The 5 Best Butcher Shops Around Frederick

For some, a trip to the butcher shop isn’t just a grocery errand—it’s a ritual. According to the North American Meat Institute, more than 90% of U.S. households consume meat weekly, but it’s the quality and craftsmanship of local butchers that turn an everyday meal into something memorable. The Best of the Best recognizes Frederick County’s skilled meat cutters and family-owned markets, where tradition, technique, and taste converge. These shops remind us that behind every perfect cut is a story of local pride and generations of know-how.

Hemps Meats

For over a century, Hemps Meats has been a staple of Frederick County’s food scene. Founded in 1849, the business continues to blend time-honored butchery methods with modern standards for quality and safety. Specializing in locally sourced beef, pork, and lamb, Hemps Meats is known for its commitment to farm-to-table freshness. The shop also offers custom processing and a full range of smoked products, demonstrating a deep respect for both craftsmanship and community connection.

Hillside Turkey Farms

Family-owned and operated since 1939, Hillside Turkey Farms has turned poultry into an art form. Known for raising turkeys on-site, the farm manages every step of production—from hatching to processing—to ensure consistency and quality. Beyond turkey, the business has expanded its offerings to include chicken, beef, and pork products, along with smoked meats and homemade sausages. Hillside’s dedication to sustainable farming and superior flavor has made it a trusted name throughout Maryland and beyond.

Wagner Meats & Mt. Airy Meat Locker

Wagner Meats & Mt. Airy Meat Locker combines two long-standing family businesses under one roof, serving customers who value local sourcing and traditional butchery. The team prides itself on its small-batch approach, focusing on hand-cut meats, custom orders, and specialty products like smoked bacon and sausages. With deep roots in the community, Wagner Meats continues to honor its heritage while embracing modern food trends such as farm-to-freezer programs and locally raised beef.

Shriver Meats

At Shriver Meats, farming and butchery go hand in hand. The Shriver family raises their own cattle on a fourth-generation farm in Emmitsburg, ensuring full transparency from pasture to plate. Their focus on natural feeding practices and humane care results in beef that’s rich in flavor and free from unnecessary additives. By selling directly to consumers, Shriver Meats has cultivated a loyal following of customers who appreciate knowing exactly where their food comes from.

Shuff’s Meat Market

Since opening its doors in 1915, Shuff’s Meat Market has been synonymous with quality and personal service. The Thurmont-based market offers a wide selection of fresh meats, including custom cuts, smoked specialties, and ready-to-cook options. Generations of expertise shape every order, with the team carrying forward a reputation built on trust, precision, and pride in their work. Shuff’s longevity speaks to its commitment to keeping the craft of butchery alive in Frederick County.

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