Pros 
Cons )
A Mixed Grill of Opinions: What Customers Are Saying About Al-Rabih Butchery
Al-Rabih Butchery Pty Ltd, nestled on the Hume Highway in Yagoona, has cultivated a loyal following with its diverse selection of meats, competitive prices, and generally friendly service. Boasting a 3.9-star rating, the butchery undoubtedly possesses qualities that keep customers returning, but not without a few caveats. A quick glance at online reviews paints a picture of a somewhat contradictory experience – high praise punctuated by significant concerns. Let's take a closer look.
The cornerstone of Al-Rabih Butchery's appeal seems to be its range and quality, particularly for those seeking Halal meats. Several reviewers specifically highlight this as a major draw. Beyond the Halal offerings, they offer a surprising breadth of cuts and proteins, including premium options like Wagyu. The impressive variety doesn’t stop there, with mentions of sheep brains and lamb chop skewers adding a unique touch to their inventory. A recurring theme across positive feedback revolves around the freshness of the meat and the helpfulness of the staff—specifically calling out a "lovely young lady" named Lara as being particularly professional and efficient. Here's a breakdown of what customers often praise:
- Wagyu Selection: A significant point of pride, with one reviewer showcasing a beautifully cut Yakiniku style Wagyu skirt steak. This demonstrates the butchery's ability to cater to specific culinary needs and preferences.
- Halal Meats: A mainstay and a major reason for repeat business for many customers.
- Price Point: Multiple mentions of "great prices" and "very good price" are common, particularly relating to their lamb.
- Staff Interaction: The friendliness of the butchers, especially the two regularly cited as “super friendly,” is consistently noted.
- Unique Options: Availability of less common cuts like sheep brains evokes a sense of traditional and authentic stock.
The Card Fee Controversy and Billing Concerns
While the quality of the meat and friendly service are often celebrated, a major recurring issue is the surprisingly high fee levied for card transactions. This has become a significant point of contention for many customers. Several reviewers recount experiences where they were unaware of the fee until seeing the higher charge on their bank statement. One customer recounts being charged an extra $7.90 on a $22 purchase – a stark reminder to be vigilant!
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the payment-related concerns:
| Issue | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Card Fee | A substantial fee is applied for all card transactions, often catching customers off guard. Amount varies but is considered excessive. | Dissatisfaction, potential financial loss |
| Billing Errors | Frequent reports of incorrect billing and overcharging require customers to carefully review receipts before leaving the store. | Inconvenience, distrust |
| Payment Options | Although the butchery lists NFC mobile payments in their facilities, reviews note the charge applies regardless of the payment method. | Disappointment |
The responses from staff to these billing disputes haven’t always been reassuring, with one reviewer reporting a dismissive attitude from the staff member. The overwhelming advice circulating among customers is clear: bring cash. This unusual requirement in the modern era creates a significant barrier to convenience and warrants serious consideration by Al-Rabih Butchery.
Quality Control and Consistency – A Matter of Concern
Although many highlight the fresh quality of Al-Rabih Butchery’s meat, concerning reports of inconsistent quality have surfaced. Several customers have described experiencing negative reactions after consumption, which raises red flags.
Specifically, two reviewers reported issues:
- Chemical Taste: One customer purchased four steaks, two of which exhibited a distinct "chemical taste" after cooking. Experiencing a concerning effect afterwards and needing antibiotics.
- Stale Meat: Another customer complained of a "stale" taste in some of the purchased meat.
These accounts, while limited, suggest a potential problem with quality control or storage that needs addressing. The impact on customer health and trust is significant. Such experiences can leave a lasting negative impression, as one disgruntled customer stated they would "never buy meat from here again." Consistency in quality is paramount for any butcher shop, and the lack thereof in these cases is concerning.
Contact Details and Practical Information
For those considering a visit to Al-Rabih Butchery Pty Ltd, here’s a summary of key information:
- Address: 453 Hume Hwy, Yagoona NSW 2199, Australia
- Phone: +61 450 200 650
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Services: Curbside pickup and in-store shopping available. Quick visits are easily accommodated.
- Payment Options: Cash preferred. Credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments are technically accepted, but come with a significant surcharge, effectively making cash the most financially sensible option.
It's clear that Al-Rabih Butchery offers tempting options for meat lovers, especially those seeking Halal or Wagyu selections. However, potential customers should be fully aware of the card fee policy and exercise caution regarding potential inconsistencies in meat quality.