Meat Your Lunch at Bavette

There is no place in the city (that we know of) where you can see so clearly where your lunch came from. Bavette, a conscientiously-sourced boucherie (French for “butcher shop”) in the Third Ward, showcases a veteran meat cutter’s talents on the center block, ringed by a counter and tables. Eat your lunch as the butcher methodically separates the whole animal into primals and then cuts down from there – it’s the most honest way to call yourself a carnivore.

Some days, sitting at the counter, you even witness a flurry of activity as Black Earth Meats delivers the animal of the day. This level of transparency weaves through all of Bavette’s offerings, which range from prepared sausages to off-cuts to lesser-known specialty items.

Bavette is owned by Karen Bell, but it’s a family affair. Her sisters and nephew help out, doing dishes and serving customers. A Milwaukee native who spent years operating a restaurant in Spain, Karen’s offerings show a thoughtful touch and European influence.