Meet Real Meat at Mike’s

Written By: Dori Pulse  |  Posted: Tuesday, March 22nd, 2016

Opening the door and stepping into a genuine meat locker always calls to the farm girl in me. When I stepped into Mike's Star Market, I immediately noticed two things. The first was a hand-printed sign advising those that brought in their deer for processing would have consequences if they called to check in. The second was a large metal rack that had long lengths of sausage and wiener links hanging from it…the smokey essence wafted through the air to greet me, along with a friendly smile, and handshake from Mike Maier, the owner.

It all began in 1990 in Elk Mound when Mike's grandfather owned a grocery store and meat market. He hired Mike and gave him lessons for cutting and processing meats. Mike said, "I have a gift for cutting and processing meat, because it all came fast and naturally." Mike purchased the business; the grocery store eventually closed, and he focused on meat processing and sales. In 2005 due to a lease issue, the business was moved to the west side of Eau Claire where it is today. It was an unplanned quick move with Mike's own construction contacts making the modifications to the new location. Soon all the equipment, freezers, and coolers were moved and nestled in.

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