Rose Mountain Butcher Shoppe

We drove a half hour to this butcher since the previous review spoke so highly. We were really disappointed by the lack of selection. We were really looking forward to purchasing some brats and there were none available. We asked about bacon and goat and again there was none. There were a few steaks on display but nothing more. I had hoped to salvage the trip by purchasing some fresh produce and the only thing available was lettuce and onions. We settled on a small amount of breakfast sausage. Hoping to find more selection of meats at the farmers market tomorrow. I would not recommend driving out of your way for this place unless you call ahead. Grassfed beef was priced @ 9.99 per # which is more than Whole Foods.

We have been going to Ashe County for some time now since we purchased property just outside of town. We have met some of the business owners and gotten to know them and their shops quite well. This is a smaller town located in the NW corner of NC, but close to many tourist attractions, which draws a good many visitors. There is a small local grocery store on the main strip, but the town needed a great butcher shop. (actually, the county did too). Ann Rose saw the need for a local butcher, and opened this shop earlier this year. She has started offering non-​GMO products that are raised in the local area by local farmers, plus some items that she raises on her own farm. Local farm raised trout is often available. Beef, Lamb and Pork products are also in plentiful supply. I want to specifically talk about her Pork. One of her specialties is Bratwurst. Having lived in Germany, I know the original bratwurst quite well and hers is every bit as good. We love her sausage also, which is so lean, that when you cook it, you have NO grease in your pan. Multiple produce items are also offered as they are seasonably available, plus locally made preserves and other items.
With this shop being in a small town, why would I recommend you spend your time and gas driving there? Because of the quality of what you get. Sure, you can go to the big chains and probably get the meat cheaper. But it will not be the quality. If you don’t believe me, watch how much grease you get in your pan this time, then compare it to what is left once you’ve tried any of her meats. (also, is it cheaper if you lose a higher percentage of your meat to grease?) Plus, you know where this food has been. The big chains may have left it hanging in lockers for god knows how long, or in warehouses anywhere from here to Cali. This is fresh. And fresh tastes better. Plus, you are supporting not only a local business, but also a lot of farmers who depend on shops like this to sell their products. Matter of fact, her brats are now used at Boondocks in West Jefferson (neighboring town) and her sausage is used at the local pizzeria (Pie On The Mountain). She has also raised the funds to purchase a commercial smoker, so the offerings will only get better. This is not a business owner who wants to make a buck, but this is someone who will bust her behind to help the town grow (she does a lot!) and anyone who is wanting to enjoy farming (garden or bigger), she is more than willing to help them succeed. Fresh seasonal veggies, fresh meats and other delights make this drive worth it. People from all over
Ashe are driving the extra miles because it is worth it, and you will find yourself agreeing too!