Beast & Cleaver launches fundraiser to help open new butchery

The man behind Ballard’s soon-to-open Beast & Cleaver butchery is asking for some community support to help get his business up and running.

Englishman-turned-Ballardite Kevin Smith has been working for four years to develop his neighborhood butchery, and he’s in the home stretch. But, because he’s opening it with no investors, Smith says he’s running short on funds to finish transforming the former hair salon into a butchery and restaurant at 2362 NW 80th St.

“Our budget has always been fragile, so we have put together a crowdfunding campaign,” Smith says.

Smith’s Indiegogo campaign has raised $4,880 of its $30,000 goal, with 58 days left. The perks for backers are all butchery-related, with products, classes, meals and experiences for those who donate.

Among the perks: a monthly CSA-style butcher’s box, butcher classes, exclusive dinners for 10 guests, and even the opportunity to create your own signature sausage, which will go on the menu.

“We are working to create a place for all Ballard and Seattle residents to buy locally raised and sustainable meats by sourcing over 90% of our meats from Washington, and a select few from a little further afield,” Smith says.