Joe Willoughby opens Butcher Joe’s in Highcliffe, offering premium British meat with a focus on local sourcing.
Joe believes in local food and wants very little farm-to-fork travel. He feels his customers should know where food comes from. He wants premium standards and new skills.
Joe learned these by working with top butchers in London, preparing meat for famous chefs including Marcus Wareing, Phil Howard, and Callum Franklin. Joe worked in the trade for 16 years, with very talented butchers.
This experience inspired him to open his own shop now, where he will use his own ideas. Butchery is an under-appreciated skill, and many changes keep up with the times adding finesse to the old craft.
Joe will stay open later on Thursdays to cater to busy people who can visit on their way home. Joe became interested around age 14 and has practiced ever since.
He moved to London, where he improved his skills working for Ginger Pig butchers and HG Walter. Joe also learned about running a shop; you need service and business sense.
Location is key, and 358 Lymington Road is perfect. A butcher shop has been there 30 years, and he will honor the past and create a nostalgic experience. He found vintage tiles during renovations and wants to carry on the history.