Pros 
Cons 's response:
A Yarraville Institution: Decades of Quality and Tradition
Andrew's of Yarraville isn't just a butcher shop; it’s a Yarraville institution. Boasting a remarkable 4.7-star rating and a loyal customer base spanning over 25 years (and likely much longer!), it’s clear this establishment has earned its reputation. Many patrons have made Andrew's their "go-to" place for premium meats and small goods, consistently praising the quality and value for money. While acknowledging it isn't the cheapest option – a fair trade-off for the premium ingredients – the shop stands out for its friendly and welcoming staff, a detail that makes a tangible difference in the overall experience. The shop is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Remember, as one reviewer wisely notes, "Get in early to see the full range they have to offer, they are pretty popular!"
Here's a breakdown of what makes Andrew's a long-standing favourite:
- Quality Focus: Andrew's prioritises quality, offering free-range and organic options.
- Longevity: A testament to consistent quality – customers return year after year.
- Value for Money: Premium quality justifies the price point compared to standard supermarket offerings.
- Exceptional Staff: Consistently highlighted as being particularly helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable.
- Accessibility: The shop boasts wheelchair accessibility and is geared towards quick visits, making it convenient for all customers.
- Payment Options: Accepts credit cards, debit cards and NFC mobile payments.
A Sausage Lover’s Paradise & Beyond
One recurring theme in reviews is Andrew’s exceptional sausage selection. Many describe it as “second to none,” with a particular reverence for the gourmet, preservative-free varieties. Forget regular sausages – this is where discerning sausage enthusiasts head. Consider this mouthwatering list devoured by one raving fan:
| Sausage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| German Weisswurst | A classic, though recent comments note shifts in flavour |
| Bratwurst | A traditional German favourite. |
| Polish Kransky | Robust and flavorful. |
| Greek Horiatiko | Rustic and herby. |
| Lamb & Feta Sausage | A delicious combination of lamb, feta, and garlic. |
| Italian Fennel & Pork | Aromatic and savoury. |
Beyond sausages, Andrew’s provides a surprisingly diverse range of premium cuts: butterflied lamb legs, pork cutlets, free-range chicken, and beef ribs (often available pre-marinated, like the popular plum sauce variety). It appears Andrew himself provides expert advice - this is invaluable for customers unsure about cuts, cooking times or what complementary sides to serve. The expertise extends further into a well-stocked deli section, complete with European delicacies, a tempting selection of cheeses, and free-range eggs. As one customer eloquently puts it, it’s a place to "feast like a king."
Mixed Reviews: Maintaining High Standards
While overwhelmingly positive, a few recent reviews highlight a possible decline in certain product qualities. Some customers have observed:
- Weisswurst Concerns: A few reviewers noted the Weisswurst has become "tasteless and watery," a stark contrast to its previous reputation.
- Sausage Texture: Issues with the texture of chicken sausages (described as "mushy") and the presence of "hard gristle bits" in beef sausages have been raised, detracting from the premium experience.
- Kabana: This item is reported as still being of exceptional quality.
It's important to note that these criticisms are interspersed with a mountain of praise, and they do suggest a potential area for Andrew's to focus on to maintain its long-held standards. The fact that these issues are even noticed speaks volumes regarding the previously high expectations set by the shop.
A Trip Worth Making (Especially for the Cheese Kransky!)
Despite the minor concerns mentioned above, the overall sentiment remains incredibly positive. The sheer devotion of some customers is remarkable. One reviewer even travels from Epping (a significant distance) every fortnight just to purchase the famed Cheese Kransky, declaring it “Worth a special trip,” and describing it as “the best Cheese Kransky ever devised and made on Planet Earth.” This level of dedication highlights the exceptional quality of certain products, and the powerful impact that quality has on customer loyalty.
Finding Andrew’s of Yarraville is easy - it's located at 24 Anderson St, Yarraville VIC 3013, AU. You can reach them by phone at +61 3 9687 2419. It’s a reminder that investing in quality ingredients, even if it means adjusting your weekly grocery habits and practicing mindful consumption (as one customer suggested), can lead to a truly rewarding culinary experience.