Meat & Essentials - San Marino, California

Cherrie Wang

Meat & Essentials is the local community butcher shop I have ALWAYS wanted. Eagle and Mel are so gracious and personable, patient with every question and enthusiastic in all your meat and culinary endeavors. It goes without saying, but the quality of meat is outstanding, far superior to anything you could pick up at a chain supermarket. Whether it is sausage or cuts of meat or roast beef/ham— everything is top notch.
On top of that they also have a revolving door of other surprises in their inventory, such as jun, house made pickles and sides, lu rou fan … plus much more. It is always a delight to step in and check out what’s brewing. Their sandwiches are amazing too!

Nisa ms Kreuzer

Great store for quality pasture raised meat. Minimal gluten-free options. Is coffee house atmosphere.

Ryan Stenvick

A fantastic experience all around. Nice selection of curated food items. I was most impressed by their consciously sourced beef, poultry and pork. And…they make their own sausage!

James Choe

We love this small gem. Their specialty goods are eclectic and always fun to browse, but we typically come here for a quick sandwich, coffee, or Japanese beers (sold as singles). The panini comes hot off the press in all its cheesy glory-it’s very tasty. The owner is cordial and always gives our dog a little slice of meat. Would definitely recommend this place for anyone looking for meats ready to grab or looking for something fun to try.

Pierce Powers

I just finished eating the best lamb sandwich I’ve ever put in my mouth. And I always order a lamb sandwich when it’s on the menu (unless I’m not eating meat that day). I’m really critical of restaurants, I eat out a lot, and I only review the best. My son says the sandwich w salami and French butter is amazing. I don’t eat pork so I didn’t try it but could only imagine. And the pastel de nada taste like one bought in Portugal. Thanks I’ll be back.

Christine S

Such a welcome addition to San Marino! This quaint store has amazing products, meat, coffee, and sandwiches. The dirty chai was fantastic and went great with the almond croissant.

Their sandwich menu changes frequently. I ordered the steak panini and ham baguette - both were amazing. You can tell the ingredients used (from the cheddar to the pickles) were of great quality.

I also loved browsing the grocery section. They have great products like fresh nuts (direct from the farm), Rancho Gordo beans, and all sorts of delights for your culinary needs.

Emily Wu

Do you like good food? Do you like good coffee? Do you like meat and/or also non-meat things? Do you like awesome people? Do you like supporting local small businesses? Would you like to meet my dog's favorite person? Do you like going to soulless places? If you said yes to any of the above questions except for the last one, then you should come here.

DaniElle DeLaite

I had the pleasure of meeting co-owners Mel and Eagle, and let me tell you, they're the real deal when it comes to their passion for quality food, coffee, and meat! Their personal connection with the coffee bean roaster ensures an unparalleled level of skill and quality that you can taste in every sip. I can't wait to return to explore more of their meat selection and even place a custom order. I can't say enough good things about this shop. Here's to wishing them continued success and gratitude for being part of our community.