Cumbrae's — Local services in Toronto

I would give a 5-star rating based on past visits but my visit yesterday was about 1-star. It started with a really surly young woman - I get it, people have bad days, but at least try to be pleasant. She was clearly annoyed when I asked if a steak they had there in marinade was suitable for sous vide cooking. I got all but an eyeroll. In bored irritation, she got the attention of a male staff passing by who was considerably friendlier, but had no idea about sous vide. He asked how long I sous vided a regular steak and when I said 1 hour, he suggested I sous vide the marinated one 30 minutes! I know that's wrong and asked if maybe the steak was a tougher cut - hence the marinade - and should be cooked 4 hours but he had no idea. I decided to buy it anyway and the female staff member couldn't cash me out fast enough. She didn't offer to put it in a sealed sous vide bag, though earlier she had said they offered that service. I still am not sure what cut I have because it isn't printed on the label. I suspect hanger steak but I'm not sure.

My point is, I will pay specialty store prices (this one was $25) for quality meat but I expect some knowledge from the staff. It's a butcher shop and they don't know about sous vide? In the past I have bought really great beef tenderloin and cowboy steaks here and one day I may go back there but for now I will stick with the Healthy Butcher where the staff are far nicer...

Cumbrae's is more than just a butcher shop; it's an experience. The store is beautifully designed, with sleek counters showcasing the most exquisite cuts of meat.

The star of the show, of course, is the meat. Cumbrae's offers an impressive selection of aged meats, each more mouthwatering than the last. The beef is particularly noteworthy, with perfectly marbled steaks that practically melt in your mouth. And let's not forget the sausages – a flavour explosion in every bite.

But Cumbrae's is more than just about the meat. They also offer a fantastic selection of sauces, stocks, and prepared foods, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to offer advice on the best cuts and cooking techniques.

While Cumbrae's may be a bit on the pricier side, the quality of the products and the overall experience make it well worth the investment. If you're looking for the finest meats and creating an unforgettable dining experience for your self, family or special someone, Cumbrae's is the place to go.

While Cumbrae's may be a bit of an indulgence, the quality of their products and the exceptional service they provide make it well worth the price. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the art of meat, and every visit is a...

It is easy to agree that any great culinary feat starts with the best ingredients. Cumbrae's certainly measures up.

A fine selection of locally sourced meats, prepared raw in all the standard cuts, or processed and marinated to perfection for immediate enjoyment.

For that one-of-a-kind experience, Cumbrae's has what may be the largest selection of dry-aged meats, sure to impress your most demanding guests.

Top it all off with a wide selection of fine cheeses, spreads, and marinate products, you are off to a great start.

My favourites are the hot Italian sausages, and the succulent roasted chicken, although you will just have to try it all out for yourself.

The store is staffed with a large number of new hires, apparently still learning the ropes. I have noticed a steady drop in wait times, and improved behaviours behind the counter, so things are looking up. The end result is well worth the patience.

Prices are high, but quality is certainly the best I have seen in Toronto so far. You get what you pay...