Steve's is apparently THE 'Meat Market' in this sleepy burg just to the far northwest of anywhere. We found out about Steve's after asking around at the BBQ joint up the street because we needed some peppered beef jerky to keep us rolling on our 2 day road trip. I figured that this was a good a place as any to ask, because meat heads in these towns usually stick together.
Located just a few blocks north in an unassuming building on the main strip going through town, I found it curious that a meat market this small could be a going concern. We parked and walked to the door. As we entered to the 'tinkle-tinkle' of a little bell, we found the meat counter to be impressively stocked and prices quite reasonable. Everything was quiet. Too quiet. To our surprise, the clock suddenly struck high noon! Twelve bells!!
For the jerky, the guy at the BBQ joint said 'you gotta talk to Steve personally'. So we asked the young man at the counter for Steve, the helper said "SShhhh!!" and we were quietly shuffled right back out the front door. He whispered that 'Steve' works in the back and he STFD. And locked it. WTH?? Really??!!
So knowing we are desperate for a dried meat fix, we went to try the back door. We knocked three times and the door opened - but cracked only slightly. A pale man in a ball cap held out his hand, but said nothing. I fumbled for $10, handed it to the man and he quickly gave me the 'product' in a brown paper sack. The door slammed shut...locked tight. As the hair stood up on the back of my neck, I dared not open the bag - we just looked at each other, ran to the car, got in and hauled azz.
Once out of town, the bag was opened....dried, peppery, chewy/crunchy....yep....THIS was the real deal. Just remember to knock three times. read more