Pros 
Cons A Dandenong Institution: The History & Value Proposition of Best Price Butcher & Seafood
Best Price Butcher & Seafood, located at 14 McCrae St, Dandenong, VIC 3175, has become a cornerstone of the Dandenong community over the years. Boasting a 3.9-star rating and a loyal following, this butcher shop has consistently attracted customers seeking both affordability and quality. For many, it's a destination—a deliberate trip out of their local area for exceptional value.
The core of Best Price Butcher & Seafood’s appeal lies in its name. It truly delivers on its promise of low prices, frequently cited as the cheapest place in Dandenong for meat and fish. Customers rave about the deals, particularly their brisket, which was famously priced as low as $5/kg just a year ago. While prices have understandably adjusted, they remain significantly more competitive than other butchers in the area, even beating out the normally low-cost options available in Springvale.
The diversification of offerings is also notable. Beyond the expected beef, lamb, and chicken, the shop boasts a wide variety of fish, both whole and cut. A particularly valued service is the ability to have whole fish cleaned and cut to a customer’s preference – a rarity these days. This variety, combined with the consistent affordability, explains why many customers, like one long-time patron who spent over $300 monthly, have made Best Price Butcher & Seafood a regular fixture in their shopping habits. The shop's accessibility – boasting wheelchair access and parking – and the quick visit-friendly layout further enhance the customer experience.
The Customer Experience: Praise & Recent Concerns
The reviews paint a complex picture of the customer experience at Best Price Butcher & Seafood. Historically, the service was a contributing factor to the shop’s success, with a specific older gentleman often going above and beyond to assist customers, even helping carry their purchases to their cars. This level of attentive service has left a strong impression on long-time patrons, reflecting a warmth and personal touch that's now seemingly diminished.
Recent feedback, however, reveals a concerning shift. Several customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the service, describing it as rude, unhelpful, and inflexible. One particularly poignant review details an experience where a request for a specific pork cut was met with rejection and negativity, leaving the customer embarrassed and ultimately choosing to shop elsewhere. This highlights a significant concern: the potential decline in customer service quality, a critical element that previously differentiated Best Price Butcher & Seafood.
Here's a summary outlining both the positives and negatives regarding customer service:
| Aspect | Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Service | Historically excellent, particularly with long-time staff. Helpful and attentive. | Recently described as rude, unhelpful, and inflexible. |
| Custom Cuts | Previously offered readily, providing a level of personalization. | Now often unavailable, fixed cuts are the standard. |
| Staff Attitude | Warm and welcoming in the past. | Increasingly negative and unaccommodating. |
Navigating the Practicalities: Cash, Crowds & Convenience
Shopping at Best Price Butcher & Seafood requires a little planning. The most consistently highlighted practical consideration is that the shop operates solely on a cash basis. While an ATM is conveniently located inside the premises, customers have pointed out that each transaction incurs a $1 fee, sparking debate about the legality and fairness of this practice. The accessibility of the ATM clearly aims to mitigate this issue, but the fee itself is viewed negatively by many.
The shop, particularly on weekends, is known to be busy. A token system is in place to manage the queues, indicating a high volume of customers drawn to the attractive prices. Parking, unfortunately, can be difficult and requires payment, adding another layer of potential inconvenience.
Here's a concise breakdown of the practical aspects:
- Payment: Cash only – ATM available inside (fee applies).
- Crowds: Expect high traffic, especially on weekends. Token system in place.
- Parking: Limited and paid parking.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking.
- Communication: Staff dialects may occasionally present communication challenges.
The Verdict: Value vs. Experience - Is It Still Worth It?
Best Price Butcher & Seafood presents a compelling paradox. The consistently affordable prices and wide selection of meat and seafood, particularly fish, are undeniably attractive. The option to have fish cleaned and cut is a significant draw. The shop has clearly built a strong reputation over the years, with many customers highlighting their loyalty and appreciation for the quality. Several reviewers emphasize the good service they've historically received, acting as testament to what the shop can be.
However, the recent concerns regarding customer service cannot be ignored. A decline in helpfulness and a rise in rude interactions threaten to erode the positive reputation the shop has worked so hard to build. While the ATM provides a solution for the cash-only policy, the associated fee remains a point of contention.
Ultimately, deciding whether Best Price Butcher & Seafood is "worth it" now hinges on individual priorities. For those primarily focused on finding the absolute cheapest meat and fish in Dandenong, and willing to navigate potential crowds and the fee for ATM use, it remains a solid option. However, for those who prioritise excellent customer service and a comfortable shopping experience, the recent reports suggest caution is advised. Perhaps the shop can put some effort into re-establishing a more customer centric environment and regain its standing as a truly beloved Dandenong institution.