International Meat Market Inc. — Local services in New York

A local butcher in Astoria that serves high standard quality meats.

Even though the place gets very packed quite often, people are very friendly here. I was once told by the butcher that they carry wagyu, though unconfirmed, so I am not sure if it was wagyu or washugyu (wagyu breed raised in the States).

I have tried their beefs, namely short ribs couple of times, wasn’t a big fan. Whole Foods’s, especially when from the Pineland’s, is tastier. What this place makes very worthwhile, is their lambs. Maybe because Astoria is a Greek town and demand for lambs are high? No clue, but I think their source (farm) is from upstate New York, and their lambs are extremely amazing. I wish I was born here in the States and could have described it in English better than just saying extremely amazing. People who think lambs are gamey, it will be their best interest to be open minded and try theirs. It’s lamb, but aroma / taste isn’t gamey. New Zealand lambs, leaves gamines while tasting & aftertaste. It’s a completely different experience.

When quality is high, I like fattier cuts. For their lambs, try lamb ribs over chops / loins. Imagine thick cut pork bacon with a wonderful aroma and taste. Put in the oven for 40 mins ish at 375 degrees, use the grease to bake something (potatoes will soak up the fats very well), then leave another 15 minutes or so. You will thank the sacrificed animal.

If by the Astoria standard, I got to rate this place 5 out of 5. I am giving 4 out of 5, only because there are higher quality butchers in the City, but even in comparison to those, their lambs...

Probably the best butcher meat market in Astoria. Located on 30th Avenue, between 30th Ave station (N and W yellow lines) and Steinway. Not so spacious though, but selection of meats is outstanding. And they are all hardworking people, it's not an easy job to deal with all of customers and their demands. Lamb, beef, chicken, pork, rabbit, quail, duck, sausages, pork and chicken kebabs ($1.5 each and that's a steal!)...just name it they have it. You can also order in advance. Additionaly, they carry some other groceries, such as condiments, spices, dry pasta, juices, sweets, pickled vegetables, and many other mostly Balkan food. The waiting time is the only downside of this butcher shop, but the good meat is worth waiting. Prices are quite fair, however some items are ridiculously high in price (lamb chops $38/lb!!!). And don't forget to grab a number upon arrival! Overall, nice experience, I like to visit this place. Both cash and cards accepted. No restrooms on premises, but they have a cute bench inside if you need to take a break from...

John, as proprietor, takes great pride and care in his business. He has a wonderful team who take meticulous and expert care of your order from start to finish with grace and a smile. I have never been disappointed and my dinners have been scrumptious. The roast lamb has always been the star of my table. Never gamey and always tender. Great shish kebabs for outdoor or indoor grilling. Excellent lamb chops. You cannot go wrong with anything. It is important to follow their instructions for roasting to your liking. I am looking forward to making the top sirloin roast for Christmas dinner. Please be patient if you are waiting. It is well worth the wait. Update: Greek Easter 2021 Roast Lamb...