The Organic Butcher of McLean Celebrates 20 Years

“We’re a gathering place. On Saturdays when there’s a line out the door, neighbors meet neighbors, or you meet someone new. There’s a positive vibe, everyone seems happy.”

That’s how owner Don Roden describes The Organic Butcher of McLean. 

We had a lovely conversation as he shared some memories from his twenty years of experience.

The reward, to him, has always been seeing his customers smile. 

Relationships develop over good food and sharing knowledge. “We’re constantly learning from our customers, and they’re learning from us.” 

Customers from various parts of the world find their way to the shop in search of something from home that they can’t seem to find locally. Caring enough to take the time to explore and finally identify a particular cut of beef or pork brings the reward of a smile on the customer’s face. And then, that same item can be introduced to another customer for the first time, with a suggestion to try something new from a far-away land. Another smile…

Don’s motivations for establishing The Organic Butcher were to bring back a fading traditional art, provide full service, and offer the most healthful food he could find. He chooses producers who raise animals on pasture with care and attention. Polyface Farm is among them.

One feature that makes The Organic Butcher unique is the transparency built into the store design. 

Don explains, “You’re surrounded by the whole operation. When you walk in, you see everything happening. It’s more than just talking with the butcher at the counter. It’s looking over their shoulder and watching someone make our house-made sausage, and someone else making our salsa and corn salad.”

Observing all this activity is educational and entertaining; a sharp contrast to many butcher shops where it all occurs behind closed doors and opaque walls.

This year, The Organic Butcher celebrated its 20th year by staging a festive all-day event on October 18th. There were luscious selections on the smoker, and a chance to meet and chat with vendors and producers.

If you want to visit sometime, their address is

6712 Old Dominion Drive 

McLean, VA 22101

You can also find them online by searching for "The Organic Butcher of McLean."

So go for the experience. Who knows? You might meet some of your neighbors there, and you'll definitely eat good food.

May you be deeply nourished, 
Susan