Fosters Meats

I went to the West Side Market on a Saturday morning. Yea, I know. I don't really know what I was thinking either. It was a chaotic, glorious mess of old and young Clevelanders bustling around grabbing local goodies. You couldn't walk 2 steps without accidentally tripping on a stroller. Let's just say it wasn't the environment for the easiest shopping trip.I guess what I'm trying to say is that on days like that, you aren't expecting the best customer service from a swamped merchant at the market. But in a lucky twist of fate, Fosters Meats came through with the perfect amount of helpfulness, knowledge and patience. Hallelujah! Jason, Kelton and I stopped by the WSM for a roast and some fresh bread. We didn't think it would take long so we scooped up the first 15 minute parking spot we could find. The first steps we took inside I was thinking we might want to move the car--with this crowd we were going no where fast!We didn't move the car, but we did start to make our way through the crowd until we spotted the first meat counter, Fosters. We were immediately noticed and asked if we needed help! Wow. So, Jason quickly explained what we were looking to cook and how many we were serving hoping to get some guidance on what to purchase. The Foster's employee cut us the perfect portion of beef at the right price and it turned out delicious! He even worked with the credit card minimum to make sure we were happy campers and got us out in time to move our car!Polite, quick, efficient, helpful and actually smiling! Yes, I as surprised too! I mean, if I were working on a busy Saturday at the West Side Market, I'd be one crabby broad. I could learn a lesson or two from the Fosters folks, that's for sure.

Right down from my other favorite vendor (Dohar's) is Fosters. First let me say... when they were closed after the January, 2013 fire, I was despondant. There just is no better liver available anywhere else within the WSM. Trust me, I've tried them all. Foster's has tender, fresh liver which is just a joy.I also rely on them for my annual rib roast for Christmas. Oh good gracious... it is just jaw droppingly beautiful and tender. These guys are friendly and so very helpful. Even with a busy Saturday crowd, they are on their game, and quick. I'm so glad they are back in business finally! I missed them very much!

I have come here for YEARS and I guess I've just gotten used to fabulous meats, helpfulness even on packed Saturday's and "thank you's" - today was even better! Beautifully marbled beef short ribs, a gorgeous round roast, some ground lamb and a discussion about Denver cuts - all with the nicest crew in the market! Thank you as always guys!

Service was friendly and the ground Chuck was fairly priced. Flavor was so much better than store bough. We will be back!!

They have (in season) Cajun pepper jack burger patties. These are hands-down, the best burgers I have ever eaten; they're better than any restaurant burger or hand-made patties. I wish I had more adjectives besides incredible, delicious and mouth-watering to use because I don't think those words do justice in describing how good these are.

Two things need saying. 1. Lamb. 2. Goat. Sure, maybe not your favorites, but if you're looking for quality -- well, when I started buying from them a few years ago, I haven't bought lamb or goat elsewhere. NOT THE CHEAPEST, but you're paying for excellent meat! Courteous, friendly, but go either on Monday or Wednesday to avoid the weekend strangulation most people think of when they think of the WSM.