Lobel’s of New York
www.lobels.com Lobel’s offers a huge selection of excellent dry-aged beef that has never been frozen.
try: Two 8-ounce filet mignons (shown), $60.
navigation notes: Diagrams show where each cut of meat comes from — a helpful map for novices. Buy specific cuts or peruse packages that combine different types of meat.
gift options and wrapping: Worried about those steaks sitting on your in-laws’ doorstep while they’re in Hawaii? Place an order and have it shipped as a gift certificate. The recipient calls to arrange for delivery.
customer service and shipping: Meat is vacuum-sealed, packed with gel ice packs, then shipped overnight for a flat fee.
Niman Ranch
www.nimanranch.com This is a source for high-quality beef, pork, and lamb from humanely raised animals.
try: Four boneless
1-inch pork chops, $30.
navigation notes: Choose the type of meat, then the cut. You can buy everything from steaks to beef tripe (the lining of the cow’s stomach). The site includes an extensive recipe collection.
gift options and wrapping: Orders come vacuum-sealed in plastic with a gift message. Gift packs of assorted meats range from $100 to $170.
customer service and shipping: All orders are shipped via FedEx overnight in foam packaging with gel ice packs. Bonus: If your order is $85 or more, shipping is free.
Jamison Farm
www.jamisonfarm.comThis is many chefs’ go-to site for lean, tender, hormone-free lamb.
try: The Gift Sampler pack (a leg of lamb, 4 lamb chops, and 1 lamb pie), $78.
navigation notes: All selections, even individual items, are listed under “Gift Packs.” It also has a useful section called “Family Recipes.”
gift options and wrapping: Combination packs make good gifts (you can choose from meat samplers to a soup-and-stew assortment); they range in price from $70 to $178. Request that a card be included.
customer service and shipping: Lamb is shipped frozen, 2-day, or overnight, packed with dry ice and gel ice packs. The owners appreciate a week’s notice but can ship something within a few days if necessary.
