This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local shops that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we take you to Morscher’s Pork Store, where you can find real ‘Treasures of Ridgewood!’

Morscher’s Pork Store opened their doors in 1957 on Catalpa Avenue in the heart of Ridgewood, New York. Butcher shops, once prevalent in the area, have shuttered over the decades, but Morscher’s has persevered, serving multiple generations of local families.

“The secret to our success, I always say, is that we always give the people good value for their money. People work hard for their money,” said Herbert Morscher.

Herbert, known to regulars as Herbie, joined the family butcher shop in 1981. He speaks German, as does his business partner Siegfried Strahl, a native of Germany. A third partner, Peter Kotarowski, speaks Polish, and several languages are represented among the staff behind the counter. In fact, their website is also available in both German and Polish! “When the customer comes into the store, and they speak a certain language, you want the customer to feel comfortable,” Herbie said. “It’s important.”

Morscher’s Pork Store combines state-of-the-art meat processing with the meat-making traditions of old European butchery. Family recipes handed down through generations and specialties from Germany, Austria, and Eastern European countries guarantee a truly international and unique array of meat offerings. 

In addition to all freshly prepared meats and cold cuts, an array of European food specialties, including German cookies and baking products, Polish pickles, Yugoslavian jams, and Slovenian condiments, line the shelves. 

Morscher’s also offers catering services with delectable options such as whole roasted pig and vibrant cold-cut platters made with house-smoked and cured meats.

The shop is open Tuesday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm. You can reach the store at (718) 821-1040. Also, check out their Instagram and Facebook pages to keep an eye on new inventory, promotions, and events that carnivores all around the city will not want to miss.

So, if you’re looking for a cut above what you can find at your usual grocery store, head over to Morscher’s Pork Store and when you get there, tell them Broadway Stages sent you.