A CUT ABOVE – Experience Steakation Butchers
Serving meat that is a cut above the rest has always been the way to go for Steakation Butchers. From honey glazed ham to tender chicken breast, Steakation Butchers is the Virgin Islands’ premier artisan butchery and market, committed to sourcing quality assured meat for all your meals. We had the pleasure of sitting with Alex Durante, an established entrepreneur and owner of Steakation Butchers, to take us through the world of artisan butchery and why you can have confidence in every cut!
FROM BILTONG TO BUTCHERY:
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
The story of Steakation Butchers began during the aftermath of the 2017 hurricanes, when Dean, a former chef, started making biltong to share with friends and family. “The idea for Steakation actually originated from my partner, Dean,” Alex explained. “He started a company called Beachin’ Biltong, which is a South African dried meat product.” The popularity of this snack led to its sale in Alex’s flagship E.Co store on Main Street in Road Town. As the demand for the delicious biltong grew, Alex and Dean decided to expand their operations, leading to the creation of the artisan butchery. “He couldn’t find fresh meat supplies for the biltong, and we realized that was a common issue. Most of the meat available was frozen, and that just wasn’t authentic.” Alex shared.
After the 2017 hurricanes came the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Like many persons who became more creative during lockdown periods, taking up hobbies like cooking, painting, sewing, and gardening, Alex’s creativity was also influenced by the pandemic. “During Covid, the word ‘staycation’ was everywhere,” Alex said as she reflected on that time. “We thought, why not play off that?” For Alex, it signifies that you don’t have to be on vacation to enjoy great food. Thus, Steakation Butchers was born.
MORE THAN JUST A BUTCHERY
Steakation is more than just a butchery; it embodies a commitment to tradition, sustainability, and the highest quality products. At the heart of the operation is a team of skilled artisan butchers dedicated to sourcing and preparing fine meats, seafood, and produce such as premium beef, pork, lamb, salmon, and poultry. Each cut speaks to their craftsmanship, with a core philosophy of ensuring that customers experience the best flavours possible. “We receive whole primals—like an entire side of a pig or a whole ribeye—and create our own cuts,” Alex explained. “This way, we can customize the meat to our customers’ preferences. If someone wants a steak cut to a specific size, we can do that.” From succulent steaks to fresh seafood, every product is curated with care.
Steakation Butchers also prides itself in supporting local farmers and fishermen. For Alex and Dean, community support is paramount. The business works closely with local farmers and fishermen, ensuring that their products are not only of high quality but also responsibly sourced. With a dedication to sustainability, Steakation strives to reduce its environmental impact while providing customers with fresh, local options. For the couple, if it can’t be found locally, they’ll make it themselves. This approach is evident in their unique product offerings like their seafood sausage made from a blend of salmon, scallops, and lobster.
Their commitment to quality also extends to global artisan foods and the use of small batch businesses who prioritize sustainable farming and fishing practices. “Our whole ship is basically artisan goods as well as meat so if you get soy sauce from us, it’s coming from Japan; if you get tacos, its coming from Mexico.” Alex proudly shared. The butchery’s range of artisan goods includes gourmet sausages, charcuterie, and specialty items made using traditional recipes. “It’s like a restaurant experience for home cooks. We provide the ingredients, and they can feel like chefs in their own kitchens.” Alex added. By curating a selection of exceptional ingredients, Steakation Butchers is a true culinary haven.
THE ULTIMATE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Visiting Steakation Butchers is an experience in itself. Located at Wickham’s Cay II, the butchery offers a warm and welcoming environment for food lovers as the sweet aroma of our rotisserie chicken and freshly baked bread greets you as soon as you enter. “Customers are often surprised by what they find,” Alex shared. “We work with local farmers and fishermen, so you’ll see fresh produce and local goods everywhere.” Customers can explore the diverse selection of fresh meats, seafood, artisan goods, and produce. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist, whether it’s providing cooking tips or recommending products. “Don’t hesitate to ask them for recommendations or help with that Instagram-worthy dish you want to create.” Alex added. For those who prefer convenience, Steakation Butchers also offers online ordering, with delivery available to any island, port, house, or villa in the Virgin Islands, including Anegada. This commitment to customer service ensures that you can stay at home and have Steakation come to you with the finest meats and artisanal products, no matter where you are located.
VISIT STEAKATION TODAY!
As Steakation continues to grow and expand, Alex is excited about future plans. “We plan to introduce more hot food options and expand our delivery services,” she revealed. “There are a lot of exciting projects on the horizon, and I can’t wait to share them once we’re ready. It’s going to be amazing!” To learn more about their current offerings and to stayed tuned for their upcoming developments, be sure to check out their website at www.bvibutcher.com or their Facebook page at Steakation Butchers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a professional chef or a beginner, a trip to Steakation promises a memorable experience that will bring the best of Virgin Islands right to your kitchen! You don’t need to be on vacation to experience exceptional food! Visit Steakation Butchers today!
