Pros 
Cons A Legacy of Quality and a Storied History
George's Meats, nestled within Preston Market at W191, 2/30A The Centreway, Preston VIC 3072, isn't just a butcher shop; it’s a Preston institution. For half a century, customers have been flocking to George's, initially drawn by the expertise of Andy, George's father, and now loyally following George himself. The shop’s longevity speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and the enduring charm of a traditional butcher. Heather and Barry, long-time patrons hailing from Canterbury (previously Eltham!), encapsulate this sentiment perfectly: they wouldn’t buy their meat anywhere else. This dedication stems not solely from the meat itself, but also from the personal connection – the conversations, the banter, and the feeling of being a valued customer. Reading testimonials, it’s clear this personable touch has been a key ingredient in George's Meats’ success.
The shop operates with a unique rhythm, closed on Mondays and Sundays for a well-deserved break, and adhering to slightly different hours throughout the week:
| Day | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Friday | 8 AM – 6 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM – 3 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM – 3 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM – 3 PM |
This schedule suggests a focus on weekend trading when market activity is at its peak. While the absence of familiar faces like Thuy, Lyn and Jacinta has been felt by some, the core commitment to delivering top-tier meat remains.
The Good: A Chorus of Praise and Premium Products
The overwhelming majority of feedback paints a glowing picture of George's Meats. Many customers consistently commend the quality of the meat, repeatedly using phrases like "A1," "five-star," and "the best you can buy." This quality extends beyond the standard cuts; several reviews highlight the shop’s ability to cater to niche dietary needs.
Here's a breakdown of what patrons love:
- Exceptional Quality: Consistently praised, the meat receives widespread acclaim for its freshness and flavour.
- Expertise & Helpfulness: George and his team are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to assist customers. This translates to recommendations, advice on cuts, and a willingness to go the extra mile.
- Custom Options: The ability to request custom minces, particularly the rump mince mentioned by one customer, is a significant draw.
- Specialty Meats: The availability of fresh organ meats caters to specific dietary trends like carnivore, keto, and paleo. This niche offering sets George's Meats apart.
- Value for Money: Despite the premium quality, several reviewers feel the prices are great, particularly considering the market location.
- Dedicated Following: Patrons are willing to travel significant distances, with one customer driving from Sunbury simply for George’s meat, proving the loyalty and perceived value.
- Catering for Pets: George’s willingness to provide quality meat for pampered pooches is a surprisingly charming detail that resonates with pet owners.
"I've sampled many suppliers at Preston Market and I reckon George is the best.” - Anonymous Reviewer
Areas for Improvement: Addressing Concerns & Inconsistent Cuts
While the overwhelming sentiment is positive, recent reviews do point to concerning inconsistencies and quality control issues. A significant number of complaints centre around the consistency of cuts, specifically chump chops and schnitzel.
Here’s a summary of the criticisms:
- Inconsistent Chump Chops: A customer reported receiving a batch of chump chops with a high proportion of bone and fat, describing the majority as "crap."
- Poor Schnitzel Quality: The schnitzel was described as "shredded meat," lacking the structural integrity and quality expected.
- Spoiled Lamb Chops: A particularly concerning review detailed inedible lamb chops that were "brown and smelt off," raising serious questions about storage and quality control. This represents a significant risk to customer trust and potentially their health.
- Missing Personal Touch: The absence of familiar staff members (Thuy, Lyn, Jacinta) has left some long-time customers feeling less valued, highlighting the importance of these personality-driven interactions, even beyond just the meat itself.
These issues, while not widespread, are certainly noteworthy and suggest a need for more rigorous quality checks and potentially a review of supplier relationships.
Accessibility, Payments & Ongoing Support
George’s Meats proactively makes certain aspects of the customer experience convenient. The shop boasts wheelchair accessible parking, acknowledging inclusivity and ease of access. Accepting various payment methods – Credit cards, Debit cards and NFC mobile payments – ensures a seamless transaction process. Currently, they do not accept credit cards however, which may be a potential limitation for some customers.
Beyond the operational details, the outpouring of well-wishes for George’s health demonstrates the depth of affection the community has for him and his shop. The sentiments shared by Heather and Barry, and numerous others, highlight the personal connection that defines George's Meats.
The shop's phone number, +61 3 9478 8215, is readily available for inquiries, demonstrating a commitment to customer communication, even as the shop adapts to staff changes and challenges. Maintaining the core values of quality, helpfulness, and community connection will be paramount as George's Meats navigates this phase.