Get Out and MEAT the Area!

It seems that no matter where you live you can easily get trapped on your own little island with the demands of day-to-day life. My husband and I have experienced this on many occasions and are always looking for ways to escape from time to time. We know we can’t always take a long weekend vacation when we want to, but we have found a way to enjoy some time “away” while not breaking a sweat or our bank account. “Staycation” is a popular phrase used a lot these days, the pandemic has forced us to look inward in a way we never had too before. Among many things, we truly enjoy exploring and grilling, these rank high on our list, so what better thing to do then combine the two? We have found taking small day trips to butchers and meat markets in the area just far enough away to feel as if we did something new and exciting, but close enough to get home in time to grill the spoils of our adventure.  

Now I am in no way saying the locations I am about to bring to you are the best, they are among our favorites and we know everyone has their favorite, but I will say that these locations have done two things for us. First, brought a smile to our faces as we cruised back country roads and second, amazing home cooked meals enjoying family time in our home. In these trying times we couldn’t be happier than that. Well, maybe a good bottle of red wine to go with our steaks.       

The Left Bank Butchery,  https://leftbankbutchery.com, (1729 Saxapahaw Bethlehem Church Rd, Saxapahaw, NC 27340), is located along the picturesque Haw River and states on their website “we are the only whole butchery and charcuterie shop in the Triangle”. We can attest that what you will get there is a great customer experience and selection of meats that will meet any one’s expectations. Not only do they offer amazing cuts available on the spot, but they can also fill custom orders to your desire. Not to mention they source local, which we love supporting. There is also a great little brewery that shares the same building they are located in that can be enjoyed. It’s worth the trip to walk around, see what they offer and enjoy some sunshine.  

Kenyons Meat Market, https://www.facebook.com/KenyonsMeatMarket/, (1915 NC Hwy 119, Mebane, NC 27302), is in contrast just a great place to go for good quality meats at a great price, this is our go to place for Filet Mignon as this has become the go to cut for everyone in our household. We have yet to be disappointed by their selection and quality, we also enjoy having our little spot we can always rely on. If you are looking for a no-nonsense local meat market this is your go to place. That, and it is a little escape from wherever your little island may be located. We find that avoiding the major roads in the area has made these excursions all the more enjoyable. Great staff and always friendly!

Steve’s Garden Market & Butchery, https://www.stevesgardenmarket.com, (610 N. Churton St, Hillsborough, NC 27278). Okay, now I may be a little biased, this was the first butcher we found when we moved here, that being said we have always enjoyed Steve’s. We find that this is our spot for pre-marinated fajita meats, sandwiches, and desserts. Not only that but this is the end point of any time we want to stroll the beautiful town of Hillsborough. Small, quaint, and historic, it offers more than what is immediately evident. North Carolina has always been beautiful and filled with pockets of wonderment, as we explore more and more that has yet to cease.      

The Butchers Market, https://www.thebutchersmarkets.com, (1225 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511). This location offers many options that you have to go more than once, be it fresh beef, exotic options, or our favorite is their selection of marinated meats. We love to take some time and go peruse the aisles and meat counters, but do not forget the freezer there you will find many hard-to-find options. After we have made our selections, we make a point to head next door to the wine store to complement our choice for the day. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed!

Adventure and home cooked meals is one of our favorite family activities, no matter where you live, be it Wake Forest, Durham, or Hillsborough there are plenty to be enjoyed at your fingertips.  I encourage you all to get out there and begin exploring your backyard, you will be amazed what you will find!

Sallie Salvador

Buyer Specialist

919.739.4399