The HERD Craft Butchery difference for Kilkenny locals

It’s a fair question, why a craft butcher like us would focus on a place like Kilkenny. Well, the short answer is simple: you lot appreciate good food. We’ve seen the tables you set, heard the stories about Sunday roasts. It’s about more than just meat; it’s about connecting with where your food comes from. That’s the bedrock of what we do. We don’t cut corners, and we expect the same from the farmers we partner with.

Our commitment to Kilkenny farmers and your table

We’re not just shipping meat into Kilkenny; we’re building relationships. We work with a tight network of small-batch farms, mostly within a stone’s throw of the county, frankly. These aren’t industrial operations. They’re families who’ve been tending the land for generations, often using practices that are frankly considered old-fashioned by the big players. That means animals that move freely, eat naturally – mostly grass, hence the flavour – and are treated with respect. You can taste it. We take animals from nose to tail, ensuring nothing goes to waste. It’s the most sensible approach, and we have a full list of our services covering everything from bespoke cuts to charcuterie.

The price reflects the effort, sure. Anyone telling you different is either trying to pull a fast one or doesn’t understand the economics of truly sustainable farming. We had one client whose phone rang three times in the first week after switching to our lamb – they were just so used to bland supermarket stuff.

What we do in Kilkenny

What makes our Kilkenny meat selection stand out

• Grass-Fed Beef: Forget that pale, watery stuff. Ours has that deep red colour, that marbling that speaks of slow growth and good pasture. The flavour? Unmistakable. It’s what beef should taste like. We butcher whole sides, so you get cuts you might not see elsewhere.
• Free-Range Pork: Our pigs aren’t cooped up. They root, they roam. This leads to meat that’s a bit firmer, a bit richer. The crackling alone is worth the price of admission.
• Local Lamb: Raised on those rolling green hills Kilkenny is famous for. Tender, flavourful, a world away from anything mass-produced. We’ve got everything from forequarters for slow cooking to chops for a quick pan-sear.
• Sausages & Charcuterie: This is where we really let loose. Using trim and prime cuts from the animals, we create sausages packed with flavour – no fillers, just good meat and seasoning. Our charcuterie, well, that’s a whole other passion project.

You won’t find this kind of quality on every corner. It takes time. It takes knowledge. And it takes a genuine love for the craft.

Getting your HERD Craft Butchery order in Kilkenny

Ordering is straightforward. You can pop into our shop if you’re passing, but for most folks in Kilkenny, the refrigerated parcel is the way to go. We pack everything ourselves, ensuring it arrives chilled and ready for your fridge. It’s express shipping, so your meat doesn’t sit around.

Alternatively, you can order online for delivery. order online, say hello. We’re happy to chat about cuts, recipes, whatever’s on your mind. We’re proud of the Premium Free-Range Butcher service we offer, and we want you to experience it.

We’re talking about meat that deserves a place on your plate, not just filling a gap. Think of the difference for a Sunday roast, or even just a weeknight steak. That’s the goal. It’s about making good food accessible, even if that means shipping it a bit. Back to the homepage.

Kilkenny — frequently asked

How is the meat kept fresh during delivery to Kilkenny?

We use specialised, insulated refrigerated parcels with high-grade ice packs. Your order is kept at a consistent temperature from our shop to your doorstep, typically arriving within 24-48 hours.

Can I order specific cuts not listed online?

Absolutely. Give us a call or drop us a message with your requirements. As dedicated butchers, we can often accommodate custom cuts and preparations.

Are your animals truly grass-fed?

Yes, our primary focus is on animals that spend their lives grazing on pasture. This diet is key to the flavour and quality of our beef, lamb, and pork.

Do you source meat from Irish farms specifically?

We prioritise local sourcing wherever possible, with many of our partner farms located in or very near County Kilkenny. Traceability is.

What’s the difference between your beef and supermarket beef?

Our beef is from grass-fed, slower-growing animals. It has richer flavour, better marbling, and a deeper colour compared to the often grain-fed, faster-grown meat found in supermarkets.

How do I store the meat once it arrives?

The meat will arrive chilled. Store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator immediately. For longer storage, it’s best to freeze what you won’t use within 2-3 days.

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