Why Was No One Eating the Stunning Charcuterie Boards at the Grammys?

We need to discuss the real underdog of the 2023 Grammys: the charcuterie boards. Topping nearly every table at the award show were gorgeous fruit-forward platters that deserve far more appreciation than they’ve received thus far.

This wasn’t just any smattering of cured meat and cheese — the boards truly had it all. We’re talking stacked sliced pears, all the berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries), halved figs, dates, zigzag-cut kiwis, radish and cucumber slices, blood oranges, black grape clusters — we’re still not done — cashews, seeded crackers, and even cantaloupe, all artfully arranged on a wooden slab with matching tongs. There were also chunks of cheese, of course, perhaps a white cheddar, by the looks of it.

Mouthwatering as the spreads looked, the fresh nibbles were hardly, well, nibbled. As the ceremony progressed and photographers captured famous attendees during commercial breaks, the charcuterie boards remained glaringly untouched. Photos show duos like Jennifer Lopez and husband Ben Affleck and Taylor Swift and collaborator Bryce Dessner smiling by their wholly intact boards. We simply cannot relate to the restraint it must’ve taken to resist snacking away while watching the evening’s many performances.

Whoever is responsible for these gorgeous creations: We see you. We celebrate your work. And we hope your kiwi-cutting skills get the recognition they deserve. Read ahead to admire the sumptuous Grammys charcuterie boards and garner inspiration for your next arrangement.