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Best Cheese Board
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Accessories
Bonus accessories will help busy hosts keep organized
We were drawn to designs that offered additional tools, because it makes the job of the host just that much easier- plus it will really impress your guests. One of our favorite accessories that we found was a set of various knives and forks that were built right into the base of the unit. This clever design makes it so that users will always have a matching knife set that won’t become lost in messy kitchen utensil drawers. We also liked options such as ceramic condiment bowls as well as small cocktail forks for easy serving. One feature that many hosts often forget about are food markers that can label the different types of food on the tray that may not be recognizable simply by looks alone. All these little details can take a good platter and make it truly spectacular. Be sure that when selecting products that come with additional items that you ensure that they are made from high quality materials. We liked products that used stainless steel because they were sharp and also won’t rust over time. It’s important to ensure that these accessories are made from high quality materials, because some brands like a scrimp on the extra features, utimaltey leaving users disappointed.
Features
Design features in the wood make it easier for hosts to make a show stopping platter
When you are selecting a platter that is going to be on display front and center on your dinner table, design features that are both practical and functional are a must. One feature that users really like is the grooves in the wood that run along the edges to hold crackers. These grooves serve two functions- to provide a place for crunchy treats, and to also catch and excess liquids from dripping down onto your table. Another feature that we also liked was platters that came with a drawer to store extra knives and utensils. Additional cuts into the wood to place condiment bowls were another feature that we kept our eyes on. Depending on the size of party that you are planning on hosting, the size of the platter is something that you may also want to consider as well. Some on the smaller round designs are great for smaller get togethers, and the options that are over about 12 inches are perfect for larger parties. The VonShef Jigsaw option is the best of both worlds. It is able to pieces together to form one large tray for a big party, or broken into smaller sizes for smaller parties.
Materials
The right materials will help bring out the most in your arrangement, and will also be easier to clean
This is one of the more important things that we considered, because poor quality of materials can really affect the quality of the food that you are presenting. Users will want to select materials that are going to be soft enough that will keep their knives sharp, even with extended use, and will be easy to clean. The last thing that you want if a surface that will hold on to odors and flavors when dealing with potent foods such as olives, cured meats, and especially cheese. What we discovered is that bamboo was the choice material when it comes to these products. It is considered to be soft enough that it won’t damage knives, but hard enough that it won’t hold on to odors and stains. It may require a little bit of maintenance when it comes to cleaning and oiling it down, but users find that it well worth the cost. The best part about bamboo is that it is a quickly renewable resource because it grows much more quickly than traditional trees. Slate was another great material that we considered because it requires very little cleaning and maintenance. Slate is great because it isn’t porous and will not hold on to any odors, and cleaning it consists of wiping it down with a damp cloth.
Size
Finding the right size for your specific event is an important thing to consider
Size was something that we considered because we wanted to provide a good variety of sizes that will accommodate various types of parties. An important part of making an appetizing platter is to ensure that it is filled to the brim. If you have open spaces, it takes away from its appeal. If you are hosting for a smaller gathering, you will want to use a smaller option. From what we could gather, the average size of these products is typically about 12 inches wide and 12 inches long. Slate plates, on the other hand, are typically a little bit bigger and come in at a cost that is slightly more affordable than their wooden counterparts. It wasn’t the most important feature that we looked at, but it is definitely something that we looked at for each design. While there were very few users that we found complained about their selection being too big, there were quite a few that were disappointed that their selections were smaller than expected. Our advice is that if you are undecided on what size that you need, it is always better to get something that is too big than too small.
Value
Selecting something that uses high quality materials but keeps costs low is important
As always, cost is an important thing to take into consideration. While you want to ensure that you select something that will impress and hold up for years and years of holiday parties. We were drawn to designs that used bamboo, and that were offered at cost that wouldn’t break the bank. Luckily, even the most expensive designs weren’t too high, and we feel that they are worth a look. For the most part, however, we opted for options that would likely set you back the same amount that you would spend in a really good bottle of wine for a special occasion.
Top 10 Picks
1. Bambüsi
Hands down, this it out favorite pick out there on the market. It is made from high quality materials, and it is large enough to fit all of those tasty little morsels. Our favorite feature about the Bambüsi is that the bamboo wood has an elegant look with seamless details right in the wood. This product is made to impress.
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What’s great about this design is that all of the utensils that you will need are built right into a center drawer. Users love that the handle of the knives that are included match the material that make up the main plate. There are three different types of knives, and one 2-pronged fork.
Features:
The design of this model is also one of its best features. It has a solid square shape, and it has indentations along the side to place crackers. The indentations along the side also ensure that no liquids on the plate end up on your expensive tablecloth.
Materials:
This unit is composed of 100 percent organic bamboo. Bamboo is great because is a gentle on your knifes to keep them sharp. The knives have the similar bamboo handles and they also have very sharp stainless steel blades.
Size:
Measuring in at 13 inches wide, 13 inches long, and 2 inches high- this will be a great centerpiece to your table without taking up all that much room. It also weighs just over 5 pounds, so placing it in storage will be easy.
Value:
This is one of the most expensive designs out there on the market, but users feel that the extra cost is worth it in the long run. Plus, it comes with a 1 year warranty just in case you feel that the quality of this design does not meet your expectations.
Overall:
If you need something that it made from the highest quality of materials, plus looks great on any table- this is going to be your best bet. Just keep in mind that it comes in at a much higher price point than many of the others out there.
2. Radiant Royals
What we liked most about this option is that it comes with a lot of handy extras. It might not be the biggest design out there on the market, and its surface is a little on the basic side, but users really love all of the extras that are built right into the base.
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This is where the Radiant Royals really shines. Built into the drawer is a set of utensils. Users will receive three high quality knives and spreaders, as well as a three pronged fork. It also comes with additional markers that will be able to easily label items on your board.
Features:
The most notable feature about this design is the drawer that holds all of the knives in place. This drawer has a magnetic clasp on the inside, so you won’t have to worry about the drawer flying open and your knifes spilling on the floor as you move this unit.
Materials:
This unit is made from 100 percent bamboo, and that means that it will be gentle on all of your knives and utensils. The handles of the utensils are made from the same type of bamboo, and the blades are made from a high quality stainless steel.
Size:
Measuring in at 13 inches long and 13 inches wide, this unit will look great on any table without taking up that much room. It also weighs in at just over 5 pounds, making it a cinch to place into storage after the party is over.
Value:
What we liked most about the Radiant Royals option is that it comes in at a very affordable price point that won’t break the bank. Plus, they offer a 100 percent money back guarantee if it doesn’t live up to your expectations.
Overall:
With all of the additional features included, as well as the high quality bamboo surface and the affordable price point- this unit is one of our top choices and worth a look.
3. VonShef
We love the VonShef design because it serves up a lot of style. Instead of sporting the basic square design, this option has a rounded frame with tiers to separate and display different types of appetizers.
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Included with this unit is three utensils that are built right into the center of the unit. These utensils include a knife, a spreader, and a two pronged fork.
Features:
What we really liked about this option is that it has a rounded tiered design that is incredibly stylish and will look like a professional centerpiece. There is a drawer on the bottom tier that holds all of the utensils so that they will never becomes misplaced.
Materials:
This unit is made of 100 percent bamboo, which means that it will be easy to clean, and it will also be easier on your knifes to keep them sharper longer. The knives are also made from a high quality stainless steel so that they will not rust and will hold up over time.
Size:
Measuring it at 12 inches long and about 9 inches wide, this is one of the smaller options out there on the market. It also weighs just shy of 3 pounds, making it easy to pop into storage.
Value:
The cost of this unit is slightly more affordable than some of the other options out there on the market, but it is important to note that it is also slightly smaller as well.
Overall:
As we mentioned earlier, it won’t hold as much food as some of the other options, but the tiered design will offer a lot more style to your dinner table, and the built in utensil drawer will ensure that you are never without the right tools.
4. Stone Age Slate
Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to this design. The material used are perfect for not holding on to odors and bacteria, and the writable surface makes it easy to display and label all of your unique little appetizers.
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The downside about this design is that it doesn’t come with any extra accessories such as knives or even writing materials. If you want to be able to write on this surface, you will have to buy chalk or chalk markers separately.
Features:
What we liked about this design is that while it is made of a heavy material, it has a set of rubber feet at the base to prevent scratching on your table or countertops. Plus, it has a sleek yet rustic look to it that will bring a lot of style to your dinner table. Users can also write directly on the surface so they can label each individual appetizer.
Materials:
The most notable feature about this design is the material that is used. Stone Age Slate uses premium quality black slate. This material might not be as forgiving on your utensils, but it is not porous so that means it will not absorb any odors or bacteria that could taint your expensive appetizers and meats.
Size:
Since the design of this unit is long and flat, it is going to take up a lot of room on your table. It measures in at 20 inches long and 14 inches wide, and weighs just shy of 8 pounds.
Value:
The cost of this unit runs about in the middle of the road. It isn’t the most expensive out there on the market, but it is far from being the most expensive. Considering how much surface area that you will have to work with, this is an excellent deal.
Overall:
If you want to have a larger surface area to really load up with a ton of different tasty little morsels, the large surface area of this option will allow you to execute the perfect display for your next party.
5. VonShef Jigsaw
VonShef is making our list yet again with this Jigsaw design. What’s great about this option is that users will have the option to place all of the pieces together to form a big tray, or they can detach each little tray and have it travel around the party.
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Unlike some of the others options out there on the market, this unit doesn’t come with the proper knives and utensils needed. What it does come with, however, is a stand that holds each individual tray when not in use. That means that you can store this unit on your countertop and use each platter only as needed.
Features:
The most notable feature about this design is that it is able to detach each individual plate to suit the needs of your party. Whether you are having a small intimate party, or entertaining a large group, this model will be able to accommodate both.
Materials:
Just like any quality VonShef design, this unit is made from all natural bamboo that will be easy on your knives, and it will prevent warping when exposed to water over time.
Size:
Each individual tray measures to be 6 inches long and 6 inches wide, and when completely assembled the entire unit is 12 inches long and 12 inches wide. Plus, weighing in at just under 3 pounds makes it easy to pop this unit into storage until your next big party.
Value:
What we love most about this option is that it comes it at a really affordable price point. This entire design may set you back about what you would spend on a decent bottle of wine.
Overall:
If you are looking for something that it a little more versatile, and is able to be detached to create smaller plates, this is an excellent design that comes from a trust company.
6. Shanik
While this might not be the biggest option out there on the market, it has a very clever design that makes it unique and worth a look. It is made from high quality materials that is going to be easy on your knives, and it will look great on any table.
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What users really love about this option is that it comes with all of the cutting tools that you will need for a variety of foods. Users will receive a knife, a spreader, and a fork, and they are all built into the base.
Features:
In addition to receiving utensils that are built directly into the base, this unit also comes with ceramic bowls that are built right into the side that are perfect for dips as well as for keeping meats and crackers separate from the rest of the plate.
Materials:
Unlike many of the other options out there on the market that use bamboo, this option users arcadia wood. This material offers a little bit more of a rich and deep design with unique patterns in the rich grain. The containers that fit along the side are made from ceramic.
Size:
This is a little bit larger than some of the other rounded options, measuring in at a little over 12 inches long and 12 inches wide, and sits 2 inches up off of the table. It also weighs about just shy of 5 pounds.
Value:
The cost of this unit runs about in the middle of the road. It isn’t the most expensive design on the market, but it is far from the most expensive. Plus, it comes with a 100 percent money back warranty within 30 days of purchase if it doesn’t meet your needs.
Overall:
Users really love the rich and expensive look to this options, as well as the addition of the ceramic side dishes. If you are looking for something that will add a little class to your dinner spread, this is a great option.
7. Organic Cook
Users really like this design is a little different than others that include utensils that are built right into the base. This option has a sleek and unique holder for all of your cutting tools, and it also is designed for various types of tasty little appetizers.
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Included with the purchase of this option are three different types of knives, as well as a two pronged fork. It also comes with a ceramic bowl that is perfect for dipping sauces. What is unique about this option is that it also comes with a set of three cocktail forks.
Features:
The design of this plate is perfect for various types of appetizers. The grooved edges are perfect for crackers, and the addition of a condiment bowl is perfect for dips as well as nuts, and the utensil stand makes it easy to store knives while not in use.
Materials:
This unit is made from all natural moso bamboo that users can rest assured have never been treated with harmful chemicals and are BPA free. The condiment bowl is made from ceramic, and all of the utensils are composed of stainless steel.
Size:
Measuring in at 14.8 inches long and 11.8 inches wide, making it just a tad bigger than some of the other similar designs out there on the market. It also weighs in at 3.8 pounds.
Value:
The cost of this option is just slightly more expensive than some of the other similar designs for sale. However, users really love the addition of the knife stand as well as the additional cocktail knives and dipping bowl.
Overall:
We love the clever design of this option, but the knife stand might make it a little bit more difficult to pack away when the party's over. However, if you are looking for something with a lot of function and style, this unit is well worth the slightly padded price tag.
8. Picnic at Ascot
The Picnic at Ascot has a simple design at first glance, but it is the addition of all of the little accessories that makes this unit stand out from the rest. Users love the style and size of their option, and found it perfect for most differ parties.
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Included with the purchase of this platter is three additional bowls that can be used for dipping sauces, or nuts. Each bowl has an additional wooden spoon for easy serving. It also comes with four stainless steel markers to label all of your appetizers for your guests.
Features:
This platter has three holes in the rear to easily place each dipping bowl, and a cut out that runs along the edges to keep moisture on the plate and not on your expensive tablecloth.
Materials:
The plate as well as the included spoons are made from organically grown bamboo that has never been treated with chemicals and has been FDA approved. The serving bowls are ceramic, and the markers are made from high quality stainless steel.
Size:
Measuring in at 13 inches long and 13 inches wide, this is pretty a pretty standard size. It also weighs just over 3 pounds.
Value:
The cost of this unit run pretty par for the course. It isn’t the most expensive option out there, but it is far from the last expensive. This will likely set you back about the same amount as a few bottles of wine for your next party.
Overall:
If you are looking for something that will work for a variety of different types of appetizers and comes with a few accessories to make your life just a little easier, this unit is well worth the slightly padded price tag.
9. Homemaxs
Users love that the HOMEMAXS comes with all of the additional features that party hosts will need to put together an excellent appetizer and charcuterie plate, and it is all built right into the tray. Plus, it is made from all natural materials and is just a little bit larger than the average size.
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This is where this options really shines. Included with purchase are two very small condiment bowls, six cocktail forks, three knives and one two pronged fork.
Features:
All of the included utensils can be stored in in a drawer found at the base of the unit. It also has two cut outs in the top corner of the platter to place condiment cups so that they are even with the surface. It also has grooved edges that perfect for placing crackers along the edge.
Materials:
This unit is made from high quality bamboo that will be easy on your knives, and is perfect for keeping out odors. It is also incredibly easy to clean. The condiment dishes are made from ceramic, and all of the utensils are composed of stainless steel.
Size:
Measuring in at almost 16 inches long and 13 inches wide, is is one of the larger options out there on the market. It is slightly heavier than most, weighing in at just over 7 pounds.
Value:
The cost of this unit runs pretty par for the course. Considering all of the extras that are included with purchase as well as the high quality materials used for its construction, this is a really great point point for this option.
Overall:
It might be just a tad more expensive than some of the other options out there on the market, but this unit comes with a lot more little extra accessories that will be all you will need to craft the perfect appetizer tray.
10. Solander Skelf
This Cadillac of a tray is really going to be able to hold a lot of tasty treats. It is a bit bigger than many of the average designs, and everything little detail down to the included utensils are made from high quality materials. However, similar to all Cadillacs, this option comes in at a pretty high price point.
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This unit includes a set of cutting utensils that are built right into the unit. Utensils include a three knives, and a two pronged fork.
Features:
What makes this unit stand out from the rest is that it has a drawer that slides out to reveal a series of cutting utensils, and the end of the drawer has a surface to place even more treats such as peppers or pickles.
Materials:
Users really love the sharp design of this model. It has a little bit of a darker finish than some of the others, and is constructed of high quality and 100 perfect natural bamboo. The knives that are included are also made from a high quality stainless steel.
Size:
Measuring in at 16 inches long and 13 inches wide, this is one of the larger options out there on the market. It also weighs just under 5 pounds.
Value:
This is one of the more expensive options out there on the market. It is important to note, however, that is comes with a 100 percent money back guarantee if you find, for any reason, you are not happy with this product.
Overall:
We liked this option because it comes with everything that you will need to create a great platter of treats, and it will look fantastic on any table. Just keep in mind it is a little more expensive than most.
Sources
- , Best Cheese Board, Buyer Guide