit is recommended to ensure the shop is open.
It is also worth noting that the absence of online ordering or delivery services presents a limitation for customers who prefer the convenience of online shopping. The current focus seems to be on providing a traditional butcher shop experience with a specific emphasis on specialty cuts and personalised service. While the shop has a loyal following, addressing concerns about customer service and streamlining payment options could significantly elevate the overall customer experience, potentially boosting their rating and solidifying their position as a top butcher in Perth.