Old-World Butcher Block

On the south side of the city I live in, there’s an Old-World grocery store that still sells a full line of products that come from the Italian cooking tradition. It’s a wonderful place to visit and purchase spices, pasta, and homemade sausage.

In the aisle just outside the meat counter is a butcher block table that I’m pretty sure is older than me. It’s been retired from the daily duties that a butcher requires, but could easily be called back into service at any time.

This butcher block table is built in the same spirit as that old butcher block that I saw in the store. This new version truly qualifies as an heirloom project. It will easily provide generations of service and assistance in any kitchen.

As you see in the photo on the next page, the top is made from 8/4 maple pieces that are dovetailed and laminated together to create the classic, thick end-grain top. It’s made to last for a very long time. There’s a lot of work that goes into making the top, but not to worry, there’s a method to the madness that keeps everything under control.

To add some interest and contrast to the project, the aprons and braces are made from