Pros 
Cons A Look at The Ridge Meats: What Customers Are Saying
The Ridge Meats, located at 8/445/447 Hume St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350, is a butcher shop serving the Toowoomba community. With a rating of 3.4 out of 5, it’s clear that experiences vary. The shop operates with convenient hours, open Monday to Friday from 7 AM to 6 PM, and Saturdays from 7 AM to 3 PM. Sundays are closed. For those seeking convenience, The Ridge Meats offers delivery, in-store pickup, and onsite services. Accessibility is also a priority, boasting both wheelchair accessible entrances and parking. Payment options include debit and credit cards. Let's delve into the specifics of what customers are sharing about their experiences.
High Praise for Quality and Service – Special Occasions Shine
Several reviews highlight exceptional quality and personalised service, particularly when it comes to catering for special events. One customer recounts a truly positive experience ordering roasts for their wife’s 60th birthday party at Top Camp. The order was precisely as requested, readily available, and cooked to perfection. The customer specifically praised the staff, and Ally in particular, for their attention to detail. This anecdote paints a picture of a butcher shop willing to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction, especially for significant celebrations.
"I ordered rump, pork and lamb roasts for my wife's 60th birthday party at Top Camp (south Toowoomba) in January 19. The order was available as arranged, was exactly as I had specified and cooked beautifully. Guests were gushing about the quality of the meat and I sheeted all credit home to The Ridge Meats. Top marks to the guys and to Ally for their personalised attention. Could not have been happier."
This level of service isn't just about the meat itself; it's about the entire experience and the peace of mind knowing a special occasion is in capable hands. Other customers have echoed this sentiment, praising the shop's ability to deliver consistently high-quality roasts and cuts. The emphasis on personalised attention suggests a team dedicated to understanding and meeting individual customer needs.
Concerns Regarding Food Safety and Pricing
While many customers rave about the quality of The Ridge Meats' offerings, a significant concern has been raised regarding potential food safety issues. One reviewer reported experiencing gastrointestinal distress after consuming beef pastry parcels purchased from the shop. They stated they were a non-regular customer, having visited due to meat shortages at Woolworths following a cyclone. The reviewer stressed the seriousness of their claim, emphasizing they don't typically leave reviews lightly. This is a serious allegation and warrants careful consideration.
Beyond the food safety concern, pricing also appears to be a point of contention for some. One customer noted that the price of rump steak ($45/kg) was considerably higher than comparable quality meat available in Melbourne ($19/kg). They expressed a feeling that Toowoomba prices were "overrated."
Here's a quick comparison table to illustrate the price difference:
| Location | Rump Steak Price |
|---|---|
| The Ridge Meats (Toowoomba) | $45.00/kg |
| Melbourne | $19.00/kg |
This price disparity highlights a potential challenge for The Ridge Meats – justifying its pricing in comparison to other markets.
The Good, The Great, and the Sausages!
Despite the concerns mentioned above, a significant portion of customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the shop's sausages and general meat quality. One enthusiastic customer declared, "Omg! The best sausages and meat we’ve bought! Happy kids and happy Mumma! Never had such good meat!!" This sentiment is echoed by others who describe the meat as "tasty" and the service as "excellent." The shop clearly excels in providing a delightful experience for those seeking high-quality sausages and a generally positive butcher shop experience.
Here's a summary of the positive aspects frequently mentioned:
- Exceptional Sausages: Repeatedly praised as the best the customers have ever had.
- High-Quality Meat: Consistently described as "tasty" and of excellent quality.
- Excellent Service: Friendly and helpful staff, particularly when dealing with special orders.
- Convenient Options: Delivery, in-store pickup, and accessible facilities cater to a wide range of needs.
- Reliable for Special Events: A trusted choice for providing quality meat for celebrations.
The Ridge Meats presents a mixed picture. While the concerns regarding food safety and pricing are serious and require attention, the shop's dedication to quality, personalised service, and exceptional sausages clearly resonate with many customers. The phone number, +61 7 4602 0815, can be used to contact the shop directly.