17.5-in x 13-in Epicurean Gourmet Cutting Board Natural/Slate

Our review of the Epicurean Gourmet Series Cutting Board finds it best suited for home cooks who want a durable, low-maintenance prep surface large enough for roasts and family meals; the single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a dual-sided design with an integrated juice groove that keeps countertops clean while offering a flat prep side for versatility. The board is made from a paper composite material that feels lightweight yet sturdy, resists odors and bacteria, and stands up to daily kitchen use and high temperatures up to 350 Degree F.

Key Features

• Dual-sided surface: One side has an integrated juice groove to capture liquids while the reverse side provides a larger flat area for general chopping and prep.
• Richlite paper composite: The material is nonporous and does not absorb odors or harbor bacteria, making it easy to clean and hygienic for regular use.
• Knife friendly: The natural face is designed to be gentle on knives while still durable enough to handle daily cutting tasks.
• Heat resistant: Rated to 350 Degree F/175 Degree C so it can tolerate hot cookware briefly without warping or damage.
• Made in the USA: Manufactured domestically from a dense paper composite for consistent quality and a thicker profile that accommodates the juice groove.
• Built-in handling hole: The cutout makes it easy to grab, move and store the board between uses.

Who It's For

This cutting board is ideal for home cooks who need a larger, reliable prep surface for slicing meats, cutting vegetables and catching juices without creating a mess. People who value easy maintenance will appreciate the nonporous Richlite material that cleans well and resists odors.

It may be less appealing to those who prefer very soft wood boards for aesthetic reasons or users who expect a fully scratch-free surface after heavy daily knife use, since some buyers report visible knife marks over time. Professional kitchens that require extremely heavy industrial usage might prefer thicker or dedicated plastic or metal options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable and lightweight construction that is easy to lift and store.
• Integrated juice groove effectively contains liquids and protects countertops.
• Nonporous surface resists odors and is simple to clean, including dishwasher-safe handling by some users.
• At 17.5 in by 13 in the size works well for larger cuts and family meal prep.

Cons

• While generally scratch resistant, several customers note the surface does develop knife marks with regular use.
• The modern composite look may not match kitchens that prefer the warmth of traditional hardwood boards.

Specifications

Dimensions	17.5 in x 13 in
Colors	Natural with slate accent
Material	Richlite paper composite
Heat resistance	Up to 350 Degree F / 175 Degree C
Sides	Dual-sided: juice groove on one side, flat prep side on reverse
Made in	USA
Features	Integrated juice groove and built-in handling hole

Our Verdict

The Epicurean Gourmet 17.5 in x 13 in cutting board is a solid everyday choice for home cooks who want a hygienic, heat-resistant prep surface with the convenience of a juice groove and a flat reverse side; its durable Richlite construction and size make it good value for most kitchens, though users should expect normal knife marks over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the board dishwasher safe?
The Richlite composite is durable and many customers clean it in the dishwasher, but hand washing will preserve appearance longer.

Will it absorb odors or harbor bacteria?
No, the nonporous paper composite is designed not to absorb odors or harbor bacteria and is easy to sanitize.

Does the juice groove work well?
Yes, the integrated juice groove captures liquids effectively and keeps countertops clean during meat and produce prep.