Labor Day grilling

Where to get the best meats to show off this weekend

By Claire Nunn on September 5, 2021

The final weekend of summer is upon us. It's the big finale, everyone gassing up their grills, putting the slip and slide out one last time and planning to throw a final gathering before you pack it all in until next year. 

If you're among those hungry for one last weekend of pure summer bliss and plan to BBQ, here is where to head out and grab some top quality meat to throw onto the grill. 

AA Meats in Lakewood is a neighborhood meat market that has been in business since 1955. Fresh cuts of beef, pork, poultry, seafood and even exotic meats are available here. Right now they have a "Summer Bar Q" pack that would be perfect for a Labor Day weekend party. This pack includes 4 lbs. of New York steaks, 5 lbs. of country-style ribs, 5 lbs. of hamburger patties, 5 lbs. of chicken parts and 3 lbs. of hot dogs all for $155. You could definitely invite the whole neighborhood! 

AA MEATS, open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday; 5116 111th St. SW, Lakewood, 253.588.7979, https://www.aameats.net/

Located on Martin Way in Olympia, another option is Gibson's Custom Meats. Specializing in local raised meat and fresh seafood products with either being a delicious option for a Labor Day cookout. And if you're looking for future needs, this shop has the ability to source different products from all over the world. Boudin from Louisiana and Scrapple from Pennsylvania are currently sold in their shop. They can also custom cut any meat you provide. 

GIBSON'S CUSTOM MEATS, open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday; 7912 Martin Way E, Olympia, 360.489.0129, http://www.gibsonscustommeats.com/home.html

Stewart's Meats in Olympia has been in business since 1933 and has a large selection of meats to choose from for your Labor Day barbecue needs. They also have a pack that could simplify the decision making process of what to serve. Their 12 lb. marinated BBQ packs would be a great option with a 3 lb. marinated tri-tip, three 1 lb. teriyaki ribs, two 1 lb. marinated chicken breasts, 2 lbs. marinated baby back ribs and 2 lbs. marinated hot wings for $89.95 (prices subject to vary)

STEWART'S MEATS, open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday; 700 Capitol Way N, Olympia, 360.458.2091, http://stewartsmeatmarket.com/

Another option located in the Lacey area is North West Meats. This shop has a wide range of local, organic products like grass-fed beef and carne asada marinated in their own special marinade sauce. Home-made chorizo is also an option if you're looking for something a little different to add to your Labor Day menu. If you need any accompaniments for any meat you decide to grill - tamales, salsa and guac are options to pick up while visiting as well. 

NORTH WEST MEATS, open daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., 9408 Martin Way E Unit 5, Olympia, https://northwestmeats.biz/