There are lots of articles on the best value cuts to buy. What I want to know is, which store is bringing the best value for a given cut? I’m based out of the south, so I’ve got lots of great options. walmart, publix, sam’s club, piggly wiggly, aldi. I know historically local butchers have been the place to get the deals. The butchers in my area seem quite expensive. I think they’re bringing custom orders to the table more than best value on a standard cut. So, in your opinion, which stores offer the best price:quality? Is there a particular grade, label, certification, or anything like that to watch out for?
I’ve heard good things about the US Foods Chef Store wholesale selection if you are willing to put in a little time looking at the beef.
How wholesale are we talking? I love me some steaks, but I only have so much freezer space.
You can buy the whole primal cut, usually.
You’re gonna want a second freezer lol
I already have one, they both fill up so fast. I don’t really have the money or space for another.
Probably going to be Costco.
Not sure if butchers in your area do them, but a tri-tip is one of the best value:money steaks around.
They can be a little lean in lower grades, but Costco had prime tri tips the other day 😋
Tri tip coated with Santa Maria style dry rub, grilled with indirect heat until almost done and finished over the coals to char. Sides of Pinquito beans, corn on the cob, and grilled bread dipped in garlic butter.
I sometimes add California Sagebrush (Artemesia californica, aka Cowboy cologne, not a true Sage but I digress) to the rub and it adds a nice dimension to the flavor. Just a suggestion, can have just as a steak.
If you’re buying small quantities, Aldi is probably your best bet.
That’s the thing… your local butcher may be more expensive, but the quality will be far, far higher.
For me, our local go-to choice is this:
Pricing here:
https://gartnerscurbsidepickup.smartonlineorder.com/
Find a place that’s family owned, and has been in business a long time. Yes, you’ll pay more, but it’s hard to go wrong with them.
It’s definitely higher quality, I’m just not sure about paying $25 a steak at my current income level. I was hoping to find the point of diminishing returns. Most every product category you can get 85% quality at 50% cost by finding that line.
