by Myrek Zastavnyi
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer—and for many in the Hudson Valley, that means one thing: it’s time to fire up the grill. While barbecue traditions vary from region to region, there’s something deeply local—and proudly delicious—about preparing your meats with care, precision, and a little smoke.
At Sam’s Meat Warehouse, located right on Route 17A in the heart of Florida, New York, grilling and smoking isn’t just a holiday tradition—it’s a year-round passion. As a go-to destination for high-quality meats and expert advice, Sam’s has been helping home grillers and pitmasters alike elevate their backyard cooking game for years.
From the Butcher Block to the Backyard
“We always say the secret to great barbecue starts with great meat,” says Marcus, one of the front-line butchers at Sam’s Meat Warehouse. And when you walk into their shop, that philosophy is on full display. The butcher counter is a showcase of marbled ribeyes, thick-cut pork chops, spatchcocked chickens, fresh sausages, and brisket trimmed with just the right fat cap for low-and-slow smoking.
For Memorial Day, Sam’s recommends sticking to the classics—but giving them a twist.
“Instead of just burgers and dogs, try a bone-in ribeye or a marinated hanger steak,” Marcus suggests. “And if you have a smoker, a pork shoulder or a rack of ribs can really make your cookout unforgettable.”
Sam’s Top Memorial Day Grilling & Smoking Tips:
1. Start with the Right Cut
Whether you’re grilling over gas or charcoal, or smoking low and slow, start with the right cut of meat. Sam’s recommends:
- Beef: Plate Ribs, Picanha, tri-tip, or brisket
- Pork: Baby back ribs, bone-in chops, or pork butt
- Chicken: Whole spatchcocked birds or bone-in thighs
2. Know Your Temps
“Don’t cook by time—cook by temperature,” says the staff. Invest in a digital meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Chicken: 165°F
- Pork: 145°F (medium), 195–205°F (for pulled pork)
- Beef: 125°F (rare), 135°F (medium-rare), 145°F (medium)
3. Use the “Reverse Sear” for Steakhouse Results
If you’re cooking thick steaks (over 1.5”), try the reverse sear method. Smoke or slow-cook the steak indirectly until it’s about 10–15°F under your target temp, then sear it over high heat for a crusty finish.
4. Don’t Forget the Rub
Sam’s carries a variety of locally blended rubs and spice mixes, or you can mix your own with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and brown sugar. A dry rub creates the bark that pitmasters crave.
5. Rest Your Meat
Once your meat comes off the grill or smoker, let it rest. Resting allows juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist. Tent with foil for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
From the Hudson Valley, With Smoke
While Taxes and Kentucky may have mutton and burgoo, the Hudson Valley has its own rich traditions—rooted in family cookouts, local farms, and quality you can taste. And at the center of many of those tables is a rack of ribs or sizzling steak from Sam’s Meat Warehouse.
For those experimenting with smoking this Memorial Day, Sam’s offers expert advice on wood choices too.
- Apple and cherry wood bring a sweet, mild smoke perfect for poultry or pork.
- Hickory adds bold flavor for ribs and brisket.
- Oak offers balance for just about any meat.
A Community Staple
Sam’s Meat Warehouse isn’t just a butcher shop—it’s a gathering place for local food lovers, backyard chefs, and anyone looking to cook with confidence. They’ve built a reputation not just for freshness, but for friendliness.
We’re always happy to give advice,” says Stephen Kitar, a master butcher at Sam’s Meat Warehouse and host of the ‘Food for Thought’ radio program. “If you’re not sure how to cook it—whether it’s brisket, pork belly, or even a tomahawk steak—just ask. We’ll walk you through it step-by-step, from seasoning to finish.” Kitar’s passion for helping home cooks doesn’t end at the butcher counter. He shares recipes, grilling tips, and local food features every Thursday at 11 a.m. on WTBQ Radio, which can be heard locally at 93.5 FM or streamed online. “It’s all about demystifying good food and making it approachable for everyone,” he adds.
This Memorial Day, whether you’re honoring the holiday with a quiet dinner or a full-blown family barbecue, Sam’s Meat Warehouse is ready to help you make it memorable.
Sam’s Meat Warehouse
1749 Route 17A
Florida, NY 10921
(845) 651-6328
(845)651-MEAT
