Where to Buy Beef Short Ribs Near Me: A Guide to Finding High-Quality Short Ribs

Beef short ribs are a coveted cut for barbecuing and braising. Their high fat content and rich meatiness make them ideal for slow, moist cooking methods that tenderize while infusing tremendous flavor. But sourcing high-quality short ribs can be a challenge if you don’t know where to look. This guide will walk through the best places to buy beef short ribs near you.

Overview of Beef Short Ribs

Before diving into where to buy, let’s overview what short ribs are:

• Cut from the beef plate primal located under the ribs

• Contains sections of rib bones surrounded by meaty goodness

• Very marbled with fat interspersed through the meat

• Sold bone-in or boneless, also referred to as flanken style

• Ideal for braising, stewing, barbecuing and smoking

• Requires slow cooking to break down connective tissues

• Known for rich, beefy flavor when cooked properly

Where to Buy Beef Short Ribs

Local Butcher Shop

• Typically offer highest quality beef from reputable suppliers

• Ability to custom cut short ribs to your ideal thickness

• Knowledgeable butchers to provide cooking recommendations

• Specialty butcher shops will have the best selection

• Expect to pay more per pound than big box stores

Farmer’s Market

• Source grass-fed or local short ribs from area farms

• Support small, sustainable agriculture

• Build relationships with vendors for custom cuts

• Availability may be seasonal or sporadic

• Excellent for humanely raised, organic options

Costco or Sam’s Club

• Offer consistent availability of short ribs at reasonable prices

• Tend to be choice grade with decent marbling

• Short ribs often sold frozen in big packages

• Limited ability to customize thickness of cuts

• Overall good bang for your buck

Quality Supermarkets

• Kroger, Publix, H-E-B and other chains will carry short ribs

• Typically choice grade and adequately marbled

• Uniform sizing makes cooking easier

• Often found in the fresh meat department

• Prices very competitive with warehouse clubs

Online Butcher Shops

• Companies like Snake River Farms ship nationwide

• Highest quality beef like certified Angus or Wagyu

• Exact thickness and portion sizes

• Freeze and deliver fresh short ribs to your door

• Provides access to premier beef regardless of local availability

Restaurant Supplier

• Businesses like Restaurant Depot sell to the public

• Offer large packs of short ribs at discount prices

• May have more exotic cuts like bone-in short ribs

• Minimum purchases and membership fees often required

• Perfect for large barbecue events or multiple recipes

What to Look for When Buying Short Ribs

No matter where you purchase short ribs, keep these tips in mind:

• Seek plenty of marbling for flavor and tenderness

• Look for a deep red color without dried or brown spots

• Confirm thick cut between 3/4 – 1 inch for braising

• Check for fresh smell without odor of ammonia

• Ask butcher questions about grade, aging and source

• Cost will range widely based on quality and cut

Make the Most of Your Short Ribs

Once you source those perfect short ribs, be sure to cook them properly to maximize their full potential. Methods like braising, stewing, smoking and sous vide allow the fat to slowly render and meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender. Cooking your short ribs low and slow does them justice.

With knowledge of the best sources and what to look for, you can seek out incredible short ribs for your next barbecue masterpiece or cozy braise. Now get cooking and savor the beefy glory of short ribs!