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Schatzie’s: Meet the Meat Man of Manhattan

Schatzie's Burger Joint
Schatzie’s Burger Joint

Back in the day, the neighborhood butcher was a honorable profession.  Dozens and dozens of customers would line up around the place and out the door for the finest cuts of meat done with an expert cleaver.  Granted, I may not be from the “good ol’ days”, but at the risk of waxing nostalgic, I kinda miss the days when butchers wore suits, shined shoes, and had a multitude of meats.  Nowadays, the only place when you can see this are the waiters at Peter Lugers or, better yet, you can see it on Manhattan’s Upper West Side.  Oh, and bring your appetite!

Just a few blocks south of Columbia University and a few blocks east of Riverside Park, Schatzie’s has been a family owned business for over a century.  is two places in one: part old school butcher shop and part restaurant.  The main attraction here are there thick, juicy hamburgers.  Then again, what better place to dine on great meat than inside a butcher shop?!  The inside is relatively small; half the place has the butcher counter and the other half is the seating area.  You’ll find framed photos of butchers wearing classic bowtie and black-tie suits.  Simple decor aside, the menu is as such.

Inside Schatzie's Meatworks!
Inside Schatzie’s Meatworks!

The “Schatzie” is the premier burger inside: a prime, ground beef burger that is made in house from the finest, blended cuts.  For those looking to be more adventurous, they have a turkey burger, chopped brisket, pulled pork, grilled chicken, and for any Aussie tourists, an “Aussie” burger topped with beetroot, pineapple, and a fried egg!  I found the Schatzie to be juicy and satisfying.  I’m not that crazy about the brioche bun, but the quality of the pattie is perfect.  I take mine with plenty of grilled onions and cooked medium rare to medium.  Pair any of those burgers with their fresh-cut fries (Belgian-style!), and you’ve got one hell of a meal!  The fries are very crisp, skin kept intact, and frankly, are rather addicting!  Oh, and do order up one of their egg creams!  You’ll thank me!

Burger and Fries, butcher shop style!
Burger and Fries, butcher shop style!

Schatzie’s Burger Joint

2665 Broadway (between 101st and 102st Street), NY, NY 10025

(212) 410-1555 (6)

Mon. – Sat. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

http://www.schatziethebutcher.com/

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