Must-Haves for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Summer’s almost here, which means spending time outside with family and friends in the backyard. Whether you’re a professional backyard chef or want to be one, here are the things to consider for your outdoor kitchen.

Space and Layout

The first step to creating the perfect outdoor kitchen is to choose the space and layout. Consider how you plan to use the space, the average size of your gatherings, and what type of cooking you like to do. A well-thought-out layout ensures efficiency and comfort. Make sure there’s enough room for prep, cooking, and dining areas, and consider how well these zones flow together. An L-shaped or U-shaped layout can maximize counter space and create a more social environment.

High Quality Grill

At the heart of every outdoor kitchen is the grill. Whether you prefer gas, charcoal, or wood-fired, choosing a high-quality, durable grill is crucial to getting the food just right and pleasing your guests. Look for a model with an ample cooking surface, precise temperature control, and features that suit your cooking style, such as side burners, rotisseries, or a smoker box. It’s worth spending the money to get a high-quality grill because it’ll make your cooking easier and withstand the elements longer than a cheap grill.

Weather Resistant Cabinetry

Outdoor kitchens require storage that can withstand varying temperatures and weather conditions. Weather-resistant cabinetry made from marine-grade polymer, stainless steel, or teak provides a safe place to store utensils, cookware, and non-perishable ingredients. These materials resist rust, warping, and fading and ensure your outdoor kitchen looks great and stays functional.

Durable Countertops

Choosing the right countertops for your outdoor kitchen is just as important as the right cabinetry. Countertops must be weather-resistant and durable. Consider materials like granite, quartz, or concrete because they can withstand the elements and UV exposure and will look great for years.

Refrigeration

Having a refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen isn’t essential, but it will make it more convenient, allowing you to keep ingredients and beverages chilled and reduce trips inside. Look for outdoor-rated refrigerators designed to run efficiently in varying temperatures and conditions. Compact under-counter models are an excellent choice if you want to save space and you can integrate them into your cabinets.

Sink and Water Supply

Incorporating a sink with running water into your outdoor kitchen makes the space more functional and simplifies food prep and cleanup.

Lighting and Heating

Adequate lighting is essential not only for cooking and dining but also for setting the right mood. Consider installing a combination of task lighting over the grill and prep areas and ambient lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere for dining and socializing. If you plan to entertain during the cooler months, a heater is necessary to take the chill off. Consider a fire pit or an outdoor electric or gas heater.

Entertainment

An outdoor kitchen isn’t just about cooking; it’s a space for entertainment. Adding features like a sound system, TV, or bar area can maximize your outdoor space and give everyone something to enjoy.

Creating an outdoor kitchen is an investment in your home that makes entertaining more fun and can add value. By focusing on these essentials—space and layout, a quality grill, weather-resistant cabinetry, durable countertops, refrigeration, a sink with running water, and lighting, heating, and entertainment—you can design an exciting space whether you’re a seasoned chef or a casual cook.

Call Fire N Stone

Fire N Stone is Tilton, NH’s premier chimney, fireplace, and custom stone company. We can help you design the perfect outdoor kitchen space with custom stonework and the right heating system. Visit our showroom at 539 Laconia Rd. or call us at 603-293-4040.