Thanksgiving tends to be an easy holiday meal to plan. A majority of families cook the same classic meal consisting of turkey and all the fixings. When it comes to the December holidays, families really mix it up a bit. Holiday meals will be different from home to home but will almost always have a centerpiece dish consisting of some type of meat. But not just any meat, the holiday centerpiece dish will usually be something that is not typically eaten week to week. Perhaps a succulent prime rib or a cut of lamb is on the holiday menu. These specialty cuts are not always something you can find at your local grocer. That's when people turn to their local specialty meats stores or butcher shops.

AA Meats in Lakewood has been a community go-to for over 60 years. Although the landscape around it has changed over the decades, AA Meats remains the old-fashioned meat market that it started out as. Their reputation for being a trustworthy and friendly establishment has kept their customers coming back week after week and year after year. Their front counter is always full of the freshest cuts of meat and their friendly staff is always eager to serve their customers. As with most places, AA Meats sees an increase in business around the holidays with customers eager to plan their holiday meals.

Customers come to AA Meats to place orders for their bone-in hams, rib roasts, crown roasts, or even smoked turkeys. "We have been here so long we have earned a reputation of doing good," said Tammy Faelnar, manager at AA Meats. Not only do they have the traditional fresh cuts of meat that families want for the holidays, AA Meats also has an exotic selection of meats. Customers can purchase kangaroo, camel, and turtle as well as elk and deer. "Our selection of exotic meats are pretty popular with those who have food allergies," said Faelnar.

If you're looking for something to bring to a holiday party, AA Meats happily put together jerky trays with cheese and pepperoni. Gift certificates to AA Meats also make great gifts. If you're not sure what you would like to order, customers are always more than welcome to drop in and take a look. AA Meats would be more than happy to help you fulfill your holiday orders. "Our customers always tell us how friendly we are," said Faelnar. "We love to help!" Customers may also place orders over the phone. Whatever your specialty meat needs are this holiday season, AA Meats has you covered.

AA Meats, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 5116 111th St. SW, Lakewood, 253.588.7979, aameats.net