Proper Meats + Provisions, the butcher shop slated to open in Downtown Tucson in the fall of 2014, will launch in Flagstaff in August.
In a world where smartphones, electronic cigarettes, and Vibram Five Fingers are commonplace, it sure is refreshing to see classic practices making a comeback. Polaroid film, vinyl records, and the Trapper Keeper have all found themselves in a resurgence of interest and now, thankfully, the classic neighborhood butcher shop returns.
Proper owner, Paul Moir, along with his wife Laura, and executive chef, David Smith plan to open Proper Meats + Provisions as, “a return to the artfulness of butchery and carefully curated products not commonly found on big-box grocery store shelves.”
Once complete, you’ll be able to find fresh artisan meats and charcuterie from local farms along with an inside look at whole-animal butchery. For those not in the know, it’s a style that uses the entire animal – organs (offal) and all. (For more information, see this article on Whole Animal Butchery). According to the press release, Proper Meats + Provisions will also offer local cheeses, breads, house made soups, sandwiches, and light entrees, although it’s unclear if these items will be available in the Tucson location. We’ll update this post when we know for sure.
In addition, all meat will be 100% Arizona raised and traceable to the meat’s original sources.
“We take more of a socially conscious approach with our meats, and take great pride in promoting the relationship between the meat raised in Arizona and the people who prepare it,” says Moir. “There’s something special and beautiful about knowing exactly where your meats came from and exactly who handled them. It increases your sense of appreciation for the animal.”
(Author’s note: If you can’t wait until the fall, check out The Old Time Butcher Shop in Green Valley. Years ago, the owner was more than willing to allow me to watch and learn how to break down a chicken, although, if I remember correctly, he had no idea why anyone would want to see it. Aside from a few trips back for their excellent house smoked trout, I haven’t made it back. As far as I know, they do not source locally.)
For more information about Proper Meats + Provisions, keep up with them on their website, www.propermeats.com.
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