Ex-Drake chef Anthony Rose unveils his new venture (and a killer BLT sandwich)

The Junction Flea returned yesterday and with it came Anthony Rose. The former Drake Hotel head chef was there to chat about his upcoming restaurant ventures (yes, that's plural) and draw hungry crowds for his succulent braised pork BLT. Accompanying him was a random selection of knives, box graters, graffiti art and postcards (by Phresha and Jeff Blackburn) all for sale in true flea market style.

Engaging and affable as ever, Rose regaled me on his detailed post Drake plans which will see him launch several unique (permanent) restaurants all offering varying culinary styles under the Rose and Sons moniker.

With co-chef David Chang on sandwich assembly duty, sandwiches were made to order for the noshing crowd of Junction-ites. At $7 a pop, the price point of the sandwich was definitely in the gourmet category, but understandably so, considering the primo ingredients. Braised pork was marinated for hours and lovingly finished off with garlic shoots, resting atop a soft white roll that was smothered in parsley dill aioli with lettuce, tomato and pickle and scandalously salty feta. The bacon was super tender and slightly sweet, it almost melted into the fluffy white bun.

Look for the newest venture from Anthony Rose (hopefully) kicking into gear early this fall.