I don't eat a lot of meat, but when I do, I make sure it comes from a good source. Belcampo Meat Company is one of those good sources. They have their own farm in Mount Shasta, CA where they raise their own animals and allow them to roam freely and munch on what they were born to eat. Belcampo's farm is certified organic and they also operate their own processing facility so they control the process from start to finish.

Belcampo Meat Company started in Northern CA and then opened in downtown LA's Grand Central Market before arriving in Santa Monica last year. At both of their Southern CA locations, you can buy their quality meat to take home, or enjoy some food on site. The Santa Monica locations has a full sit down restaurant, whereas Grand Central Market you just belly up to the counter for a few choice burgers and menu items. 

The burgers are indeed a force to be reckoned with. First you need to keep in mind that these are grass-fed animals so the taste is going to be a little different. You could say gamier, but don't be scared off by that. They're not lacking in the flavor department. My friend ordered the Belcampo Cheeseburger and after we both tried it, we agreed that pretty much everything tastes better with caramelized onions on it. There's also a housemade quasi-Thousand Island dressing draped on top, in between the butter lettuce and bread bar brioche. And no good burger is served without fries. It's a quality burger and fries, CA style. I tried the lamb burger at their Grand Central Market location and think it might even be better.

I took a trip back to my French days and ordered the hand-chopped beef tartare with cornichon and capers. It hit all the right notes and was perfectly balanced, while also being gluten free!

You can also choose from short ribs, chops, steak and roast beef. It's a big beef-fest with most of the main cuts making a showing. There is some green on Belcampo's menu too. The kale and avocado salad may not look like much, but you can tell that the greens have been massaged as there's nice acidity and tenderness with a zingy vinaigrette.

If you need more meat or don't have the time to dine in, Belcampo Santa Monica has a well-stocked deli counter where you can find most cuts of meat, as well as great stock, beer, and prepared items.

When I do indulge in meat, Belcampo is a spot I trust. They've given some healthy competition to neighboring local butcher, A Cut Above, another good source for quality products.

Belcampo Santa Monica
1026 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica
424.744.8008