The 9 Best Butcher Block Islands

Editor's Notes

April 08, 2020:

A butcher block is a highly regarded item in the world of professional cooking, and for this reason it's no surprise that many home cooks want one in their own kitchen. With the added benefit of a kitchen island's storage space for hanging pots or storing cookware, these pieces are easily one of the most useful kitchen furnishings available.

An ideal butcher block is made from top-quality hardwood, and has end grain or edge grain construction. This means that it's made from many pieces of wood glued together exposing the cut ends. The board is then milled and sanded to create a resilient surface that will withstand thousands of knife cuts. While end grain is more expensive, it will not warp over time like its edge grain counterpart.

For those that are searching for a smaller model with no frills, the Catskill Craftsman French Country or the John Boos Block Table are fine choices. Both have sturdy builds and are crafted to withstand many hours of cooking preparation.

If you're not concerned with cutting directly on your block's surface and more focused on aesthetics and storage space, then the Home Styles Orleans or the Home Styles Americana are worthy choices.

Finally, for those who want a high end design that can be used in a professional kitchen or in the home, the John Boos Maple Top Work Table might be a perfect fit. John Boos is lauded as the best of the best in the butcher block world, and this island will give you the largest amount of cutting space available while still providing ample storage space beneath.