FINANCIAL DISTRICT — A sandwich shop focusing on freshly roasted ingredients has opened Downtown.
The Chopping Block, at 41 John St., uses mostly organic meats and vegetables in its "expertly crafted" sandwiches, made with with Balthazar Bakery bread, said Peter Voutsinas, co-owner of the restaurant.
“Roasting really adds a special flavor,” said Voutsinas, 34. “Fresh ingredients, interesting combinations and some roasting really works.”
The six meal options, which range from $9.50 to $12, can be served “between two pieces of bread or over a bed of baby mixed greens,” according to the shop’s website.
Menu choices include the “Roast Beast,” a sandwich or salad made with slow-roasted beef, fresh grated horseradish root dressing, cheddar cheese, tomato, pickled red onion and cilantro, for $12.
There’s also the “Naughty Ham & Swiss,” which comes with Applewood smoked farm-cured ham, Swiss cheese, tomato, cilantro and spicy chipotle dressing, for $10.
Chopping Block, which opened in December, also offers artisanal coffee from Coffee Lab Roasters, a selection of freshly baked sweets and a variety of daily specials.
This is the first restaurant for Voutsinas and his two brothers, the chefs at the eatery. His brother Chris Voutsinas previously worked at chef Daniel Boulud’s Bar Boulud.
The siblings, who live in Astoria, grew up in Jamaica, Queens — but see Downtown as a hot spot for their business.
“We think this neighborhood is going to continue to grow, and we wanted to be a part of that,” Voutsinas said. “There’s great potential here and we just want to make the best food we can.”
Chopping Block, at 41 John St., is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
