I was absolutely thrilled to discover Ray's last week when I had a night where I wanted a good meal and didn't want to put a lot of work into it. I was looking for some meat I could throw in a casserole dish in the oven and walk away from. It was too late to head to Bunzel's and another meat counter left me disappointed, so I pulled out my phone and some Yelping and Googling later found Ray's. Their meat counter/selection is huge. Just a true smorgasbord of options are available - I definitely paced in front of the case two or three times before settling on the the bacon wrapped pork I purchased. I added corn and potatoes and checked out at the register - then turned around and headed back for two bacon wrapped filets (at just $5.99 each!) to have for dinner on the grill a few nights later. It's definitely a butcher shop and not a grocery store - don't think you can one-stop shop here - they have some sides and the barest of veggies to help you put together a meal and the wine selection is pretty big, but this doesn't purport itself to be anything more than a place to procure meat. Both things I bought cooked up great - I feel like I found a new gateway to great dinners and I'm excited to go back and try more things. read more

Ray's Butcher Shop, home of "I can't." I am a big supporter of going to local institutions whenever I can, but Ray's will be a rare trip for me now. My last three experiences there (twice I have walked away with nothing) have been poor and all about what they are unable to do. First strike I needed a Leg of Lamb roast for Christmas eve. Only option that they were willing to provide, a full leg. No thanks. I went to Sendik's in Franklin and they were more than happy to accommodate me. In fact the butcher there invited me to return anytime and told me he could fill any request. Second Strike I was doing a recipe from Cooks Illustrated that called for Top Loin Steak. The butcher there had no clue what I was talking about. He suggested top sirloin steak instead. A better alternative would have been New York Strip. I expect an educated butcher at an establishment like this and to be able to recommend alternatives. Third Strike Tonight I am doing a slow cooker brisket for my family. I drove well out of my way to go to Ray's, since I forgot how unaccommodating they had been on the lamb and figured a three and a half pound brisket would be a reasonable request. Nope. They would sell me a 16 pound brisket or a 8 pound flap. They were completely unwilling to cut it. I have no extra space or desire to keep all this extra meat in my freezer. I went to Groppi's Food Market in Bay View instead. No problem what so ever. He checked the back to make sure he didn't already have an cut one and when he didn't went straight to the vac sealed package in the case and cut me off exactly what I wanted. I love how the website for Ray's claims "We are a full serviced meat market" but all I have received here is sub par service. I think that the crowds I see here prior to a holiday are used to sub par service, but I am done with it. They have joined my boycott list. Now for the pros. There is a large meat case here with fresh and smoked products. I have never had a quality issue with anything received from here. Alternatives Sendik's (equal prices) Groppi's (better prices) Whole Foods (They have the nickname "Whole Paycheck" for a reason) I am not very price sensitive when it comes to high quality meat and great customer service. It is unfortunate Ray's is well below what I am willing to accept. I would say the quality of the meat is above average, but I'm not driving out of the way for them. I might not even stop if they were on the way. read more

If you want to have a genuine butcher shop experience, you need to check out Ray's. They have an amazing selection of meats, and they also have a full service deli and bakery. And, according to my father in law, they have an excellent fish fry on Fridays (note to self: try the fish fry!). The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about what they sell. One of the things that I think is nice about this place is their homemade sausages and brats. They also smoke their meats in-house. One of the first things you'll notice upon entering the store is the smoky smell. On our most recent trip here, my husband and I purchased 3 of their Sicilian breaded steaks and 6 of their bacon wrapped filets. We cooked up some of each of these later on that day, and were they delicious! Oh, did I mention that they have a large selection of wine? If you are a wine connoisseur, like I am, then you will be impressed with their wine department. While here, I purchased a moscato and a rose. You can also find a variety of rubs and seasonings to compliment the different meats here. I plan to make another trip here in the near future to purchase some more of the Sicilian breaded steaks (and probably some other things, as well). read more

This place smells like my childhood, somehow. Growing up in Wisconsin, I guess a weekly trip to the local butcher was the norm? Ray's has an enormous selection of all kinds of meat, poultry, sausage, and fish - including a pretty big selection of smoked meats. My steak from here was wonderful and great quality - much better than the crap you can buy in the regular grocery store. Their rolls from their bakery are also buttery and delicious. They also have a few rows of groceries, as well as a moderately sized beer and wine section. When I'm in town next, I'll insist we grab our next BBQ goods from Ray's! read more

This review is for Ray's fish fry, not the botcher shoppe. IMHO they have some of the best meat in the area. But that's not where I'm going today. Tonight the wife and I decided to get a fish fry. We don't get out much so quality is imperative. A couple of people had recommended Rays so Rays it was. The order process was pretty easy. They were extremely helpful even after I called back the second time to add a third fish fry to my order. The problems started when we got home with our dinner. The fish was soggy and cold. There was only one order of fries when I ordered two. The fries we did get were cold. The order was missing tarter sauce. And the finally, the stuffed green pepper soup was the blandest I've ever tasted. It tasted like someone just tossed some rice, hamburger and green peppers into boiling water and served it as soup. read more

Fresh beef... and not much else. I've been in to Ray's many times to grab a variety of items when I don't want to hike through a larger store. On the surface, it looks like they have a nice selection of items for a small shop. But when you take away all the window dressing, this is a butcher shop. Plain and simple. They have just enough of the other stuff to make this a quick one-stop shop on your way home from work. And the service you get is what you would expect from people that are experts in chopping up dead animals... not so much experts in customer service. Beef: Great selection. Always tastes very fresh. Cheeses: Small selection, but some quality cheeses. Sausage: An uninspiring flavor. For Milwaukee, I'd actually say it's pretty bland. Produce: Selection is small, but has some of the essentials. Non-Perishables: Generally over-priced, but has some essentials. Beer/Wine: Again, the essentials with a few premium brands to select from. Beef Jerky: Some of the best in the city. FYI - it's peppered. Deli Counter: Never used it, but it's small. Customer Service: Read on... They've never been what I would call "friendly." But they've also never been overtly "rude." Most importantly, when you go to the counter, make sure you get what you ask for. Far too many times I've asked for something, gotten home, and found that they screwed up my order. Once, they gave me a cut of meat I didn't ask for. Not only that, but I found out later that I asked for something they didn't even stock. But they thought they didn't have to tell me, and they could just give me some sirloin to make the sale. A couple weeks ago I got some beef jerky and they gave me twice as much as I asked for. At $16 a pound, and me being the ONLY person in the store, I find that unacceptable. And that was pretty much the last straw for me. With many other options available in the area, I think I can do without Ray's. read more

In the day and age where actual butcher shops are far and few between, it's nice to know that there are a few options around town. Ray's is one of those options. The reason I keep coming back is the beef jerky. It is the best I have ever had. So often jerky can taste artificial and have a chewy texture like bubble gum - yuck. Not at Ray's...their's is an awesome combination of salty, smokey and chewy. Sure its expensive, but so worth the splurge. We have had several items from the meat case, and they have all been delicious. On my last trip, we purchased some beef short ribs that were so fresh and beautiful. They made a perfect addition to the pho I was making. Another added bonus is that their operating hours are much more accommodating to my family's schedule with later hours during the week and hours on Sunday. I just finished the last of my jerky stash, so I will be back for more. read more

MMMMMMMMMMMMMMeat! A good butcher shop is one of the best finds in a city, in my opinion. Just walk in and see what inspires you. They have plenty of beef options, some pork, some good looking chickens, jerky, sausages, etc. The quality of everything we picked up was top notch! They also have a big freezer case full of a random mix of premade foods just waiting to hop in your oven, and some seafood selections. I even found pasties!! They have wine and beer, a few produce items, a small bakery case, etc. I didn't even glance at all that. I'll be back again to pick up more meat piles. Woo Hoo! read more

This is my second try at Ray's to get good ground chuck. What I received both times was meat that had a very thin layer of Red coloring on the outside. But when I got it home and cut it in half it was gray/brown inside. I know this is not normal for fresh meat, so I thew it away. Who wants the butchers surprise. I won't be back!!!! read more

This is the first time I was here at rays butcher shoppe. They have an amazing selection of meats, cheese, wine and seasoning. I also forgot that they have a bakery of delicious treats. The prices seem reasonable. Had a chance to sample their beef jerky which was absolutely amazing. While standing in line enjoying my beef jerky sample I certainly bought a lot more meat items. Highly recommend this place. With the meat items I bought it's time to smoke it... Can't wait for dinner!!! read more

Ray's Butcher Shoppe - I went to Rays for some ribs and left with a whole bag of meat. - Meat Shops Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Absolutely love Rays, the staff is always professional and kind. The meat is always of great quality and the deals are great. We make Rays a weekly venture and we live a good 1/2 hour away. We love Rays read more

Ray's Butcher Shoppe - Beef Jerky is Awesome! - Meat Shops Near Me - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Stopped in for some grilling food since it's gonna be a beautiful day in mil-town. Got a few of almost every flavor of brat and they do have the choices. Still my favorite is the habanero flavored. Can't eat more than 1 but my gosh are they delicious. This place has some of the best meats around town but be prepared they do tend be on the high side in price but well worth it. My ribeye I got for later this week is almost a good inch and a half thick. read more

I bought a beautiful New York steak Monday. Decided to try the fish fry on Friday. I really don't remember having a worse Fish Fry. Purchased the combo platter and everything was so thin that I barely recognized the butterflied shrimp, perch ect. All had dark brown heavy batter and was ice cold. It seemed all had been cooked 2days prior. $13.00 in the garbage. Steaks are the right way to go. read more

Ray's is the BEST meat shop in Milwaukee. Great Steaks, Excellent pork chops, and their Brats.... Aww Man.. You ain't gonna find Great tastin' brats from anywhere near this place. Stop in and pick up AT LEAST a dozen! No need to thank me. read more

Ray's butcher shop e used to be a staple for a Friday night fish fry for me and my friends been going here sends I was in high school and year after year the fish fry keeps getting worse and worse times I decide to order become further and further I wish they would go back to the way it was was read more

Within 5 minutes of admiring rays butchers shops prime cuts of meat i was asked by three different employees in the nicest way if i needed help. That! Is customer service! When i asked for details on their products and the differences between the gentlemen i was talking to was more than happy to break it down for me and even give me suggestions from choice of meat to preperation upon request! read more

Good selection, interesting meats and foods. Easy to find and good parking. Someone thought through the selection of veggies as it compliments the meats and meal planning. Only reason I didn't go five stars is because the teenager who handled my ground beef used his bare hands...(sigh) read more

This place is amazing!! Small town feel in the city. Excellent customer service. If they don't have what you are looking for..they will get it for you...although they have always had what we were looking for. Deli items with salads. Some bakery..rolls and breads and buns. Produce and liquor and food.items. read more

OK so I still feel the same as I did in my last review BUT after today's visit, I have one thing to add. If any employee from Ray's is reading this, PLEASE mention in the next staff meeting that wearing gloves while handling the meat is imperative!! I was in there today and majority of the employees were grabbing meat bare-handed. Blech!! I had to ASK the guy helping me to use tissue paper when grabbing each piece. He obliged, but looked at me like I had 3 heads. I don't think that is a prissy request. Dude, don't touch my meat. Ew. I will still go back, BUT I will be watching them carefully when I order. read more

Best Butcher shop in town with great prices. I don't buy meat anywhere else. Prices are reasonable and service is prompt. Known for great beef sticks and jerky. read more

My fiance and I live in Greendale and are Ray's regulars. We stop at least twice a week because the quality of the meat is outstanding. They have awesome customer service, a great selection of meats and cheeses, and even a variety of beers and wines that won't disappoint. I recommend Ray's to all of my family and friends :) read more

Remember when you were a kid and you would get a piece of jerky that was like shoe leather and you loved it? That's what theirs is like. It's great stuff. If you If you're looking for a quick meat fix, their beef sticks are great. read more

No thanks, big gross factor. I can't believe they don't wear gloves when handling meats....raw or cooked. Some younger guys do, but others use their bare hands. Once the guy told me he washed his hands, and wasn't nice about it. I wonder when he did that. I didn't see him pass a sink and stop to wash and his nails looked dirty. If they can't bother to do that for the sake of cleanliness and sanitary reasons, then I can't bother shopping there. All in all, the place doesn't appear to be to clean anyway. read more

They have great meats but they're service is lacking Imo. I went in today yesterday to purchase a few pre made trays of turkey and gravy...ok I get it's right before Christmas and it's insanely busy but I literally couldn't get anyone to answer my question all I wanted to know was how many pounds was in the turkey and gravy trays since they were $8.99 a pound and marked that they serve 4 ppl....anyway I waited in line for 10mins with 3trays only to get up to the register to a clueless cashier who had no idea how many pounds were in each container but my total was $199.53.....I'm sorry but IMO that's ridiculous and way too expensive but I had to get it for a Christmas get together at the last minute....not happy I spent that much money and nothing was clearly marked per pound price wise. read more

Sausage, cheese, smoked fish, meats, bakery, full deli, homemade casseroles (to go), wine, beer and fish fry. The selection is amazing and the quality is top notch. You will pay a little more, but you will not be disappointed with the quality. read more

I've only been here once, but from my first visit there appeared to be a good selection of meats. The location is convenient and the building looks well kept both outside and in. The only downside was service. There were many people standing behind the counter, but not one of them welcomed me or asked if they could help me find what I was looking for. read more

This is a great butcher shop and food market. I came for the brined corned beef brisket to make boiled dinner for St. Patty's day on a recommendation that it was the best around. I was not disappointed. Their meat selection is the biggest I've seen, especially for the size of the store and their butcher's are very knowledgeable and friendly. I also got the coleslaw and it was great as well. They have a large variety of other specialty items and alcohol for decent prices. When I am looking for good meat again, this is where I'll go. read more

Fantastic shop with a good selection of meats-beats any supermarket meat section hands down. Clean and friendly; I have yet to meet a rude worker. Their beef jerky is AMAZING-its worth going there just for that! Staff helpful with ideas for preparing the food and explaining cuts. Sundays they have their hot ham and roll specials, so don't get mad when its crazy busy and you want to chit chat for 15 minutes. I'm glad I live so close to this little gem! read more

Rays has the best meat, cheese, and seasonings in the city. Hands down the greatest quality, and you know that you are eating healthy and fresh foods. Their recipes and selection is phenomenal. If you haven't been there yet check it out! It will be hard to leave! I drive from the north side just to buy their product. read more

Everything from the bacon filets to the BEST beef jerky I have ever had. This place is amazing. They are the best butcher shop in the Milwaukee area. Staff is always super helpful. Never go wrong stopping at Rays. read more

I just moved in nearby and was pretty excited to see a local butcher shop down the street! There was so much variety, I really didn't know where to start. They have wine, sides, desserts, fresh meat, frozen meat and fresh fish and frozen fish! We tried the smoked salmon and o.m.g. it is the most delicious salmon I have ever tasted. I will be going back today to get more because I've been craving it all week! The beef sticks are DELICIOUS. I was just standing there watching what other people were ordering. Some time I have to try their homemade bratwursts. Those look so good too. Love supporting a local business that is as delicious as this one! read more

I like to support local business' not chains. Ray's is a place that I will stop & buy a special treat of jerky & sausage sticks. Special day! Special treat. It is the place I turn to for the best "raw beef" at Christmas. It isn't a place that I stop at regularly but a place that I know will give me the best cut of meat. One that I will cook lovingly & savor as I'm eating it. They also have a great selection of microbrews and wine that will accompany anything you purchase. If I want to do something romantic like an impromptu picnic, I will pick up all my needs there- from bakery/meat/cheese/wine. Truly an awesome place. All there employees are friendly, curteous & helpful. I live in Waukesha but my sister lives off of Loomis-so when I visit her it gives me an excuse to stop there too. :) read more

The Best butcher shop. I like it so much that every chance I get when I come to Milwaukee from Spring Grove IL I visit and take back all the goodies I can't get where I live! read more

Yes, It's as good as it gets. I love their to die for Summer Sausage. I drive up from Illinois to get it!

The people who work at Rays do not wear plastic gloves to handle their meat! I was waited on by a teen aged boy today who lifted our steaks out of the cooler with his bare hands. Then I saw him grab huge amounts of ground beef out of the cooler for another customer with his bare hands. I don't recall seeing him leave to wash his hands. We thought it might just be him, but as we left another really young man was loading country ribs off of a cart a few at a time with his bare hands. I'm not even sure this is legal. What's under their nails? Ugh. Will never go back!!! read more

Product is great but the service is terrible. When I enter I'm ignored even though there are employees around. Recently went in on a Sunday morning for ham and rolls. Asked for a pound of ham and the man turned to another male employee whom was slicing ham and said, "I'll take a pound of blow jobs" as I stood there. After that encounter I will never return. read more

I thought I would try them one more time for some cheddar brats. They were SO SALTY most of them ended in the trash. Never Again! What ever happen to the good Ray's I use to know? Going to Sendiks instead. read more

Poor service. Called in to verify availability. Drove across city to be told that there was not any of a particular cut and had not been all day. Manager was dismissive and immediately asked for the next customer. Save yourself time and head to Bunzel's. That place has never disappointed. read more

Great butcher shop with a good selection of meats, sausage and pre packaged homemade food. I love the chicken corden bleu, and stuffed chops. A limited bakery counter and grocery are good for that one item you missed at the grocery store. They also have a selection of import and domestic beers and wines to complement any meal. Prices are a little high, but the quality of the meats exceeds your local grocery stores meat counter. read more

Food is great, the service is awful! Rude unfriendly service. If you don't like the customers then get the hell out of the customer service business. (To the lady at the counter that just told me to put my phone down) read more