‘Tis the season for partaking in delicious turkey, ham and charcuterie—so why not support local while you do it?
Whole Beast and The Village Butcher co-exist in the same location in Oak Bay, working together in harmony in a traditional European model—this means whole animals are sourced through The Village Butcher, (pork, lamb, chicken and beef), and cuts that are not sold over the counter get transferred to The Whole Beast to cure.
Both shops share the same address with access inside from one to the other—fresh meat is offered from The Village Butcher on one side, while cured meat is offered from The Whole Beast on the other.
To celebrate the giving season, we’ve partnered with these two incredible businesses to give away one turkey from The Village Butcher, as well as one whole bone-in ham from The Whole Beast—you’ll find those contest details below!
The Whole Beast
Whole Beast hams are made with Stillmeadow Farm pork legs cured and naturally smoked in house, and it’s recommended that they are ordered ahead of time, as they can sell out! You can pre-order yours by calling 250 590-PORK (7675).
All charcuterie sold at The Whole Beast is made by hand in-house using traditional European methods, and they feature over 40 house-made products on display.
They also carry a wide selection of pickles, crackers, olives and conservas to compliment charcuterie platters—popular items include: chicken liver parfait, salami of all kinds, garlic coil, prosciutto, pancetta (for brussel sprouts), bacon, duck liver terrine, and pastrami.
The Village Butcher
Looking for the perfect bird this holiday season? Village Butcher turkeys are free range, fresh and ethically-sourced from Skye Hi Farm in Chilliwack, BC. These birds are raised without hormones or antibiotics, and also need to be ordered ahead of time.
They also have boneless turkey rolls and half birds available, and offer pre-orders for roasts of all kinds, including: prime rib, crown roasts, rack of lamb, porchetta, and pork loin roasts. They are also taking pre-orders for their incredible house made Tourtiere!
In Europe, all butcher shops will have a meat curing program to reduce waste and increase whole animal utilization, which is what these two businesses base their model on.
Significance of the European model
- Quality and flavour, artisan methods, honest crafting
Whole animal butchery allows these businesses to utilize overlooked cuts and unique products made from them (salami, hams, sausages etc.)
- Sustainability, reduced waste, support of the local economy by purchasing from small ethically sound producers
Preserving these traditions connects The Whole Beast and Village Butcher to a rich cultural heritage, preserving valuable traditions and culinary skills
As a whole, the European model offers a more sustainable, ethical and flavorful approach to meat consumption, while also preserving valuable cultural traditions and promoting consumer education.
CONTEST
To enter to win one turkey from The Village Butcher OR one whole bone-in ham from The Whole Beast (each valued at approximately $130), click here to enter on our sister website, Victoria Buzz.
The Village Butcher
- Where: 2032 Oak Bay Avenue
- When: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sunday & Monday
The Whole Beast
- Where: 2032 Oak Bay Avenue
- When: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, closed Sunday & Monday
Both shops will offer special holiday hours, remaining open the entire week of December 18th to December 24th, with no Sunday-Monday closure that week!
