Butcher's block

[Simon Patrice]

Hi, I'm looking for a place that would sell used butcher's block in montreal. I've drooled over the John Boos block they sell at Després Laporte but can't afford it just yet. So if anyone knows of such a place, I'd appreciate your help.

Thanks!

[Pots]

how much ya want to pay?

[Simon Patrice]

It all depends on the size and quality of the block. I'm pretty low-bufget right now though.

[Gabriel Lewis]

I am thinking that ethnic (particularly chinese) shops would be your friend in this respect. I can't recall anything specific at the moment, but I believe I've seen big circular chinese style butcher blocks for relatively cheap (20-50$) at an ethnic store or too. Think China, Thai Hour, Marche Hawaii, and another chinese grocer nearby out in St. Laurent.

I will keep my eye out for you and let you know if I see anything.

[riboflavinjoe]

expensive ones at that place on maisonneuve and drummond

[Daddy-A]

If John Boo's is as expensive in Montreal as it is in Vancouver, I totally understand why you want to give them a miss. Fact is, while Boos is really well made, it's extremely over-priced.

Some options:

1) IKEA. Believe it or not, you can get pretty good butcher blocks from the Swedes. They use rubber-wood rather than maple, but for the price they're a bargain. Buy 2 or 3.

2) Ask your local cabinet shop. I had my block custom made, and it cost less than $100 for a 2" thick board, 18" x 24" ... end grain maple.

A.

[Simon Patrice]

It sounds like a great bargain. I'll look at what I can get here. Thanks for the cue!

[jayt90]

Simon, I haven't looked at this board for a few days, but I would have to recommend Costco, at the moment, as they have a Rosco board made from end pieces (Quebec maple) for $38. I bought one of these a couple of years ago and it has been excellent. I also have a chinese round board, purchased years ago for $16, but it is subject to small splits, as is cut from a stump. It also leeches small amounts of red stain when cleaned. The maple board from end pieces is much better.

You may also find laminated bamboo boards in Chinese stores; they are a good value but thinner than most of us would like.