This edition of 5 Questions With… features Amanda Meyer, one half of the duo behind Edmonton’s beloved award winning butcher shop, Acme Meat Market.

Now, you all know that I am a huge fan of Acme and their meaty goodness, and I’m equally a fan of Amanda and her husband Corey, the butcher. Ever since my first visit to Acme a few years ago, they’ve converted me totally from some pretty poor quality box store meats, to their quality all local products. Believe me, that was no easy task, given my legendary cheapness.

I had a taste of the good stuff, and I can’t go back.

If you’ve ever chatted with Acme over twitter (@acmemeatmarket), or on Facebook, you’ve talked to Amanda. She’s got a wicked sense of humour, and does a terrific job of engaging the butcher shop’s customers online and in the shop.

Today I figured I’d try to give you a glimpse (y’know, as much of a glimpse as you can get from 5 answers) over the meat counter and let you get to know Amanda a little bit.

1. Since my website is so content focused on burgers right now, can you explain for me and all the readers why they say you should only cook your burgers medium rare if you trust the source and butcher? What does a good butcher do differently that makes medium rare burgers safe?

They say the best thing you can do is to get to know your butcher. People trust our quality of beef, we know where it’s sourced from, and they also trust how we handle it. They know that we trim everything ourselves in store and that we grind fresh every day. 

2. I’m guessing you probably get the odd request for things that most of us would find weird. What’s the weirdest request you’ve had from a customer. 

We have such an adventurous customer base that will try just about anything. We do go through a lot of the usual odd-bits such as bone marrow, liver and tongue but just recently we had an order for 10kg of Prairie Oysters, for those that don’t know read; Cow testicles. It wasn’t as much the item, as it was the quantity. I didn’t ask, I don’t want to know. 

3. Where would we find the Meyers hanging out on a night off without the kids? 

With friends and any where there’s good food & drinks. When we’re not eating & drinking, we’re in bed. Sleeping because I’m usually exhausted after work.

4. What’s a typical dinner like in the Meyer household? I’m picturing a round of Flintstone style steaks hitting the grill on the regular. Do you ever throw in a salad just to mix it up a bit?

Ha! We do eat a lot of meat, obviously, but we try and find a good balance. Every plate has a veggie on it, whether the kids like it or not! During the week, it can be busy and dinner can sometimes be a little weak. Sundays and Mondays are our food-filled family days! Fun fact; when dining out I typically go for the vegan options. I know, right?!? 

5. Pigs have taken over the world, and you two are public enemy # 1 & 2. What’s your final meal before they exact their revenge?

I’m torn between a big plate of bacon before I run away, or perhaps enjoying some fried chicken while begging for forgiveness….just kidding. Bacon it is!

You can hit up Acme 5 days a week from Tuesday- Saturday. When you do, make sure to say “hi” to Amanda and Corey and maybe ask them some questions of your own. Heck, you might even see me there.

Acme Meat Market- 9531 76 ave Edmonton

Website- www.acmemeatmarket.ca