Memphis Embraces the Art of Charcuterie Boards

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Memphis, known for its world-famous barbecue, has quietly developed a deep appreciation for the art of charcuterie boards. Even before the recent social media craze, Memphians have been assembling high-quality cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments into visually striking spreads, a tradition that remains strong in the city.

Why it matters

The enduring popularity of charcuterie boards in Memphis speaks to the city's food culture, which values artisanal, locally-sourced ingredients and the communal experience of sharing a carefully curated spread. This trend also highlights how Memphis has managed to maintain its distinct culinary identity even as food fads come and go nationwide.

The details

While charcuterie boards have become ubiquitous on social media feeds in recent years, Memphis residents have been perfecting the craft for much longer. Local restaurants, specialty food shops, and even home cooks have long been assembling high-quality cured meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, and other accompaniments into visually striking spreads that are both aesthetically pleasing and delicious.

• Long before viral grazing boards and algorithm-friendly spreads took over social media, Memphians were assembling cured meats and cheeses.
• Even though the social media trend for charcuterie boards is cooling off, the boards are still everywhere around Memphis.