Ochs butcher shop leaves Reading Terminal Market
After months of speculation, the Harry G. Ochs & Sons butcher shop has left Reading Terminal Market.
On Monday night, owner Nicholas Ochs pulled up stakes without notifying the Reading Terminal management.
The departure came after a dispute between Ochs and the market’s management. In February, the market sued the butcher shop for falling behind on rent.
Patrons of the butcher shop were saddened by its closing.
“I don’t eat red meat very often, but when I wanted to indulge in some lamb or whatever for a special occasion, I would always get it here,” said one customer. “And I’m sorry to see it gone.
“I think, you know, for an institution like this to fail, is upsetting for everybody,” said another. “We really like to see the traditions continue, as well as new things. But traditions are very important, especially in a city like Philadelphia.”
The shop opened in 1906. It gained popularity when Nicholas Ochs’ father, Harry Ochs, took over in 1947.
As for the butcher, Ochs will take over as head butcher at Main Street Market in Manayunk.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.