Pros 
Cons A South Yarra Staple: Neil's Meats' Enduring Appeal
Neil's Meats, nestled within Stall 506 of 163 Commercial Rd, South Yarra, isn't just another butcher shop; it's a Melbourne institution. Boasting a steady 4.5-star rating, Neil's Meats has cultivated a loyal following for over five years, drawing customers from across the city. What sets them apart isn't just the quality of their meat – though that is undeniable – but the commitment to exceptional service and a genuine passion for their craft. Their opening hours (closed Mondays and Wednesdays) mean planning ahead is key, but the rewarding experience is worth the effort. Conveniently, they offer in-store pickup, accept credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments (though credit cards are listed as potentially unavailable - best to confirm!), and boast wheelchair accessible entry for ease of access.
"I live the other side of town and have been travelling kms for over 5 years just because this butcher has the best quality and selection I've found and I've done everything from organic meats in South Melbourne to local butchers that have been around for generations." - A devoted customer, highlighting the lengths people go to for Neil's Meats.
The shop’s foundation is built upon the ownership and vision of Paul, who’s consistently praised for his patient guidance and helpful advice. The reputation extends beyond just fresh cuts; Neil’s Meats is known for its remarkable Wagyu selection across a range of price points, alongside staples like unexpected-ly fantastic BBQ sausages. The consistent compliments regarding packaging and freshness further underscore their dedication to preserving the quality of their products. A relatively recent addition – delivery service – has only enhanced the accessibility and convenience for their increasingly loyal clientele.
The Meat of the Matter: Quality and Selection
The reviews sing praises of specific cuts, demonstrating a breadth of expertise and quality. Here's a snapshot of what’s drawing people in:
- Premium Cuts: The scotch fillet receives high marks ("fantastic!"), while the dry-aged rib eye claims the title of "one of the best steak I've ever tried." Wagyu, frequently mentioned, is described as “second to none.”
- Specialty Items: Beef cheeks and ribs consistently receive glowing references, with one customer particularly praising Daniel’s advice regarding the beef cheeks. Pork belly, expertly prepared with scoring, salting, and clear instructions, has even resulted in crackling triumphs for novice cooks.
- Everyday Essentials: Even their humble beef sausages are a hit, particularly with younger customers - "My 5 year old loves their beef sausages!". The sheer quality elevates even the simplest purchase.
- Aged Excellence: The ageing process is clearly a point of pride, with numerous customers remarking on the "mouth watering" aged steaks.
Here's a quick summary table of frequently praised items:
| Meat/Product | Common Feedback |
|---|---|
| Scotch Fillet | Fantastic quality, flavourful |
| Wagyu | Top-tier quality, broad selection |
| Beef Cheeks | Delicious, Daniel's advice exceptional |
| Ribs | Very tasty |
| Dry Aged Rib Eye | One of the best steaks ever tried |
| Beef Sausages | A hit with children, great value |
| Pork Belly | Expertly prepared, instructions for crackling |
Addressing the Dissent: A Case of Misfortune?
While overwhelmingly positive, Neil's Meats does have a single, notably negative, review. This review paints a starkly different picture, claiming the purchased meat smelled "absolutely foul," and was of unacceptable quality, with brown discolouration and dried-out skins. The customer, having spent a significant $130, stated the meat was ultimately fed to the dog.
However, many other customers have fiercely defended Neil's Meats, arguing that the circumstances indicate possible mishandling after purchase, rather than a reflection of the shop’s usual standards. Arguments supporting this perspective include:
- Cryovacing & Freezer Bags: Neil’s Meats employs cryovacing to ensure freshness and offers complimentary freezer bags, indicating a proactive approach to preservation.
- Time Factor: One defender suggests the meat may have been left unrefrigerated for an extended period after leaving the shop, leading to deterioration.
- Holiday rush: The customer purchased the meat during a public holiday period when they couldn't source their usual butcher, implying an unusual circumstance.
It's important to acknowledge this contrasting viewpoint while considering the overwhelmingly positive feedback received by the vast majority of customers.
More Than Just a Butcher: The Heart of the Service
Beyond the expertly prepared meat, the heart of Neil’s Meats seems to lie in its exceptional customer service. Repeatedly, reviewers highlight the friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- "Service always friendly and with a smile..never rushed." - This sentiment is echoed throughout the reviews.
- Kate is singled out for her ability to “always makes me smile 😃”.
- Staff are described as having “heaps of knowledge of the butchery world”.
- Personalised service, like the pork belly preparation and associated advice, demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond for customers.
This dedication to personable and helpful interactions contributes greatly to the shop’s enduring appeal. It's this combination of high-quality meat and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere that makes Neil's Meats a treasured part of the South Yarra community.