Your new house is put together, and your backyard is almost complete. Grass has been laid down, and the deck has been stained. But there’s one thing that might take your backyard from being run of the mill to the talk of the town, and that’s an outdoor kitchen.
Explore the Outdoor Collection We aren’t just talking about a BBQ (although grills are a big part of it). We’re talking about a full-on space that will allow you to cook meals for your guests and family at maximum efficiency.
Credit: House Beautiful
How often have you been in the middle of grilling up some burgers, running inside to cut up tomatoes, and coming back outside to realize your burgers were suddenly overdone? With an outdoor kitchen, you can conveniently stay in one space while you cook the meal and not leave things unsupervised.
There are a lot of different factors that go into making the perfect outdoor kitchen. But, just like the kitchen inside your house, you want the best for your summer kitchen. Here are some of the things we suggest for the perfect outdoor kitchen.
Credit: HGTV
Grill
The grill options are endless, so picking the perfect grill can be a bit of a daunting process. The grill is the heart of your outdoor kitchen, so you’ll want to pick one that’s made of high-quality materials and is long-lasting, and you certainly won’t complain if it comes with a few extra bells and whistles on top.
When you go shopping for a grill, you’ll need to choose between gas, charcoal, and a relative newcomer to the market, pellet grills. Consumer Reports has no stake in the age-old debate over which form of fuel is the best for barbecuing, and our testing experts find advantages to all three.
Gas is more convenient because you turn the burners on to start the grill. Charcoal, whether you have a regular charcoal grill or a more specialized kamado grill, gives you a greater degree of control—you determine the amount of heat by the size of the fire you build. Pellet grills, which use wood pellets, are meant to offer the taste of cooking with wood, plus unmatched precision—they have digital thermostats that allow you to dial in a precise cooking temperature. Because of these differences, we test each type differently.
Credit: The Spruce
Grill Hood
The dynamic duo of your outdoor kitchen will be your grill and your grill hood. “But Rustic Kitchen and Bath, I’m already outdoors, what good would a range hood do for me?” While you’re outdoors, it doesn’t mean that the fumes from your grill will just disperse in the open air. Instead, a range hood helps remove the fumes directly from your grill and away from your barbecue kitchen.
Explore Outdoor Grill Hoods Our current favorite is the ZLINE Under Cabinet Outdoor Grill Hood (GOU2). This range hood is made to be outdoors, so you don’t have to worry about it getting rusted from the weather. It features powerful twin 1000 CFM motors that have 4 different speed levels, built-in LED lighting, and dishwasher-safe stainless steel baffle filters for easy cleanup.
ZLINE Under Cabinet Outdoor Grill Hood with Size Options (GOU2)
$2,249.96
$2,499.95
Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE Under Cabinet Outdoor Grill Hood with Size Options (GOU2) is crafted for those who demand professional-grade results beyond the kitchen. Designed to integrate into any custom patio… Read More
Cabinetry
Cabinetry is a must in any outdoor kitchen! We suggest at least a couple of cabinets and shelves for kitchen storage; at the minimum, you’ll need a place to store a trash can, utensils, plates, and glasses for your food and drink!
Durability is the number one concern when looking for the best summer kitchen cabinets. Outdoor cabinets absolutely must be weather-resistant, even if they will be undercover. This is particularly important in Florida, where the climate is wet and humid.
To ensure maximum weather resistance, choose cabinets made of 304 or superior quality 316 stainless steel. Stainless steel can easily stand up to extreme temperatures and moisture. It also provides a sleek look that blends nicely with most outdoor kitchens. For hardware, look for steel handles coated in zinc to provide the best rust resistance.
Credit: Casa-Maison
Outdoor Dining
Things like a grill and range hood are the most important parts of your outdoor kitchen design, but be sure to think about the atmosphere of the kitchen as well. Be sure to purchase a table with plenty of room, chairs that go along with it, and plenty of outdoor-approved lighting (cooking in the dark is not only a challenge, but it’s also pretty dangerous!)
If you’re looking to really make your outdoor space dazzle, consider implementing a fireplace. Fireplaces can really make an area pop, and who doesn’t love spending time around a fireplace with family and friends, a cold drink in hand, and a belly full of delicious food?
Adding a decanter to your table setting will have you staying longer outside.
Credit: Styled By Emily Henderson
Outdoor Kitchen Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few things you should avoid when building an outdoor kitchen. The first is implementing any appliances or hardware that aren’t outdoor-approved. The last thing you would want to do is have your outdoor kitchen have unnecessary extra costs after a few rainstorms. Also, be sure to avoid cramming your outdoor kitchen into a small space; you would hate to have your furniture too close to your grill, that’s a disaster just waiting to happen!
Credit: Interiors Online
We hope this has inspired you into investing in an outdoor kitchen! Remember that Rustic Kitchen & Bath is the best place to buy all your outdoor and indoor kitchen needs. If you need any assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
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FAQs
What is considered an outdoor kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen is a dedicated cooking and entertaining space located outside the home that goes beyond a standalone grill. It typically includes a grill, ventilation, storage, prep space, and seating so meals can be prepared and served entirely outdoors without repeated trips inside.
Why should I invest in an outdoor kitchen instead of just a grill?
An outdoor kitchen improves efficiency, safety, and convenience by keeping all cooking, prep, and serving tasks in one place. It allows you to monitor food continuously, reduces indoor mess, and transforms your backyard into a functional entertaining space rather than a single-use grilling area.
What is the most important appliance in an outdoor kitchen?
The grill is the centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen. It drives the layout, ventilation needs, and overall functionality. Choosing a high-quality, durable grill ensures consistent performance and long-term reliability.
What type of grill is best for an outdoor kitchen?
The best grill depends on cooking style. Gas grills offer convenience and quick startup, charcoal grills provide hands-on heat control and traditional flavor, and pellet grills deliver wood-smoked flavor with precise digital temperature control. Each option can work well in an outdoor kitchen when paired with proper ventilation.
Do I really need a grill hood outdoors?
Yes. Even in open-air environments, smoke, grease, and heat can build up around the cooking area. An outdoor-rated grill hood actively pulls fumes away from the grill, improving comfort, protecting surrounding materials, and keeping the cooking area safer and cleaner.
What makes an outdoor grill hood different from an indoor range hood?
Outdoor grill hoods are built from weather-resistant materials, typically 304-grade stainless steel or higher, and are designed to handle higher heat output and exposure to moisture. Indoor hoods are not rated for outdoor use and can corrode or fail when exposed to the elements.
What kind of cabinetry should be used in an outdoor kitchen?
Outdoor kitchen cabinets should be made from weather-resistant materials such as 304 or 316 stainless steel. These materials resist rust, moisture, heat, and humidity, making them suitable for year-round outdoor exposure.
Is stainless steel necessary for outdoor cabinets?
Yes. Stainless steel is the most reliable material for outdoor cabinetry because it withstands moisture, temperature changes, and direct exposure better than wood or composite alternatives. It also pairs well visually with grills and outdoor-rated appliances.
How much storage does an outdoor kitchen need?
At a minimum, outdoor kitchens should include storage for utensils, plates, cups, trash, and basic cooking tools. Additional cabinets or shelving improve organization and reduce trips back inside, especially when entertaining larger groups.
What should I consider for outdoor dining and seating?
Outdoor dining areas should include a table with adequate space, comfortable seating, and outdoor-approved lighting. Proper spacing is essential to keep furniture safely away from heat sources while maintaining good traffic flow.
Is lighting important in an outdoor kitchen?
Yes. Adequate lighting is critical for both safety and usability. Task lighting helps with cooking and prep, while ambient lighting enhances atmosphere and allows the space to be used after dark.
Can an outdoor kitchen be used for entertaining year-round?
With proper planning, yes. Features such as covered structures, weather-resistant appliances, and optional elements like fireplaces or heaters can extend the usability of an outdoor kitchen into cooler seasons.
What are common mistakes to avoid when building an outdoor kitchen?
Common mistakes include using appliances or hardware that are not outdoor-rated, choosing materials that cannot withstand moisture, overcrowding the space, and placing furniture too close to the grill or heat sources.
How much space do I need for an outdoor kitchen?
Space requirements vary by design, but an outdoor kitchen should allow safe clearance around the grill, adequate prep space, and comfortable movement for cooking and serving. Avoid forcing an outdoor kitchen into an area that is too small for proper ventilation and seating.
Are outdoor kitchens a good investment?
Yes. Outdoor kitchens can significantly enhance lifestyle enjoyment and may increase home value by expanding usable living space. They are especially appealing in climates that support frequent outdoor entertaining.
Can I build an outdoor kitchen in stages?
Absolutely. Many homeowners start with a grill and hood, then add cabinetry, storage, and dining features over time. Planning ahead ensures future additions integrate smoothly.
Do I need professional help to design an outdoor kitchen?
While DIY planning is possible, professional guidance can help ensure proper layout, ventilation, material selection, and appliance compatibility, reducing costly mistakes and long-term maintenance issues.
Where can I find outdoor kitchen appliances and ventilation designed for outdoor use?
Retailers like Rustic Kitchen and Bath offer outdoor-rated grills, hoods, cabinetry, and accessories designed specifically for exterior kitchen environments, making it easier to build a cohesive and durable outdoor kitchen setup.
