Just in time for summer barbecue season, Rod’s Quality Meat has opened in downtown Redmond.

May 11 marked the culmination of owner Rodney Klann’s long time dream of owning a butcher shop. Klann, who has been a meat cutter for more than 45 years, said that butchering and selling high-quality meat is “pretty much my passion.”

“I worked at Fred Meyer for the last 25 years, but I’ve always wanted my own business,” Klann said. “I got real serious about it the last couple of years.”

Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, Rod’s Quality Meats is located at 323 NW 6th St.

When coming in, customers will be greeted by either Klann or one other employee and can expect to find a variety of fresh, frozen and specialty meats. All meat offered is local to the Northwest, said Klann.

Also available for purchase are sauces, seasonings and Bend-made Grumpy Gramps Baked Beans. Klann said hope to bring more local products into his shop and continue to add inventory.

For first time customers, Klann often their housemade sausage and or beef steaks, which Klann said he chooses and cuts to perfecting.

Klann said he thinks there’s a need in Redmond for quality products combined with good, fast customer service.

“I think it’s time for a local butcher shop that offers fresh cut meats — sells it fresh, not frozen,” Klann said. “And then a place where they can get specialty items for the person that’s on the go.”