Looks Good / Works HardEpisode 2: Cutting Boards
There are cutting boards that live for the camera.
And there are cutting boards that live for the knife.
Most kitchens need both. The mistake is asking one to do the other’s job.
Looks Good
John Boos Maple Wood Cutting Board
This is the board people fall in love with slowly.
Solid maple. Warm grain. Enough weight to stay put on the counter. It feels permanent, like it belongs to a kitchen that cooks real food and doesn’t rush through it.
Why it earns its place
Made from sustainably sourced hardwood
Naturally gentle on knives
Beautiful enough to double as a serving board
Excellent long-term reviews for durability when properly cared for
What to know
Requires oiling and occasional upkeep
Not dishwasher safe
Can stain or warp if neglected
Best for
If you value ritual in the kitchen and don’t mind caring for the tools you love, this board becomes part of the furniture.
Works Hard
Epicurean Composite Cutting Board
This is the board that doesn’t need attention.
Thin but sturdy. Lightweight. Quietly indestructible. It moves from prep to sink to dishwasher without ceremony, and it doesn’t complain.
Why people swear by it
Dishwasher safe
Non-porous and stain resistant
Easy on knives
Heat resistant and incredibly durable
Consistently high ratings from everyday cooks
What to know
Not a statement piece
Feels utilitarian by design
Lives best in a drawer, not on display
Best for
If you cook often, chop aggressively, and want a board that disappears into the routine, this one earns its keep daily.
Honorable Middle Ground
OXO Good Grips Carving & Prep Board
Rubber edges for grip. Juice grooves where they actually matter. Easy cleanup.
It’s not romantic, but it’s thoughtful. And that counts.
The Verdict
If your cutting board is part of the visual rhythm of your kitchen, wood brings warmth and presence.
If your cutting board is a tool you reach for without thinking, composite wins every time.
The secret is not choosing one.
It’s knowing which one you’re using and why.
Because beauty belongs on the counter.
And work belongs where the work happens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cutting Boards
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The best cutting board material depends on how you cook. Wood cutting boards, especially maple, are gentle on knives and visually warm. Composite cutting boards are more durable, non-porous, and easier to clean, making them better for everyday prep.
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Yes. Composite cutting boards are non-porous and resistant to bacteria buildup. Many are dishwasher safe, which makes them a popular choice for kitchens that prioritize hygiene and convenience.
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High-quality wooden cutting boards are naturally antimicrobial. When cleaned and oiled properly, hardwood boards like maple are safe for food prep and have been shown to resist bacterial growth better than plastic.
Series Note
Looks Good / Works Hard is a comparison series for people who want their homes to feel intentional without pretending they don’t get used.
Next up: Desk Lamps
The one that sets the mood vs the one that saves your eyes.