Let’s face it; entertaining will be slightly different this summer. Even as some COVID-19 restrictions gradually lift, large organized gatherings continue to be discouraged, and strict social distancing protocols are strongly recommended.
As sad as these times feel, you can still celebrate within the confines of your home or backyard by splurging on a custom cheese, charcuterie, or grazing board. Luckily, there are several small businesses in South Jersey that specialize in the creation of such boards for entertaining small crowds or JUST FOR YOU! 🙂
But First…What is a Grazing Board?
A grazing board is a small or large board or platter primarily featuring cured meats, cheeses, and crackers with a diverse array of accompaniments that can be tart, fruity, crunchy, smooth, or savory. Abundant and neatly organized, grazing platters act as gorgeous centerpieces and dramatic displays for entertaining. Typically offered as finger foods or nibbles at social affairs, these visually attractive spreads allow people to pick from and sample casually.
In other words, you’ve probably seen them many times at parties or events, but they’re getting a lot more attention these days for any occasion or no occasion at all.
Grazing Boards in South Jersey
Board Catering
Board Catering offers various sizes of grazing platters and board boxes featuring top-quality cured meats, varieties of cheese, fruits, fresh vegetables, nuts, olives, bread, dips, and chocolate. During the pandemic, customers can order The Q Box (Quarantine Box) and have a mystery box sent to them filled with goodies. Board delivers in the tri-state (NJ/PA/DE) area.
Cut + Board
Cut + Board offers a variety of artisanal charcuterie boards as well as a brunch box. Based in Cape May, owners Sarah and Andrea have a background in graphic design and luxury management, respectively. Sarah also owns a small farm and often uses ingredients from it on their boards.
Dream Boards
Dream Boards specializes in custom, one-of-a-kind sweet, and savory boards. Perfect for holidays, baby showers, bridal showers, weddings, brunches, and girls nights, boards can be unique and fit any theme the customer requests.
Farm to Board
Farm to Board builds meticulously-styled custom charcuterie boards sourced from the finest cheeses, freshest meats, unique and delicious accompaniments. They work with local purveyors as much as possible and offer contact-free home delivery.
Grazing Affair
Grazing Affair offers many bountiful boards and transportable takeaway boxes filled with fresh fruits and veggies, Italian meats and cheeses, crackers, homemade beet hummus, olives, dried fruits, and nuts. While grazing boards for events are not currently available due to COVID-19 restrictions, takeaway boxes are available for pickup in Medford on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Graze to the Occasion
Graze to the Occasion crafts visually stunning and playful grazing boards and platters for all occasions. They accept custom orders via Instagram.
What’s on your favorite grazing board?
Marilyn is a freelance writer covering the food and drink scene of South Jersey. You can find more of her writing on Philly Grub and NewsBreak.