Southern Craft Butchers is a one of a kind experience. They are located in Raleigh where Mark, the owner and chief operator, grew up. Mark was formally trained as a butcher at Fleisher’s in Brooklyn, NY. Southern Craft carries many influences you find in traditional New York butchers market and also puts it’s own unique spin. At the time of our visit, the shop had been open just over a year. Southern Craft is dedicated to using the entire animal before they move on to the next one. Mark’s expertise showed as he brought out many of his favorite cuts to give Feasts and Spirits a behind the scenes look. The passion in his work shown through and Mark was proud to let us know he is the only true butcher in the Raleigh area. He also partners with many local farms and small businesses which we love, being a small local farm ourselves. Mark was in the process of putting together some ideas around home meat plans and also some catering options now that he had obtained his USDA label.
We were fortunate to try some items out of the deli. Deli items are served on butcher paper giving an authentic feel as a butcher’s shop. We tried the Pimento Cheese Burger which was out of this world. We’ve had many great burgers throughout our food adventures, but this one still stands out as a true favorite. The burger grind was composed of ground brisket, candied banana peppers, roasted garlic aioli, a thick grilled onion and house smoked bacon. I personally challenge any other burger places out there to top this burger! The pimento cheese is his father’s recipe and we give him major points for using family recipes. As a side we also had the Amazing Broccoli salad which was his grandma’s recipe. The amazing description in its name did not do it justice. This also blew us away. We also had the roast beef and baby swiss sandwich which was amazing. Mark told us the key to a good sandwich is a having bread with a crispy outside and softer interior which keeps the bread from getting soggy. He won’t get any arguments from us.
Southern Craft is so much more than a butcher’s shop. They have an amazing deli and small menu grill featuring their great quality meats, many incredible southern sides, and so much more.
Mark’s southern hospitality showed through our entire visit. His southern upbringing was not a surprise and was also reflected by repeat customers whom Mark exchanged pleasantries with throughout the visit. His family in the area is very supportive and we had the opportunity to meet his grandmother. Southern hospitality comes naturally to Mark and his willingness to try new concepts and ideas with great cuts of meat set him apart from many area restaurants. If you haven’t had the opportunity to check his spot out, I would highly recommend it.
Thanks for the great hospitality and food! We can’t wait for our next chance to come back again.