Husband and wife team Chris and Sarah Bilbra of Cleveland, have announced plans to open a craft butcher shop and deli in Ooltewah’s Cambridge Square neighborhood. Their space is under construction and an opening is slated for the late fall of this year.
Spek Artisan Meats will specialize in whole animal butchery using animals raised on small farm pastures located within a 150-mile radius from their boutique shop. The Bilbras also operate Neema Farms in Cleveland and have personal relationships with the region’s farming community that will be helping to source their proteins.
“The only way to ensure that you are getting the best quality meats is to know the source,” said Mr. Bilbra. “Fortunately we have long-standing relationships with the farm community here which will enable us to provide our customers with fresh products on a daily basis. Opening a craft butchery has been a goal of mine throughout my culinary career and Sarah and I are very excited to be introducing our concept to Ooltewah this fall.”
In addition to their selection of take home meats and other Artisan goods, the Bilbras will be offering a deli menu for eat-in and take-out patrons. Selections will include freshly made sandwiches, salads, sausages, cheeses, and assorted vegetables. The shop’s design will mirror that of traditional butcheries where patrons are encouraged to interact with the proprietors and visit frequently to find out what’s new to the display cases.
“Locally sourced food provided by local operators fits perfectly with our tenant family philosophy,” said Jim Cheney, Cambridge Square marketing director. “The Bilbras have a great vision in place and we eagerly anticipate their opening day.”