Massachusetts' Iconic Roast Beef 1000 Sandwich

A Unique Culinary Experience at Cutty's

Massachusetts residents are no strangers to the state's vibrant food scene, which is home to a wide array of exceptional restaurants. Among these, George’s Coney Island stands out as a long-standing favorite for its classic hot dogs. However, one particular spot in Brookline Village has carved out a unique place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike: Cutty's. This restaurant is famous for its signature Roast Beef 1000 sandwich, a dish that has become a local legend.

The Roast Beef 1000 is a standout on Cutty's menu, featuring roast beef, Thousand Island dressing, shallots, and cheddar cheese served on toasted brioche bread. What makes this sandwich so special is not just the ingredients but also the way they come together to create a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying. It's not only a beloved item at Cutty's but also the restaurant's top-selling menu item, contributing significantly to its success. The popularity of the Roast Beef 1000 even inspired the creation of the Turkey 1000, a similar sandwich made with turkey instead of roast beef.

For those who live outside of Massachusetts and are eager to try the Roast Beef 1000, it's possible to recreate the dish at home. The key to success lies in the quality of the meat. Rather than using canned roast beef, it's recommended to use high-quality deli roast beef or even make it from scratch if time allows. Thinly slicing the roast beef and frying the shallots will add an extra layer of texture and flavor. Still, there's something special about experiencing the sandwich in person, especially when it comes to supporting a local business and enjoying the authentic taste of Cutty's.

More Than Just a Sandwich

While the Roast Beef 1000 is undoubtedly a highlight, Cutty's offers much more than just one dish. The restaurant may not be the oldest in the world, having opened in 2010, but it has quickly built a reputation for excellence. Founded by Rachel and Charles Kelsey, professional chefs who trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Cutty's was born out of a simple desire to enjoy great sandwiches. As Charles shared, "We wanted to just eat tasty sandwiches, and we thought it was a good idea to start making them ourselves. And I feel like, we've created so much tasty stuff that other people get to enjoy as well."

The menu at Cutty's features a variety of creative and flavorful options beyond the Roast Beef 1000. These include the Turkey 1000, a bacon sandwich with spicy mayo and Swiss chard, and a pressed sandwich that combines broccoli rabe with mozzarella, provolone, and tomato jam. Each dish has received praise from customers and even from celebrity chef Guy Fieri during his visit on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives."

Navigating Challenges and Evolving with Time

Like many businesses, Cutty's faced significant challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. The restaurant had to shift to a takeout-only model, but it remained resilient. In 2025, Cutty's reopened its doors for in-person dining, marking a new chapter for the business. Around the same time, the Kelseys collaborated with artist Tara Lewis, incorporating her artwork into the restaurant's design and introducing a new menu item called the TLC. This partnership also led to the release of merchandise, celebrating the collaboration and the restaurant's continued growth.

Today, Cutty's remains a family-run operation, with Rachel and Charles Kelsey still actively involved in cooking and serving their famous sandwiches. Their dedication to quality and innovation continues to attract both new customers and longtime fans, ensuring that Cutty's remains a beloved destination for anyone looking for a delicious meal in Brookline Village.