Where To Find The Best Local Butcher Shops In VA Ahead Of Thanksgiving

For those who believe a turkey is a non-negotiable Thanksgiving dinner staple, a new survey has revealed which three independent butcher shops in Virginia are best known for delivering top-quality birds at prices that don’t break the holiday budget.

Ahead of Thanksgiving, finance website MarketBeat surveyed 3,008 people to find the best independent butchers in every state.

The survey revealed that even in an era of inflation and supermarket convenience, Americans still place deep trust in their neighborhood butchers.

"The map of the 'best independent butchers' isn’t just about meat – it’s a story of local loyalty, regional flavor and how small businesses keep traditions alive when prices keep climbing," MarketBeat wrote.

These were the top three independent butchers in Virginia, according to the survey:

Olde Towne Butcher, Fredericksburg

What MarketBeat wrote: "In historic Fredericksburg, Olde Towne Butcher is where tradition and quality meet behind the counter. The shop carries sustainable, humane meats and offers full custom cutting and special orders. As November arrives, the display cases fill, and local families stop by to reserve their turkeys, roasts, or specialty sides. The butchers take time for each order — adjusting for crowd size, oven space or seasonal pairings — so you leave confident the centerpiece will shine. In a town built on history, Olde Towne adds flavor to every new tradition."

Belmont Butchery, Richmond

What MarketBeat wrote: "In Richmond, Belmont Butchery is a culinary refuge for anyone who believes the holiday centerpiece deserves real care. Founded by chef-butcher Tanya Cauthen, the shop emphasizes nose-to-tail craft, house charcuterie and local sourcing. As Thanksgiving draws near, folks from across the region place their orders weeks in advance — turkeys, roasts, game birds and specialty cuts. The staff know exactly how much each guest will eat, how to trim for your oven, and which rubs will punch up flavor without overpowering. Every parcel is wrapped with intention, and every question is met with expertise. Shopping there feels like part of the holiday itself."

Yard Bull Meats, Roanoke

What MarketBeat wrote: "Up in the Roanoke Valley, Yard Bull Meats stands as a modern butcher with rural roots. They specialize in whole-animal butchery, dry-aged steaks, custom cuts and house-made sausages — all treated with precision. In the lead-up to Thanksgiving, the shop hums with prep: turkeys reserved, ribs trimmed, specialty roasts asked for. The staff are proud of their process and generous with advice — portion planning, resting times and how to carve like a pro. For families in the hills, Yard Bull becomes the anchor for a feast that feels intentional and regional."

See the full survey here.

A September outlook report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated that wholesale frozen turkey prices will be $1.32 per pound this year, a 40 percent increase from 2024’s average price of 94 cents per pound.

According to the report, the spike is likely due to outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in late 2024 and early 2025 that depleted flocks and led to egg shortages. Eight outbreaks in North and South Dakota affected over 400,000 birds.