Pros 
Cons A South Yarra Staple: Why Cannings Earns Top Marks
Cannings Free Range Butchers in South Yarra consistently ranks highly amongst Melbourne's butcher elite, and for good reason. Boasting a stellar 4.8-star rating, this Chapel Street establishment isn't just about selling meat; it's about providing exceptional quality, friendly service, and convenient solutions for busy households. The shop operates with extended opening hours – 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm Saturday, and a generous 8am to 7pm on Sundays – catering to a wide range of schedules. It’s clear Cannings aims to be a reliable, everyday destination for locals. And with wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, they're making their services accessible to everyone. While currently delivery options aren’t offered, the ability to pop in for a quick visit makes grabbing those dinner staples hassle-free. The acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments adds to its convenient appeal.
Praises & Plates: What Customers Are Saying
The chorus of positive feedback surrounding Cannings is undeniable, and it goes beyond simply saying the meat is good. Customers consistently highlight the quality and care involved at every stage – from sourcing to preparation. Here's a breakdown of some recurring themes from online reviews:
- Exceptional Meat Quality: Many reviewers express surprise and delight at the consistently high standard of the meat. Phrases like "melts in your mouth" and "sliced to perfection" are common. The appreciation for quality Australian meat is a strong thread throughout the comments.
- Prepared Meals a Revelation: The pre-cooked Shepherd’s Pie receives particular adoration. One customer declared it "the best [they’ve] ever tasted," praising the sweet potato topping and the quality of ingredients. The enchiladas, maple pork steaks, and lamb gyros chops are also regularly lauded as easy and delicious dinner solutions.
- Staff That Shine: It’s not just the products that impress. Numerous reviews specifically mention the friendly and helpful staff. One heartwarming story recounts a staff member, Max, going above and beyond to assist a customer with a pram wheel issue, demonstrating a level of service rarely seen these days. This dedication to exceptional customer interaction is clearly a key differentiator.
- Specific Standouts: Beyond the prepared items, enthusiastic mentions go to:
- Vela or Chicken Schnitzels: described as "darn good."
- Pork Cutlets: "Something else!"
- Marinades: A convenient and flavourful way to elevate simple meals.
- Feedback is Heard: Cannings seem to actively engage with customer feedback. One review, initially critical of the Massaman curry pies (crying out for more gravy and more curry flavour), was met with a response acknowledging the feedback—a positive sign of responsiveness and a commitment to improvement.
Addressing the Nibbles: Areas for Potential Growth
While overwhelmingly positive, some reviewers have offered constructive criticism, pointing out areas where Cannings could potentially enhance their offerings. These comments aren't detractors but rather valuable insights for continued improvement:
- Curry Pie Consistency: Several customers noted the Massaman curry pies could benefit from a richer gravy and bolder curry flavour. Adjusting the recipe to ensure consistent flavour across batches might address this.
- Cash Acceptance: A shift towards accepting cash payments (which has been confirmed to be happening) was specifically requested by one customer, broadening accessibility for all shoppers.
- Delivery Services: The lack of current delivery options is a recurring point, especially for those with limited mobility or time constraints. Exploring a local delivery partnership could be a worthwhile investment.
- Product Variety: While lauded for its variety, some folk value a larger selection to keep their everyday shopping choice interesting.
The Cannings Commitment: More Than Just a Butcher
Beyond the cuts of meat and prepared meals, Cannings Free Range Butchers seems to have cultivated a loyal following based on a deeper commitment to quality, service, and community. They’re not just a shop where you buy meat; they’re a neighbourhood resource offering convenient solutions and a genuinely welcoming experience. The willingness to acknowledge and respond to customer feedback showcases a dedication to continual improvement and reinforces the impression that Cannings is a butcher shop that truly cares about its patrons. The convenient central location on Chapel Street, combined with accessibility features, solidifies their position as a vital and well-regarded fixture in South Yarra. Phone to reach them on +61 1300 513 623. The shop’s address is: Shop G, 008/670 Chapel St, South Yarra VIC 3141, Australia.