Eric Gallery

Chief Culinarian & Proprietor

Eric, the heart and soul of Chop Block Grill, has loved cooking since he was just seven years old. From early on, he valued the connections made over meals, bringing friends and family together for dinners and holiday feasts. These traditions became a cornerstone of his life and fueled his dream of owning his own restaurant.

In 2017, Eric began turning that dream into reality. While Chop Block Grill was under construction, he launched Broad Street Market, setting the stage for a unique dining experience. On September 6th, 2019, Chop Block Grill opened its doors, marking an exciting new chapter for Eric and the local food scene.

Eric takes pride in every dish, offering a made-to-order menu with only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. His dedication to excellence ensures each guest enjoys a meal made with care and skill. For him, food is more than nourishment—it’s a way to create memories and bring people together.

Part of Eric’s vision was to create a space unlike other restaurants—inviting, intimate, and perfect for date nights, business meetings, or gatherings with friends. Choosing an off-the-beaten-path location allowed the restaurant’s reputation to grow through word-of-mouth while the team focused on top-notch guest experiences.

At Chop Block Grill, guests are encouraged to relax, enjoy appetizers and drinks, and truly savor their time. Eric’s philosophy is all about making each person feel welcome and unhurried, turning every visit into a memorable occasion.

Through his passion, creativity, and commitment to quality, Eric has built a restaurant that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings people together.

Todd Smith

Director of Operations & Proprietor

Todd’s vision and dedication have been key to the restaurant’s growth and success. Respected by peers and colleagues, he’s known for his professionalism and commitment to excellence in hospitality. From the early days of Chop Block Grill, Todd played a pivotal role in bringing the concept to life, paying close attention to details and understanding exactly what it takes to launch a thriving dining spot. His hands-on approach at every stage helped shape the restaurant’s identity and standards. Beyond managing daily operations, Todd worked closely with architects and contractors to create a space that was both functional and full of character. He also navigated the complex world of permits and licensing, ensuring everything was done right and setting the business up for long-term success. With a strong background in management, Todd’s partnership with Eric has blended their strengths to boost the restaurant’s reputation and performance. Together, they’ve built a culture that embraces both innovation and tradition. As Director of Operations, Todd drives the financial health of the restaurant.

Chanel motley

General Manager

Since Chop Block Grill opened in 2019, Chanel has been at the heart of its growth and success. Her dedication, charisma, and expertise have not only helped build the brand but also shaped the one-of-a-kind guest experience the restaurant is known for. Starting as a server, she quickly stood out for her exceptional hospitality, earning a loyal following of guests who often requested her tables. Her warm welcome and knack for creating memorable moments set the tone for the restaurant’s stellar reputation. With a refined palate and deep wine knowledge, Chanel excels at pairings, tastings, and crafting mixed drinks that elevate the dining experience. Her recommendations are a favorite among regulars and first-time visitors alike. Beyond hospitality, she plays a key role in menu planning and recipe development, collaborating with the culinary team to keep the menu aligned with the restaurant’s vision of quality, innovation, and consistency. Rising through the ranks to Hospitality Manager,

Maîtresse D, Culinary Innovator, and General Manager, Her smart, clear, and expert leadership keeps the team motivated and fosters the positive, collaborative environment that helps Chop Block Grill thrive.

Judy Ward

Senior Operations Manager

Judy Ward has been a key part of Chop Block Grill’s success story and now serves as Senior Operations Manager. Known for her dedication, expertise, and integrity, she’s a trusted leader who embodies the restaurant’s vision. Her impact is felt by staff, business partners, and the community, thanks to her commitment to excellence in every area of operations.

Her journey with Chop Block Grill began on opening day, September 6, 2019. From day one, she brought valuable kitchen management experience, quickly proving herself as dependable and resourceful. Her eye for detail, ability to handle pressure, and strong work ethic set the tone for the team and helped establish high operational standards, teamwork, and a smooth launch.

In 2021, Judy’s skills and initiative earned her a promotion to Kitchen Manager. She optimized processes, maintained top quality, and inspired her team to deliver great dining experiences. Her leadership improved efficiency, boosted morale, and earned the trust of colleagues and management alike.

By 2023, Judy’s reliability and integrity led to another promotion, this time to Facilities Manager. She took on broader responsibilities, overseeing maintenance, safety, and compliance to ensure a safe, welcoming space for guests and staff. Her careful oversight and open communication built confidence and trust throughout the restaurant.

Todd Oates

Back of House Manager

Since joining Chop Block Grill in October 2019, Todd Oates has been an essential part of the team’s success. With solid kitchen know-how and strong management skills, he quickly became a key player in daytime operations. His broad culinary background allows him to manage inventory, expedite orders, handle cooking, and support his crew with ease, all while fostering a collaborative, productive vibe. Day to day, Todd crafts made-to-order dishes, homemade sauces, and fresh dressings from scratch, keeping flavors consistent and customers happy. In 2022, he was promoted to Back of House Manager, overseeing all daytime kitchen operations, managing inventory, coordinating meal service, and helping staff grow. By 2024, he earned his Food Manager Certificate, highlighting his commitment to food safety and cleanliness. In 2025, he added Crowd Specialist to his role after earning his Crowd Management Certificate, boosting his expertise in fire safety and crowd control. Known for his integrity, reliability, and steady leadership, Todd continues to raise the bar at Chop Block Grill, showing dedication to both excellence and guest safety.