Welcome to the Block & Cleaver, central Ohio’s premier meat lovers destination. Butchery isn’t just a job, its an art form; unfortunately, that art form has mostly gone by the wayside. Gone are the days when families could stop into their local butcher shop, know their butcher by name, and order a fresh, local piece of meat to grill up that evening.
At the Block & Cleaver we’re here to change that! You’ll find fresh, wholesome, local meat and grocery products in addition to smiling faces when you enter our store. Specialty cuts, cooking advice, in depth meat science knowledge; we’re here to answer all your questions. We hope to bring back the glory of yesteryear, with a 21st century twist, to what was once a common and vital part of everyday lives: the local butcher.
Meet Our Staff
Jake Parkinson, Owner
Jake is a lifelong resident of Licking County, with strong ties to agriculture. Growing up on a beef farm, Jake quickly learned he had a passion for the ag industry. Participating in 4-H as well as regional and national livestock competitions helped to foster his knowledge, ethics and leadership skills.
Jake attended The Ohio State University, where he received his bachelors and masters in animal sciences with an emphasis in meat science. While attending university, Jake mistakenly entered the wrong class, intro to meat science. Being too nervous to leave during lecture he stayed, and subsequently enrolled in the class; as they say, the rest is history. During his time at college, Jake was a member of the universities meat judging team and subsequently coached the team, as well as performed numerous outreach events to increase knowledge about meat science and food safety. It only seemed natural after graduating to continue his journey and open a butcher shop in his hometown.
Steven McCallister, General Manager
Steven is an Indiana transplant, but already a proud Buckeye! Steven grew up in the heart of rural Indiana. He participated in 4-H and the Future Farmers of America which helped to broaden his knowledge and understanding of the agricultural field as well as shape his work ethics and leadership abilities.
Steven attended Western Governors University where he studied business. His professional background is diverse in food service and pharmaceutical industry experience, spanning nearly a decade. Steven’s proficiency in technology and performance innovation have already proven invaluable to the team.
