Cutting board with juice groove – when is it really worth it?

In short: A juice groove is practical when cutting a lot of meat, roasts, or juicy grilled food—it neatly catches liquids. If you want to be versatile, choose a board that can be used on both sides : one side with a juice groove, the other smooth for vegetables, bread, or presentations. Many boards at wood & more are designed this way.

1. Advantages of a juice groove

  • Reliably catches meat and roasting juices.
  • Cleaner work – fewer stains on the work surface.
  • Especially practical for BBQ, roasts, steak or fruit with lots of juice.

2. When is a juice groove useful?

A juice groove is always worthwhile if you:

  • cut up juicy roasts or pulled pork,
  • Carve steaks and burgers straight from the grill,
  • cutting large quantities of fruit such as melons or pineapples.

The groove prevents liquid from running over the table – making it not only practical but also hygienic.

3. When do you not need a juice groove?

When cutting vegetables, bread, or dry foods, a juice groove isn't necessary—it can even be annoying when small pieces fall in. That's why many cooks prefer a smooth work surface for everyday use.

4. The solution: Double-sided boards

At wood & more you will find many boards that can be used on both sides :
One side has a groove for slicing meat and roasts, the other smooth for vegetables, bread, or table presentation. This way, you always have both options on a single board.

Examples: The CHEF BOARD in all sizes or the Pitmaster Board XXL – universally applicable, depending on how you turn the board.

5. Practical examples from the kitchen & BBQ

  • Kitchen: Chop vegetables on the smooth side, carve roasts on the side with the juice groove.
  • BBQ: Pull pork or brisket into pieces → juice groove catches the juices, then serve on the smooth side.
  • Table presentation: Serve steak strips or a cheese platter stylishly on the smooth side.

6. Mini FAQ

Does every board need a juice groove?

No – a smooth board is sufficient for bread, cheese, or vegetables. However, a juice groove is very practical for meat and BBQs.

Are double-sided boards heavier?

Yes, they are usually more solid (approx. 4 cm thick), but extremely durable and stable.

Can I cut meat without a juice groove?

Sure, but the juice will then run more easily over the edge. A juice groove makes working cleaner.

Author: wood & more – your expert for cutting boards, BBQ & knives.
Last updated: 01.09.2025

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For all those who don’t just want to buy – but want to understand.

Everything you want to know about wood, knives & quality.

Holzschneidebrett mit einem Messer.

Which Damascus knives are right for me?

A good knife is more than just a tool—it's a matter of precision, ergonomics, and the right application. Choosing the right knife type makes work easier, improves cutting results, and protects the material and your hand in the long run. Our hand-forged Cuttworxs Damascus knives are tailored to different tasks and needs. Below you'll find an overview of the most important blade shapes and their applications.

Chef's knife – For large cuts and precise power

The classic chef's knife is the most versatile tool in any kitchen. The long, slightly curved blade is ideal for cutting meat, fish, vegetables, or herbs. Thanks to its balanced and high stability, it masters both powerful and controlled cuts.

To the Damascus Chef's Knife Evolution - FlameWood

Santoku knife – the compact all-rounder

The Santoku knife originates from Japan and is known for its handy blade shape. It's particularly suitable for vegetables, fish, and smaller portions of meat. Its light weight and flat cutting surface make it ideal for fine, precise cuts.

To the Damascus Santoku knife Evolution - Flamewood

Nakiri knife – specialist for vegetables

The Nakiri was specially developed for vegetable cooking. With its straight, rectangular blade, it's ideal for finely dicing, chopping, and slicing vegetables and herbs. It cuts cleanly all the way to the board – without any rocking motion.

To the Damascus Nakiri knife Evolution - OriginWood / Rosewood

Bread knife – For crust, fruit and more

The serrated bread knife glides effortlessly through hard crusts and soft interiors. It's suitable not only for bread, but also for large fruits like pineapple, melon, or pumpkin. It's also a reliable helper for tomatoes or hard-shelled baked goods.

To the Damascus Bread Knife Evolution - OriginWood / Rosewood

Knife block or individual set?

Anyone who performs multiple cutting tasks will benefit from a well-stocked set. Our knife blocks offer secure and stylish storage for a variety of blade shapes. Those seeking even more flexibility can create their own set: Choose your chef's board made of solid oak in your desired size and combine it with the matching Cuttworxs Damascus knife.

To the chef's board & damask knife set

All Cuttworxs Damascus knives are made of genuine Damascus steel with an elaborate grind – for long-lasting sharpness, perfect balance, and a distinctive blade pattern that makes each knife unique. The handles are made of fine woods, ergonomically shaped, and fit securely in the hand even during extended use.

What makes a good cutting board?

A high-quality cutting board is characterized by three things: the right material, well-thought-out functionality, and a durable construction. We use solid oak and walnut wood – natural, robust, antibacterial, and gentle on knives. Our cutting boards are 4 cm thick, making them noticeably more stable than many commercially available models. No warping, no slipping – just a reliable work surface that will last for decades.

Our boards also make a difference in terms of functionality: a precisely milled juice groove, usability on both sides and, depending on the model, practical recessed handles or stainless steel elements ensure that the board becomes a real tool - in the kitchen, at the grill or on the buffet.

We have developed four well-thought-out board lines for different requirements:

Chef board – The robust kitchen board

Compact, functional, and versatile: Our 30 × 30 cm and 40 × 30 cm chef's boards are ideal for everyday use in the kitchen—for cutting vegetables, meat, or herbs. Solid wood combines clean lines and high-quality craftsmanship.

For the robust chef's board for the kitchen (also suitable as a burger & steak board)

Chef Board XL – For grill, BBQ & large cuts

The 50 × 40 cm and 60 × 40 cm versions offer generous space for large pieces of meat, roasts, or pulled pork. Perfect for grilling, preparing, and serving food—sturdy, cut-resistant, and with plenty of presence.

To the BBQ & Grill chef board for carving and serving

The Chefstation – More than just a board

Our Chefstation is a modular system for professional demands: 4 cm thick oak, combined with removable GN containers, a stainless steel console, and an optional hygienic countertop. The perfect solution for structured preparation, clean work, and efficient processes – whether in the kitchen, at a BBQ, or catering.

To the boss station - where work becomes a pleasure

Steak & Burger Boards – For a stylish appearance

More compact than the Chef's Board, but no less impressive: The steak and burger boards combine aesthetics with functionality – with a milled juice groove, recessed handles, and a refined wood texture. Ideal for serving meat, burgers, or small meals – straight from the grill to the table.

To the Steak & Burger Board - present and enjoy becomes the motto

Our cutting boards are handcrafted with passion for materials, form, and function. They are made for people who want to experience quality, who shop consciously, and who value durable tools. Not mass-produced items—just honest products that last.

Discover all cutting boards at a glance

Are the products also suitable as gifts?

Absolutely! A solid cutting board or a fine Damascus knife is more than just a tool—it's a gift with value and character. Whether for a wedding, a birthday, Father's Day, or as a sophisticated corporate gift, handcrafted products made of wood and steel are always well received. Packaged in elegant outer packaging, engraved upon request, or as a set—a gift for people who prefer to burn fires rather than just cook.

What makes wood & more special?

With us, you won't get anonymous mass-produced goods, but lovingly crafted unique pieces – made from solid wood, refined with experience and quality. We are passionate BBQ fans, kitchen people, and hosts ourselves. Our products are created from this passion, with genuine handcraft – fair, honest, and uncompromising quality. And that's exactly what you'll feel with every cut.

How do the boards from wood & more differ?

Each of our boards is unique – yet they follow a clear standard: solid wood, perfect craftsmanship, and a sophisticated design. Our chef stations are workstations with GN containers and a stainless steel console, ideal for professionals and prep workers. Our chef boards, on the other hand, offer solid support, flexible use, and an optional juice groove – perfect for everyday use at the grill or in the kitchen. Our burger and steak boards, on the other hand, focus on presentation: with or without handles, striking in both form and function. What they all have in common? Real wood, real work, real tools.

Where do the materials come from and how are they produced?

We use only high-quality, sustainable wood – oak, walnut, elm, ash, or maple. All boards are handcrafted in our factory, one by one. We focus on short distances, fair conditions, and 100% quality assurance. Our Damascus knives are the product of traditional blacksmithing and are processed in small batches – each piece is inspected, sharpened, and ready for use. No industrialization, no compromises – only genuine products with a provenance.