Knoche’s Legacy Lives On with Pop-Up Meat Markets in Madison


Last Updated On: January 30, 2025

Knoche’s Legacy Lives On with Pop-Up Meat Markets in Madison

Knoche’s Market, a beloved Madison staple since 1938, is back with a twist, bringing its famed meats to the community through pop-up markets after closing its original shop in 2022.

Known for top-quality cuts, Knoche’s now operates out of a tented setup in parking lots around Madison. While the venue has changed, the mission remains the same: serving the best meats with unmatched dedication to quality and tradition.

Andy Ziegler, owner of Athens Grill and now the driving force behind Knoche’s, said, “The pop-ups… they’re the idea that I had in order to get Knoche’s back to the retail market.”

When Knoche’s closed, Ziegler knew he had to keep its legacy alive, not just for the quality but also for its role in the local food scene.

“Steve and I built a relationship,” Ziegler shared, recalling conversations with Steve Knoche, “he was going to sell it, and I was like ‘awe man, that’s bad news for all of us at the restaurants who love the beef, love the name, and love the product!’”

Now, Ziegler oversees Knoche’s production from his restaurant’s USDA-approved facility, preparing up to 5,000 pounds of beef daily for wholesale and community markets.

The new setup is a hit among locals, offering everything from signature beef cuts to fresh turkeys in time for Thanksgiving, with preorders already underway.

Gregory Sainsbury, a 20-year Knoche’s customer, described the pop-ups as “fantastic” and stressed the loyalty they inspire.

He shared his commitment, saying, “I went to the bank and drew out money… and filled my bag with 100 dollars of Knoche food.”

These pop-up markets aren’t just about buying meat—they’re reviving a community tradition, rekindling the bond between Madison residents and their favorite butcher.

“I realized there was this hole in our community,” Ziegler explained, “where everybody would come… to buy meat and have this relationship with their butcher.”

The next market will be held on November 9 at Steve’s Liquor on University Ave, where customers can experience this lasting legacy firsthand.

Curious about Knoche’s return to Madison? Check out our homepage for stories on their pop-up markets and a taste of this local legacy.

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Timothy Woods
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Timothy Woods holds a Kinesiology and Exercise Science degree from Jacksonville University and is CCC & GMU Certified. He's also the main man behind Carnivore Style. This food aficionado combines science and experience to spread the word about the carnivore lifestyle.
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