If you have ever spent time in a professional kitchen or watched a cooking show, chances are you have seen a John Boos cutting board. These boards have been trusted by chefs, home cooks, and food lovers for generations. Known for their strength, beauty, and craftsmanship, John Boos cutting boards are often considered some of the best in the world.
A Long History of Craftsmanship
John Boos & Co. began in 1887 in Effingham, Illinois. What started as a small workshop making butcher blocks has grown into a well-known brand in the culinary world. For over 130 years, they have been producing cutting boards, butcher blocks, and kitchen furniture, all made in the USA. Their long history shows a commitment to quality and tradition.
Materials That Make the Difference
One of the reasons John Boos boards stand out is the quality of the wood. They are made from premium hardwoods like maple, walnut, and cherry.
- Maple is light in color and extremely durable.
- Walnut has a deep, rich color and adds elegance to any kitchen.
- Cherry offers a warm reddish tone that darkens beautifully over time.
These hardwoods are not only strong but also gentle on knife blades. A good wooden board will help keep your knives sharp longer compared to harder surfaces like glass or ceramic.
Types of John Boos Cutting Boards
John Boos makes several styles to suit different needs:
- Edge-Grain Boards – These boards are made by joining strips of wood with the grain running along the length of the board. They are sturdy, lighter than end-grain, and usually less expensive.
- End-Grain Boards – These show the ends of the wood fibers on the surface. End-grain boards are heavier and more resistant to knife marks. The “self-healing” nature of the wood fibers means they last longer and are gentler on knives.
- Reversible Boards – Many John Boos boards are double-sided. One side might have a juice groove for meats, while the other is flat for vegetables and bread.
- Specialty Boards – Some boards come with handles, built-in trays, or rustic natural edges, making them both functional and attractive for serving.
Why Chefs Love Them
Professional chefs often choose John Boos for several reasons:
- Durability – With proper care, these boards can last for decades.
- Knife-Friendliness – They don’t dull knives quickly.
- Size Options – From small boards for everyday prep to large butcher blocks for serious chopping, there’s a size for every kitchen.
- Appearance – The natural wood grain looks beautiful and can also be used as a serving board.
Many famous chefs, including Ina Garten and Rachael Ray, have been seen using John Boos boards on their cooking shows.
Caring for a John Boos Cutting Board
While John Boos cutting boards are strong, they do require some care to keep them in good condition:
- Hand Wash Only – Never put a wooden board in the dishwasher. Use warm water and mild soap, then dry immediately.
- Oil Regularly – Applying food-safe mineral oil every few weeks helps prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.
- Avoid Soaking – Prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood.
- Sanitize Safely – To disinfect, wipe the board with a mixture of vinegar and water, or sprinkle coarse salt and scrub with half a lemon.
By following these simple steps, your John Boos board can remain in great shape for many years.
Sustainability
John Boos also focuses on responsible production. They source wood from North American forests that are managed for sustainability, and they make efforts to use wood scraps and sawdust to reduce waste. This means when you buy a John Boos board, you’re also supporting eco-friendly practices.
Choosing the Right Board
If you are looking for your first John Boos board, consider how you will use it:
- Daily Cooking – An edge-grain maple board around 18″ x 12″ is a great all-purpose choice.
- Heavy Chopping or Butchering – A thick end-grain block will handle large cuts of meat and frequent use.
- Serving & Presentation – Walnut or cherry boards with natural edges can double as serving platters.
- Small Spaces – The lightweight Chop-N-Slice series is easy to move and store.
Investment Worth Making
While John Boos cutting boards are more expensive than many mass-produced boards, they are truly an investment. With proper care, they can last for decades and even be passed down to the next generation. They are not just tools—they become part of your kitchen’s story.
Final Thoughts
A John Boos cutting board is more than just a surface for chopping vegetables or slicing meat. It is a piece of craftsmanship, built with care and tradition, designed to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook who loves to prepare meals from scratch, owning a John Boos board brings a touch of quality and heritage to your kitchen.
If you take good care of it, your John Boos cutting board will serve you faithfully for many years—becoming a trusted partner in all your cooking adventures.