I had asked my husband what he wanted to do for his birthday this year.  I was thinking “Hall’s Chophouse”, “The Grocery” or some other very nice restaurant that we frequent.  Imagine my surprise when his meal of choice was at Ted’s Butcherblock in Ansonborough Square.

Ted’s Butcherblock is a neighborhood butcher shop and gourmet market.  I honestly had never heard of it but was very interested in attending “Ted Fest” this past weekend. This Locals Block Party is held once a year.  During this event they serve a rare, Acorn-fed Berkshire Hog from Eden Farms.  So off we went to our newest adventure.

Ted's New Food Truck

Tucked away in Ansonborough Square Ted’s Butcherblock is without question off the beaten path, but incredibly worth the trip.  When we pulled up there was a band playing (The Bushels) and a few tables outside.  They were also debuting their food truck which was strategically parked in front of the event.  And there, in all its acorn-fed glory lay the Eden Farms hog, head and all.

We went inside and I have to admit I was surprised at the quality and quantity of things that they offer. Part butcher shop and part market they offer a variety of imported cheeses, sandwiches and meats.  They even offer 11 varieties of bacon, and who doesn’t like bacon???

Bacon, Bacon and more bacon

We ordered our meals ($14.99) and had to go out to the food truck to pick them up.  Smart advertising.  We probably would not have paid much attention to the new food truck otherwise.  While my husband went to retrieve our lunch (the event was from 1:00 – 5:00) I went over to discover some of the local craft beers that were being featured. Unfortunately the music was a bit loud and I could not hear the name of the brewery, but I do know that I ordered a terrific IPA. 

Although there was seating outside we went back in to grab some seats.  There was a great energy in the shop.  Some folks were enjoying the sandwiches that they offered and others, like us were enjoying the “fest”.  Still others were purchasing meats, quite the assortment of activities this overcast Saturday afternoon.

Acorn fed Berkshire Pork with all the trimmings

Without question our lunch was off the hook! The pork was tender, juicy and served with an optional pesto, which was delicious.  It was presented as a true porchetta and served with sides of rapini and panzanella salad.

The rapini was sautéed lightly with garlic and oil and was exquisite. Only to be surpassed by the panzanella salad. This was simply so fresh. Three types of tomatoes, black olives, cucumbers and a bit of dressing.  I felt very lucky that we arrived when we did (about 2:30) as the panzanella was substituted for something else later in the day – lucky us!

Ted’s Butcherblock is my new favorite place.  I can’t wait to go back and try some of their sandwiches, salads, paninis, soups and and meat offerings. Did I mention they sell “meat” gift baskets and a bacon subscription?  With 11 varieties of bacon I guess you have to…

All in a great experience that I highly recommend. Mark your calendars for March of 2014.


We gave TedFest 5 out of a possible 5 plates.