Happy 70th Anniversary John’s Meat Market!

By Millicent K. Brody

Located in Scotch Plains, John’s Meat Market has the distinction of being one of the oldest butcher shops in New Jersey. Currently owned by Vinnie and Nick Losavio, their father John began his thriving business seventy years ago.

At the age of 17, the late John Losavio began working at Morris' Meat Market in Plainfield. Using his trusty bicycle, he'd fill the basket, then pedal his way through the neighborhood. Not long afterwards, Morris Valenski, the owner of the butcher shop, invited John to head a new shop he was opening in Scotch Plains. Two years later, he offered Losavio a golden opportunity: he asked him to buy the business.

Armed with a lucky $50 bill from Valenski, John Losavio opened the doors to John's Meat Market on April 17, 1939.


Today, as always, customers at John’s Meat Market are treated to their favorite cuts of prime beef. From New York strip sirloin steaks, to veal chops on the bone, standing rib roasts, rack of lamb, filet mignons, and delivered-fresh poultry from Pennsylvania. You can also order a variety of side dishes. Try the spinach soufflé, pasta e fagioli, turkey chili, lobster bisque, Italian wedding soup, and individual or family size servings of chicken pot pie.

“We’re ready for the barbecue season,” adds Nick. “Along with our burgers, try our fall-off-the bone spare ribs, house-prepared hot dogs, and kielbasa. We’re happy to offer recipes for whatever you’re planning to serve.”

“Nothing’s changed,” continues Vinnie Losavio. “We use the same purveyors as the famous Peter Luger’s in Brooklyn. Our beef comes from the Weichsel Beef Co.”

To celebrate their 70th anniversary, the staff at John’s Meat Market is inviting the public to join them for a wine and cheese reception, Saturday, April 18. The Clusters of Brooklyn, a 50’s band, will provide entertainment. While there, take advantage of special celebratory prices and fill your freezer.

Working alongside Vinnie and Nick, are Chef Vincent Jr., Charlie Bauman from the former J & M Market in Mountainside, Robert Ruiz from O’Connors Meat Market, Watchung, Stan Kaufman, from Joseph’s Meat Market North Plainfield, and Paul Sincavage from Balducci’s Market in New York City.

John’s Meat Market, 389 Park Ave., Scotch Plains: (908) 322-7126. johnsmarket.com