Eric, the heart and soul behind Chop Block Grill, has been passionate about cooking ever since he was just seven years old. From an early age, he cherished the meaningful connections forged around meals, bringing friends and family together for dinners and holiday feasts. These traditions became a cornerstone of his life, fueling a lifelong dream to own and operate his own restaurant.
In 2017, Eric set out to turn his dream into reality. While Chop Block Grill was being constructed, he launched Broad Street Market, laying the groundwork for what would become a truly special dining experience. On September 6th, 2019, Chop Block Grill opened its doors, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both Eric and the local culinary scene.
Eric takes immense pride in every dish served at Chop Block Grill, insisting on a made to order menu using only the finest and freshest ingredients. His commitment to quality sets the restaurant apart, ensuring that each guest enjoys a meal crafted with care and expertise. For Eric, the food is more than just sustenance—it's a way to create memories and foster connections.
One of Eric's core visions for Chop Block Grill was to offer an environment that stands apart from other restaurants. He envisioned a space that is both inviting and intimate, perfect for date nights, business meetings, or gatherings of friends seeking great conversation. The location was chosen to be off the beaten path, allowing word-of-mouth to spread the restaurant's reputation and letting the team focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
At Chop Block Grill, guests are encouraged to take their time, savor appetizers and drinks, and truly enjoy their visit. Eric's philosophy centers around making every customer feel welcome and unrushed, turning each meal into a memorable occasion.
Through his dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to quality, Eric has built a restaurant that not only delights the palate but also brings people together. Chop Block Grill is a reflection of his lifelong love for cooking and hospitality, and every guest who walks through the doors becomes a part of his cherished tradition.
Todd's visionary leadership and steadfast dedication have been central to the restaurant's growth and ongoing success. Widely respected among his peers and colleagues, Todd is recognized for his professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality.
From the earliest days of Chop Block Grill, Todd was instrumental in transforming the restaurant from concept to reality. His involvement was marked by a meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of what it takes to launch a successful dining establishment. Todd’s proactive engagement in every stage of development set the tone for the restaurant’s identity and operational standards.
Todd’s role extended far beyond traditional management tasks. He played a critical part in collaborating with architects and general contractors to ensure that the physical space reflected both functional requirements and the unique character of Chop Block Grill. Moreover, Todd navigated the complex landscape of regulatory compliance by working closely with agencies such as the Department of Business and Professional Regulations, the Division of Hotels and Restaurants, and the Division of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. His diligence in securing necessary approvals and liquor licensing underscored his commitment to operating above board and setting the restaurant up for long-term, sustainable success.
Todd’s leadership at Chop Block Grill is grounded in a robust background in management. Prior to his current role, he honed his skills in various capacities equipping him with the expertise to navigate the dynamic challenges of restaurant operations. His partnership with Eric has been particularly impactful, blending complementary strengths that have elevated the restaurant’s reputation and operational performance. Together, they have fostered a collaborative culture that values both innovation and tradition.
As Director of Operations, Todd is the driving force behind the restaurant’s financial health and day-to-day efficiency. He skillfully balances financial needs, ensuring that budgets are met without compromising on quality. Todd is also responsible for managing the restaurant’s facilities, overseeing maintenance, and implementing procedures that promote safety and reliability. His vigilance in upholding regulatory compliance guarantees that Chop Block Grill consistently meets industry standards, while his operational oversight ensures that every guest enjoys a seamless dining experience.
Todd’s ongoing impact at Chop Block Grill is reflected in the restaurant’s continued growth and esteemed reputation. His multifaceted leadership (spanning inception, regulatory navigation, financial stewardship, and operational excellence) serves as a model for restaurant professionals and aspiring proprietors alike. Todd’s dedication and forward-thinking approach ensure that Chop Block Grill not only thrives today but is also well-positioned for future success.
Since the opening of Chop Block Grill in 2019, Chanel Motley has been a cornerstone of the restaurant's growth and success. Her unwavering commitment, natural charisma, and deep expertise have not only helped build the brand but also shaped the unique guest experience Chop Block Grill is known for.
Chanel began her journey at Chop Block Grill as a server, quickly distinguishing herself through her exceptional hospitality skills. Guests frequently requested to be seated at her tables, and she soon developed a dedicated following. Chanel’s approach to welcoming guests and creating memorable experiences was instrumental in establishing the restaurant’s reputation for outstanding customer service.
With a refined palate and extensive knowledge of wines, Chanel is highly proficient in wine pairings and tastings. Her talent extends to creating mixed drinks and pairing wines with various culinary offerings, enhancing the overall dining experience. Chanel’s recommendations have become a highlight for regular patrons and newcomers alike, making each visit to Chop Block Grill a unique and delightful journey.
Beyond her role in hospitality, Chanel plays a pivotal part in menu planning and recipe development. She collaborates closely with the culinary team to ensure that the menu reflects the restaurant’s core philosophies and goals. Chanel’s input helps maintain Chop Block Grill’s commitment to quality, innovation, and consistency, ensuring that the restaurant remains true to its vision.
Chanel has advanced from her initial position as a server to multiple roles as Chop Block Grill’s Hospitality Manager, Maîtresse D, and Culinary Innovator through consistent dedication and hard work. Due to demand for Chanel's call parties, she continues to serve her loyal guests. Her leadership is distinguished by intelligence, clarity, and comprehensive expertise in the hospitality industry. Chanel's capacity to motivate and direct her team has played a vital role in cultivating a positive and cooperative workplace.
Chanel Motley’s journey at Chop Block Grill stands as a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and expertise. Her influence is felt in every aspect of the restaurant, from guest relations to menu innovation. Chanel continues to be a driving force behind Chop Block Grill’s success, ensuring that the restaurant remains a beloved destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
As Chop Block Grill moves forward, Chanel’s vision and leadership will undoubtedly continue to shape its future. Her story is one of growth, dedication, and excellence, all qualities that make her an invaluable member of the Chop Block Grill family.
Rochelle Archambo stands as an integral part of the Chop Block Grill team, enriching our restaurant with her exceptional culinary skills and vibrant spirit. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Rochelle brings a unique blend of cultural influences and professional expertise to our kitchen, making her a cherished member of our staff.
Rochelle is a professionally trained chef whose dedication to the culinary arts is evident in every dish she creates. Her background in both pastry and savory cuisine allows her to contribute to a wide array of menu offerings. With a meticulous approach and a passion for innovation, Rochelle's talents span across multiple disciplines in the kitchen.
At Chop Block Grill, Rochelle is best known for the delectable desserts that delight our guest's night after night. Her mastery of pastry shines through in every sweet treat, from classic favorites to inventive new creations.
Joining Chop Block Grill October 25, 2024, Rochelle quickly established herself as a pillar of our culinary team. Her dedication, creativity, and leadership have helped elevate the quality and reputation of our restaurant. Whether she is perfecting pastries, preparing savory entrees, or mentoring fellow staff, Rochelle’s contributions are vital to our success.
Rochelle Archambo embodies the heart and soul of Chop Block Grill’s kitchen. Her Dominican heritage, professional training, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a true asset to our team and a key reason our guests return time and again to enjoy our food. We are proud to celebrate Rochelle’s achievements and grateful for her continued impact on our restaurant.
Jami began her professional journey with Chop Block Grill on January 28, 2020. From the outset, she distinguished herself through an unwavering dedication and commitment to guest relations. Her ability to connect with guests and maintain a high standard of service quickly set her apart as a leader among her peers.
As the mother of four, Jami brings a nurturing and compassionate approach to her role, fostering a supportive and encouraging environment for both staff and guests. Her family life deeply informs her management style, blending empathy and understanding with her drive for excellence.
After the COVID-19 shutdown, Jami returned to work with renewed determination. Her strong service qualities and leadership skills became even more evident during this challenging time. Her resilience and positive influence helped the restaurant adapt to new circumstances and positioned her as an integral part of the team.
Jami was promoted to Front of House Manager in 2023 for recognition of her outstanding capabilities. In this capacity, she provides professional and attentive leadership to her team, overseeing all facets of employee relations within the front-of-house operations. She serves as a key contact for guest relations, addressing concerns and resolving issues with efficiency and care. Additionally, she continues to work as a server, further supporting her staff.
Jami is instrumental in overseeing the restaurant’s technical and point of sale (POS) system. Her in-depth knowledge ensures that the system is always up to date, and she takes responsibility for training all front-of-house employees on updates and new features. Her attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence help maintain smooth restaurant operations.
Jami is highly focused on maintaining the restaurant’s culinary vision through the enforcement of strict quality control guidelines. She is uncompromising in her standards, ensuring that every aspect of service and cuisine aligns with Chop Block Grill’s commitment to excellence. Her vigilance guarantees that quality remains at the forefront, and that both staff and guests experience the very best the restaurant has to offer.
Above all, Jami is dedicated to making guest satisfaction her top priority. She ensures that all necessary duties are completed efficiently and with a focus on providing the best possible experience for every guest. Her leadership, expertise, and passion for service continue to make a significant impact at Chop Block Grill.