The Alternative Press

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ - It all began in 1939 when John Losavio, a first generation Italian American from Brooklyn, purchased the space that was then Morris Meat Market for $2,000. 

In the wake of the Great Depression, how did a former butcher’s apprentice create the backdrop of what is now  an iconic landmark of a business that has survived over 70 years and drawn the respect and attention of countless carnivores throughout the tri-state and beyond? 

According to Vincent Losavio Sr., the core principals of their longevity and business success have been formed on two principals taught to him by their father, “offer the best quality prime meat and treat your customers like family.”  These are the founding ethos on which three generations of Losavios  has earned them,  among other accolades,  the title of “Best Butcher” in NJ Monthly for two consecutive years in 2011 and 2012.

 But it’s so much more than that.  It’s, well… “Witchcraft” or some other Frank Sinatra tune beckoning from the outside speakers as you pass by, and the back hall photos of “Mr. T” serving as a fantastic reminder of the 1980’s in all its decadence. 

 Inside John’s Meat Market ,  you’ll find many even older photographs telling the story of the town as it once was, alongside an undiluted family history that spans decades well before modern technology made documenting our every move feasible and somehow maybe not as special.     

 It’s hard to imagine there was ever a time when horse drawn carts carried live chickens for sale and trolley cars delivered guests to the Stage House across the street.  Park Avenue beverages stood in its original place on the corner from John’s Meat Market and the first ever three register Shoprite opened right on Park Avenue in  Scotch Plains. 

 Back in those days, many carpenters and masons were out of work and families were generally larger with 4 or 5 kids to feed, so meat wasn’t a priority.  At that time, John’s Meat Market offered liver and kidneys to families who needed it to stave off iron deficiency.   Years later, John’s Meat Market donated food to Nino’s in Manhattan to help feed the 9-11 World Trade Center recovery volunteers.  

Today, Vincent Losavio Jr. has introduced new best sellers like turkey chili, chicken pot pie and authentic culinary inspired barbeque sauces and specialty rubs from the girls at the Savory Spice Shop in Westfield.  

With the same will that wooed a Julliard trained opera diva to marry him, the late John Losavio worked 18 hour days for many, many years and left a great family legacy and a proud landmark on the map of Scotch Plains.

Where else can you go today but John’s Meat Market, and still get seduced by reminders of all the best indulgences in life like Frank Sinatra, single malt scotch, Cuban cigars and the uncompromising real men who only eat prime meat?