Wife's family is from the Joplin/Springfield MO area, so we have to go up there regularly. Years ago, needing stuff to take to a family event and being from Dallas, we stumbled upon a little hole in the wall place called Hatfield's Smoked Meats. Bought the charcuterie stuff we needed and also noticed that the prices on the meats were insanely low compared to what we were used to in Dallas (typically bought meat at Central Market). Like 1/4 to a 1/3. Beef tenderloins were like 10/pound. Bacon wrapped filets 10/lb. Has since skyrocketed to may 13. They also have great smoked meats and sausages and such.

It has become a thing for us to stock up when we go up and even have my FiL pick up stuff when he comes down. They have said they would ship to us, haven't tried that, but figure that might eat too much into the price savings to be worth it.

Thought about it today because my Daughter (freshman at OU this year ) called to ask if Hatfield's shipped because she suddenly had an urge and would kill for some of their sausage.

It occurs to me that this little hole in the wall joint cannot be the only place like this around. But when I have searched locally in Dallas, all of the Butcher shops I find are the same pricing, or higher, than Central Market (which I suppose is my median comparison point - accessible, consistent, etc.) Hard to search for, because you wouldn't really expect this type of long time family run little place to have the best websites available.

Thought I would post and see if the Aggie network had go to places that might be reasonably close to Dallas, or other areas that they might want to share.

TIA

What grade is the meat they are selling? Are you comparing apples to apples?

Damn, I was hoping to find out what unicorn taste like when I saw the thread title.

Not positive on all of them, and, yes, I have considered the grades as far as comparing to Central Market. Honestly, I can tell a small difference on some of the cuts compared to when I might splurge on a higher grade that is on sale or something. Interestingly, to me at least, I like the beef tenderloin when I smoke it or even cook it in the oven, more than I like it when they are precut. Even though I know it is probably the same cut. For normal meals or grilling I generally don't care all that much on the grade.

My point was not really finding the absolute cheapest source of meat. More about finding hidden gems that might be options to grocery chains. That offer good products, maybe save a little money and support small businesses.

I love the steaks from Chappel Hill sausage company meat market in Chappell Hill Tx

I think they are usually a little cheaper than the grocery store and better quality

Problem I have is getting by there when they are open