The Meatery
1534 Fremont Blvd., Seaside (831) 656-8810, themeatery.us
The Meatery is not a large space. It’s possible, however, to spend hours gazing at the meat case. There’s USDA prime beef that chefs Jason Balestrieri and Kevin Hincks dry age in-house, pasture-raised pork, hand-made sausages, racks of lamb, game meats. Turn around and find pickles, sauces, lard. Pardon me, do they have any Grey Poupon? If they have mustard, it’s likely prepared there or by another artisan. And there’s a deli, as well (give their Reuben a try). Best of all, these guys are butchers as well as chefs. They focus on quality and will work with customers. When you finally leave, it won’t be empty-handed – and probably not empty-bellied, either.