Butcher shops are making a comeback, reviving their craft all across the country. Having access to a butcher shop means you have a very knowledgeable person behind the counter, but many people find it to be a very intimidating experience.

And even though all that beautiful meat behind glass is calling your name, it can feel super awkward to walk all the way up to that tall counter and start a conversation with a man who seems pretty darn unapproachable. And on top of it, he’s wielding a knife! Truth be told, good butchers are actually nice guys who want to help. 

Here are five tips I find helpful for new butcher-shop customers. 

1. He needs you, too.

Remember the butcher needs you to have a good experience with the meat you purchase. He wants you to return again and again for more; as a potential lifetime customer, you are quite valuable. If you purchase something that’s a big, expensive fail, he knows you’re likely to never set foot in his butcher shop again. If that happens, everybody loses!

2. Give him the 411.

Make sure you let your butcher ask questions. If he’s smart, he’ll try to gather as much information from you as he can, wanting to ensure you are successful.  Be prepared for questions like

• “Do you want to eat beef, pork, lamb or poultry?”
• “Are you looking for meat that is boneless, or bone-in?”
• “What’s your budget?”
• “How are you planning to cook this meat? Will it be grilled, roasted, braised, or pan-fried?”
• “What about flavor? Do you want a big meaty flavor or something on the milder side?”
• “What time is your dinner party again? And how many people are coming?"

3. Ask your questions.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and turn the tables – you should ask questions, too! A good butcher is a valuable resource for reliable information. If you’re afraid you’re going to get nervous and forget something when you get to the meat counter, write your questions down in advance. (As with anything else, the only dumb question at the butcher shop will be the one you don’t ask!)

4. Keep an open mind. 

Your butcher works his craft all day long and chances are he knows a thing or two about how to cook what you’re looking to purchase, so be willing to listen to him. He’s also familiar with many great cuts of meat that are often more flavorful and economical than the usual cuts we always have a tendency to purchase.  Trust him enough to let him make a meat recommendation for your recipe. 

5. Provide feedback.

Be willing to give your butcher feedback on your cooking experience with his product; this expands his horizons. He should want to hear how you prepared the steaks you bought last time and what your ideas are for the tri-tip roast he sees you contemplating.  And, if you’ve had a bad experience, share this with him, giving him the opportunity to hear what happened. This can go a long way in helping make your next purchase more successful.