RTA Outdoor Living

Kalamazoo Grill Review: Are These Luxury Grills Worth the Price? 3 Considerations to Know

Daniel Cdebaca — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:52:32 +0000

There’s no doubt about it… Kalamazoo Grills are the most expensive grills on the market.

Of course, there’s one primary thing you want to know.

Are they worth it?

The answer solely depends on what kind of griller you are… and the size of your budget.

And in this Kalamazoo Grill review, it’s our goal to help you determine if this brand is a “yay” or “nay” for you.

So let’s cut to the chase, shall we?

Quick Links:

Kalamazoo History & Background
3 Unique Aspects of Kalamazoo Grills (& What Makes them So Expensive)
Review of Kalamazoo’s Top 4 Grill Lines
Is Kalamazoo Worth the Hefty Price Tag?
A More Affordable Alternative to Kalamazoo Grills

Company Background (Why Kalamazoo Grills are So Expensive)

Let’s kick off with a short history lesson. Kalamazoo has existed in one shape or form since 1906… and it’s in this history that the origins of their quality shines through.

Originally, the company was known as Kalamazoo Sheet Metal.

During this time, the shop focused on producing highly specialized steel welded products.

Their biggest claim to fame?

Producing perfectly welded dairy processing equipment.

It wasn’t until 1996 that Kalamazoo Grills came into the picture… but with the backing of a long-standing history for unmatched quality.

This unusual start to becoming a grill manufacturer is what makes Kalamazoo Grills so unique. So while we’re on that note… let’s discuss these aspects in more detail.

Unique Aspects of Kalamazoo Grills

If you’ve seen a Kalamazoo grill in a showroom… you’ll know these grills have some serious visual presence!

There’s a reason for this… but there’s also some hidden gems when you look under the hood.

That said, let’s kick off the unique feature with looks.

Polished Welds

There’s no doubt about it… the polished, virtually seamless welds on a Kalamazoo grill are their standout feature.

And it harkens back to when Kalamazoo was dedicated to manufacturing dairy processing equipment.

Because when you’re making food-safe equipment… a perfect weld is actually essential.

Dairy processors need to be confident that their equipment is easy to clean, and won’t have imperfections that could harbor pathogens.

Kalamazoo never lost their touch with top-notch welding… and the evidence is found in every grill.

So yes, your grill is easier to clean! But the superior welding also acts as an added bulwark against rust and corrosion. There’s nowhere for moisture to sneak in.

We should also add that each Kalamazoo grill takes a full week to make. One week = one grill. No expenses are spared in the making of these grills!

So if you appreciate excellent craftsmanship… this feature alone will go a long way for you.

Better & More Even Heat Distribution

A common complaint with grilling is an unevenly heated grill surface.

Your burgers are scorched to a crisp on one end… and criminally underdone on the other.

It’s frustrating, for sure. But what can you do? You’re forced to work with the quirks on your grill… and adapt.

Except with a Kalamazoo grill.

Why?

Kalamazoo puts a great deal of distance between their grill grates and burners… in some cases, the grates could be nearly 12” above the burners!

Of course, most grill manufacturers like to keep these two elements close together. The more distance, the more heat is lost.

But on the contrary… the more distance, the more evenly your grill grates are being heated.

Kalamazoo compensates for this heat loss with superpowered burners. As for the result?

A far more even-keeled grilling experience than you’re used to.

Deep Firebox Design

A third unique feature of Kalamazoo’s grills are their deep firebox design.

If you pop the doors open on one of their freestanding grills… you’ll notice that the firebox structure extends down into the storage cabinet!

We don’t know about you… but we’ve never seen another freestanding grill set up this way.

And of course, it’s for a specific reason.

With all that extra volume below the grill… more airflow is encouraged to circulate throughout the housing.

This enhanced airflow creates a convection-like current through the grill… once again resulting in more even heating and an easier cooking experience.

All three of these unique features will be found across Kalamazoo’s grill line.

And speaking of their grill line… let’s take a closer look at what’s on offer.

Kalamazoo Grill Overviews

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet may not have a head-spinning amount of grill models… because they don’t need to.

Every grill is so expertly engineered… that they only need to produce a couple options in each category.

Let’s kick off this Kalamazoo Grill review with the hybrid model.

Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill Review

Possibly Kalamazoo’s most popular model… their Hybrid Fire grill is a formidable force in the grilling world.

Able to tackle gas, charcoal, and wood-fired grilling with equal expertise… this is the best grill for versatile outdoor cooks!

How are all these fuel options housed in a single unit?

The secret is in the Kalamazoo hybrid fire grilling drawer. This drawer sits above the burners… allowing the gas to ignite wood or charcoal when desired.

And if you’d rather have the quick convenience of gas… simply leave the tray empty and continue along as usual.

Other defining factors include Kalamazoo’s proprietary Dragon Burners, a barbecue burner for indirect cooking, and rotisserie system with infrared burner.

We’ll also mention that Kalamazoo’s Dragon Burners are aptly named. Dishing out 26,500 BTUs of heat per burner… these things may as well be breathing fire!

Other value-adds with the Hybrid Fire grill are luxury laser-cut grill grates, Sunbrella cover, and 304 stainless steel. (A 316 stainless upgrade is available for oceanside climates.)

Cart model or built-in models are available, with or without an added side burner.

Prices range from $21,995.00 – $41,375.00 depending on the option you choose. (Yes, you read those prices right!)

Kalamazoo Gaucho Grill Review

For the wood-fired purists out there… Kalamazoo’s Argentinian grill is truly a marvel to behold.

This gaucho grill has all the traditional nuts and bolts… but with a couple notable quality of life upgrades.

But we’ll start off with looks.

No doubt, the first thing you’ll notice about this grill is the massive 30” wheel. This wheel turns smoothly as butter… and allows you to precisely control the height of your grilling surface.

It’s a feature that will truly make your Argentinian grill a showpiece… bringing value far beyond just the utilitarian function.

But of course, the utilitarian functions on this 304 stainless steel grill are great too.

Kalamazoo’s gaucho grill includes laser cut grill grates… and a motorized built-in rotisserie that can support an entire suckling pig! (Luau, anyone?)

They’ve even eliminated the annoyance of starting a wood fire from scratch.

These Argentinian grills include gas powered starter burners… giving you a speedy jump start on your wood-fired dishes.

As with the Hybrid Grill, both built-in and freestanding options are available… with prices ranging from $31,855.00 to $40,995.00.

Echo Gas-Fired Grill Review

But perhaps you don’t geek out over wood-fired grilling.

If you prefer the classic no-nonsense style of straight gas grilling… there’s a Kalamazoo-shaped hole in your heart named the Echo.

Kalamazoo’s entry into the gas grill market doesn’t go over the top with needless bells and whistles. It does one thing… and it does that one thing well.

The Echo gas grill will come in 316 marine grade stainless steel by default… which is the gold standard in all climates.

Their ultra-powered U-shaped burners sit nearly 8” below the grill grates. Yet, you can easily hit 750°F on the grates for an impeccable sear.

And speaking of the grates… the Echo will come part and parcel with a set of crosshatch laser cut grates. This multipurpose design will leave stunning grill marks, no matter what you’re cooking.

Rotisserie chickens are on the menu, too. This Kalamazoo grill has a roof-mounted infrared burner and chain driven rotisserie system.

Plus, since the infrared burner is top-mounted, it can also double as a broiler.

Cleanup couldn’t be easier, either. The Echo’s cleanout tray is a sliding drawer that contains three heavy-duty stainless steel trays… all for catching grease and food bits.

Simply wash off the trays, insert back into the grill… and you’re good to go.

Once again, both freestanding and built-in units are offered with the Echo grill. Prices range from $18,995.00 to $27,995.00.

Shokunin Kamado Grill Review

Wrapping up Kalamazoo’s grill line… we have the Shokunin kamado grill.

Meaning “artisan” in Japanese, this grill is indeed an exemplary example of fine artistry!

The Shokunin functions essentially the same as any other kamado grill… but as is characteristic of Kalamazoo, with some thoughtful twists.

Rather than the traditional ceramic, the Shokunin kamado is made with 304 stainless steel. Of course, the 316 upgrade is available as well.

The handle and stand components are made from high-grade ipe wood. This type of wood is one of the hardiest against rot and harsh weather conditions.

2 inches of glass fiber insulation fill the grill walls… allowing for huge insulation potential. In fact, this grill can sustain a 250°F temperature for 65 hours with 12 lbs of charcoal!

And while a multi-day smoke isn’t something you’re likely to do… you’ll know an overnight brisket smoke will be safe until morning.

The Shokunin also features a unique multi-level cooking system. You can smoke, roast, or grill using three tiers of laser cut cooking grates.

You can even customize the airflow in this unit! There are two vents on either side of the hood… allowing you to create a crossflow effect, tailored to what you are cooking. The versatility of this charcoal grill is impressive indeed!

Kalamazoo thought about cleanup, too.

The Shokunin comes with a convenient ashtray at the very bottom of the unit. Instead of using a brush to scrape ashes out of a tiny opening… you simply pull the tray out, empty it, and place it back inside.

The Shokunin is currently only available as a freestanding model… and it’ll run you $11,225.00.

Is Kalamazoo Worth it?

Now here’s the million dollar question. (Or more accurately, the multi-thousand dollar question.)

Are Kalamazoo grills worth the price tag?

Well, here’s our seemingly non-committal response.

It depends… and here’s why.

There’s no other way to slice it… the craftsmanship on these grills is simply unimpeachable.

Every grill is handmade in Kalamazoo, Michigan… and each unit takes a full week to manufacture.

You will not find higher quality construction or engineering in any other grill brand!

And there’s no doubt the performance of these grills are as high-end as it gets.

But of course, there’s one huge caveat:

The price.

You can purchase a custom designed outdoor kitchen for the same price (or less) than a single Kalamazoo grill.

The stellar quality of these grills command a huge price tag… but if you’re at all restricted by a budget, Kalamazoo probably isn’t for you.

If these prices don’t make you wince, and you care greatly about fine details… Kalamazoo may be a great option for you.

If you’ve got the funds, you won’t be disappointed. Kalamazoo truly is the best-of-the-best.

But if you’d be blowing your entire outdoor kitchen budget on a single Kalamazoo grill… you’ll certainly be open to hearing about a worthy alternative.

A Worthy Alternative to Consider

Let’s say you’re looking for a set of high quality appliances… but you’re also conscious about getting a good deal.

Sound like you?

Well, then you’ll love Coyote Outdoor Living.

Coyote specializes in outdoor appliances that run the gamut from grilling, BBQ, refrigeration, pellet grills, pizza ovens, storage… and anything else you could think up for an outdoor kitchen.

These premium appliances don’t skimp on quality, either.

They may not be meticulously welded by a craftsman… but they are made with complete 304 stainless steel construction throughout. (Yes, the same material quality as Kalamazoo!)

Coyote grills are also engineered to perform better than most in-class appliances.

Most of their BBQ grills are outfitted with high-powered proprietary Infinity burners, for example.

These burners are similar in design to Kalamazoo’s dragon burners… and are meant to provide superior heat distribution and power over traditional tube burners.

And best of all?

All of Coyote’s appliances can be purchased at a fraction of the price compared to Kalamazoo.

In fact, with the leftover money you save… you can incorporate your appliances into a custom concrete outdoor kitchen!

Starting to get some big ideas?

If so, our free online design tool is the ideal place to start.

You can create a custom outdoor kitchen design in mere minutes… and get a feel for Coyote’s appliance line.

Have fun designing, and perhaps we’ll be in touch soon!

Weatherstrong Cabinets: 7 Top Considerations Before You Buy – RTA Outdoor Living

Gabrielle Desmarais — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 17:10:39 +0000

You want to get an outdoor kitchen… but there’s a problem.

You live in an area that’s got rough weather conditions. Whether it’s snowy winters, salty oceanside air, blistering high heat, or you’re in the hurricane belt… you might have just about given up on your outdoor kitchen dreams.

Because… what’s the point of spending all this time building an outdoor kitchen if the weather’s just going to ruin it in a couple years?

It’s a perfectly valid question.

You need an outdoor kitchen that’s strong in all environments. Something like… Weatherstrong, perhaps? (It’s right in the name, after all!)

Is Weatherstrong really as durable as they claim to be? Are they a great outdoor kitchen solution? Well, that’s what you’re about to find out.

In this article, you’ll encounter an in-depth review of Weatherstrong cabinets. And by the end… you should know if they’re the right fit for you or not.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Quick Links:

The Run-Down on Weatherstrong’s Construction Method
Finishes, Countertops, and Door Colors: What are Your Options?
Weatherstrong Appliance Selection: What’s Compatible?
Is Weatherstrong Built for All Weather Conditions? We Take a Closer Look
2 Safety Considerations You’re Not Thinking About
Weatherstrong Business Model: How Can You Order?
Weatherstrong Cabinets Reviews to Assist Your Decision
A Sleeker Alternative to Weatherstrong

Weatherstrong Construction Method

First and foremost… how does a Weatherstrong outdoor kitchen come together?

Weatherstrong is a modular outdoor kitchen solution.

And if you’re not familiar with modular islands… worry not, we’ll explain!

Unlike an outdoor kitchen that’s built from scratch from a contractor, piece by piece… modular islands are shipped to your door as units for personal installation.

They’re normally flat-packed, and you screw all the individual pieces together… just like you would for a set of indoor cabinets.

The modular system is also a little different in terms of design.

Rather than working with a designer to create a fully customized layouts… you’re limited to a select variety of units that you choose and arrange as desired.

That said, Weatherstrong is a bit more customizable than your typical modular outdoor kitchen.

While there are limitations on appliances and layouts… you do have access to quite a few finishes and door styles.

Speaking of which… let’s take a closer look at the aesthetic options.

Finish & Countertop Options

The functionality of your outdoor kitchen is important… but so are aesthetics!

If you don’t like the look of your outdoor kitchen… there’s not much point in continuing to pursue the project.

Thankfully, Weatherstrong offers quite a few styles that are likely to tickle your fancy.

Cabinet Styles

In total, Weatherstrong offers 4 unique cabinet styles: Daytona, Miami, Sanibel, and Tampa.

And really… the only differences seen here are on the door faces!

Some have more grooves… others have less grooves… and in the case of the Miami series, the door faces are perfectly smooth.

Overall, not much to report on here!

Finish Colors

Weatherstrong’s finish colors are where you can start to get dangerous.

They offer a set of “wood grain” or solid color finishes.

The wood grain options are just as they sound… they’re slightly mottled to appear like real wood.

In total, 7 wood grain hues are offered. These range from white, to beige, to gray, and nearly black. Teak, weatherwood, and whitewash appear to be 3 of the more popular options.

On the solid color side, there’s even more selections available… rounding up at a nice even 10.

Neutral tones match what you’ll find in the wood grain series… plus a couple shades of blue and a nice, emerald green. Shell white and pitch black appear to be the most popular hues in this style.

Countertops

Here’s where things get a little unclear.

Whether it’s on Weatherstrong’s website or a product page on Home Depot or Costco… there’s no mention of countertops anywhere.

Which leads us to believe that Weatherstrong does not include countertops with their product.

We can’t 100% verify this… so be sure to reach out to Weatherstrong if you’re considering a purchase.

If no countertops are included, that means you’ll have to source them yourself.

Is it the end of the world? Well, no. However, it is an additional step that introduces some more friction into the planning process.

But of course, your outdoor kitchen is more than just cabinets and countertops. What can you expect for appliance selections?

Looking for Something More Tailored to You?

Our free online design tool has everything you’re looking for in an outdoor kitchen... and more.

DESIGN NOW

Appliance Selections

When it comes to appliances… We must admit, Weatherstrong outdoor cabinetry is also quite vague on this front.

Normally, when you work with an outdoor kitchen company… they’ll let you know what appliance brands are compatible with their product.

In this case, there’s no indication of brand compatibility on their website. That said, cutout dimensions are made available… so you can do a little sleuthing to figure out if the grill you want to buy will fit in the structure.

At the same time, it’s also important to know what appliances Weatherstrong can actually accommodate.

Their online product guide only mentions having cabinets for grills, side burners, and kamado smokers… but pictures in the gallery reveal islands with sinks and refrigerators as well.

So you should be able to cover all the basics with your design… but once again, you’ll need to contact Weatherstrong for full details.

Still with us? Now, let’s take a gander at materials.

Weatherstrong Cabinets Materials

Is Weatherstrong truly weather-strong?

Unfortunately… things are still looking a bit dicey, even in this area.

With the way Weatherstrong talks about their outdoor kitchen cabinets… you would be led to believe that their islands are constructed with 100% HDPE (high density polyethylene).

Normally, we’d say this is a good sign. HDPE is a marine-grade material that is impervious to rust, corrosion, rot, insect damage… and other issues you would encounter with a wood or metal framed outdoor kitchen.

So what’s the problem here?

Well, these cabinets are not actually made from 100% HDPE.

If you hop on over to their web page titled “The Weatherstrong Difference”, you’ll see what we mean.

Only the door and drawer fronts are described as being made from HDPE.

Which leads you to wonder… what is the rest made from?

The remainder of your Weatherstrong cabinets will be made from 3/4” thick All‑Weatherboard® composite material.

Well that surely clears it up, doesn’t it? Doesn’t it?

To be honest, we’re scratching our heads at this too. That description is about as clear as mud.

In order to get the full answer, you’ll have to do a deep dive into their product guide.

Weatherstrong’s All-Weatherboard® composite material is “crafted from phenolic resins, zinc borate, wax, and wood fibers through a patented process”.

So basically… these cabinets are made from an MDF-type material.

They do at least coat these boards with waterproof PVC edging, but still… this is not a material that will perform even remotely well in the outdoor environment.

It likely won’t take much to punch through that coating, and when it happens… the interior composite material will be exposed to soak up water like a sponge.

This leads to swelling, warping, and quick deterioration of your base cabinets. Not exactly a recipe for success!

And to add insult to injury… we’ve got some serious safety concerns to address with these outdoor kitchens.

Weatherstrong Safety Considerations

Although it’s not spoken about often… it’s essential to consider the safety of your outdoor kitchen. (There are lots of things that could go wrong!)

If there’s no ventilation, your outdoor kitchen could explode from gas buildup… and you also must avoid outdoor kitchens that use combustible materials.

It’s the latter that Weatherstrong runs into some problems.

Remember that composite material we mentioned just a moment ago? It’s highly combustible. (The HDPE is too, but to a lesser extent.)

Which means if your grill gets too hot or you end up with a grease fire… your outdoor kitchen will easily catch flame as well and make the problem 100x worse.

So when it comes to Weatherstrong cabinetry, you’re literally playing with fire. For this reason alone… we believe Weatherstrong’s material choice is unsafe for use in an outdoor kitchen.

That said, we do have to give them credit for including ventilation in their cabinets. Most companies overlook the importance of this… and it’s good to see the need for ventilation recognized.

If you’re still not phased by the aforementioned safety concerns… let’s move forward to Weatherstrong’s business model.

Weatherstrong Business Model

When it comes to purchasing Weatherstrong outdoor cabinetry… there are two different routes you can go down.

You could seek out a dealer in your area, or buy a limited set of modules online. Costco, Home Depot, and Lowes are all online retailers that carry Weatherstrong cabinet boxes.

In fact, Weatherstrong has a unique relationship with Costco that allows you to design a custom island through them. (Only if you are a Costco member, however.)

If you’re not a Costco member or you just want to have a customized experience… it may be best to work with a dealer. Weatherstrong has a dealer locator on their website to help you narrow down the search.

But before you make your final decision… it’s always a smart idea to check out the reviews.

Want a More Hands-On Outdoor Kitchen Experience

Our suite of Design Experts are on-call and ready to assist.

BOOK A CALL

Weatherstrong Cabinets Reviews

As you know, an outdoor kitchen is no small investment!

With that in mind, it’s important to know what other Weatherstrong customers think about the product.

Unfortunately, Weatherstrong outdoor cabinets reviews are quite sparse. Most retailers don’t have reviews of the product… and there’s no trace of a Google reviews panel for the brand.

That said, there are 128 reviews on Costco’s page for their customizable product listing.

Currently, Weatherstrong is sitting at a 3.9 star rating on this listing… so we’d suggest scrolling through and coming to your own conclusions on the product.

And if you’re still feeling unsure about Weatherstrong cabinets … you may want to consider an alternative solution.

A Sleeker Alternative to Weatherstrong

Looking for something that’s a bit more weatherstrong, in the true sense of the word?

Then your ears are going to perk up when you hear about RTA’s line of modular outdoor kitchen cabinets.

In fact, our U.S.A. made MOKs line is a near-identical swap for Weatherstrong cabinets… just with an upgrade in materials and slightly different design.

MOKs islands are made with 100% marine-grade HDPE (no composite material here)!

Rain, snow, or shine… these outdoor kitchens will hold up beautifully no matter the weather.

So you’re getting the sleek, modern look of that HDPE polymer… without sacrificing quality with the rest of your island.

It’s true that you won’t get a choice of different door styles… but if you’re into the contemporary look, there’s a lot to love about the clean lines on MOKs.

You’re also able to select from 4 stylish colors that’ll make an undeniable pop in your backyard!

And of course, we make sure to keep your safety in mind. Every MOKs island comes with ample venting on all sides of the island… and will come with insulated jackets for all cooking appliances.

Although pre designed layouts are our standard offerings with MOKs… there is some customization potential if you work with a Design Expert.

And if you’re looking for something even more personalized…

Consider Concrete for Your Outdoor Kitchen

While MOKs is an excellent innovation in the outdoor kitchen space… our flagship line remains to be our concrete ready to assemble islands.

Our standard islands are constructed with 100% high performance concrete composite, that’s further reinforced with proprietary fibers… and topped with your choice of a concrete or granite countertop.

It’s about as rock-solid as it gets.

Whether you’re dealing with snowy nor’easters or coastal tropical storms… RTA’s concrete islands will resist and persist, no matter the climate.

Plus, concrete is a non-combustible material. So if the unexpected and unfortunate grease fire breaks out… there’s no worry of the fire spreading to the rest of your island.

And just like with MOKs… RTA’s concrete islands come with ample ventilation in 7 unique locations.

Which brings us to appliances. Both MOKs and standard RTA islands will come part and parcel with appliances from Coyote Outdoor Living.

This premium appliance line features complete 304 stainless steel construction throughout. So not only are they weather-hardy… they’re also heavy-duty and built to last!

These high-quality islands are also completely customizable. Our free online design tool will show you the depth of what’s possible… and our Design Experts can take you even further, if needed.

With RTA, there’s no need to compromise on your outdoor kitchen design. We do everything in our power to make your dream design come to life!

And of course, we can’t wrap this up without mentioning our limited lifetime warranty on the island structure. So for your peace of mind… rest assured that we stand by our product for the long haul!

Ready to take your outdoor living space to the next level? It only takes a few minutes to see what’s possible.

Give our free online design tool a whirl… and our design service will help you bring your dream outdoor kitchen to life!

Patio Islands, Bars, and Kits: 4 Best Brands & Ideas to Consider – RTA Outdoor Living

James King — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:20:06 +0000

Whether it’s the beginning of spring or the peak of summer… grilling and entertaining is the height of outdoor living.

And while a freestanding grill is a decent way to satisfy your BBQ cravings… the experience doesn’t hit its pinnacle until you have a patio island.

Hence, why you’ve landed on this very article.

A patio island is an excellent addition to your backyard space… but it raises a ton of questions.

What type of patio island do you want?

Who should you buy one from?

What are your design and layout options?

All of these are great questions… that all deserve a detailed, thought-out answer. (Which you’ll receive in this article!)

Who are we to talk?

Well, we live and breathe outdoor kitchens! We’ve designed and built thousands of patio islands over the years… as well as deeply analyzed grill island offerings from other brands. Immersion in the outdoor kitchen space is what we do best.

With all that said… let’s get started.

Quick Links:

What Type of Patio Island Should You Buy? 3 Different Setup Options
4 Patio Island Kit Brands for Your Consideration
3 Never-Before-Seen Patio Island Ideas
Feeling Overwhelmed? Get Started Here

3 Types of Patio Islands

Before you jump in full steam ahead on your patio island project… you first must decide what kind of patio island you’d like.

Thankfully, after hearing the description of each kind… it’ll be pretty easy to know what type piques your interest.

Grill Island

Otherwise known as an outdoor kitchen or a BBQ grill island… this is the option that most likely came to mind first.

It’s an outdoor island with a grill inside (or some other cooking appliance).

That’s it!

But a grill island can be much more than this bare-bones definition. It can include a kamado or pellet grill rather than natural gas… and it can include other appliances like side burners, flat tops, access doors, or storage drawers.

No matter how much you choose to deck out your grill island… if you’re primarily focused on grilling, this kitchen design is likely the right choice for you.

But what if you prefer making a drink over flipping burgers?

Bar Island

If you’re more of an entertainer rather than a BBQ enthusiast… for you, it’s going to be all about the bar island.

Whether you’re shaking up cocktails… grabbing a cold one from the fridge… or just pulling up a stool to enjoy a summer night with your friends… a bar island’s going to be the ticket for you.

But what is it, exactly?

Well, it means something different to pretty much everyone.

An outdoor bar could be as simple as a plain outdoor kitchen island, with no appliances or anything… but that’s pretty bare-bones.

In most cases, a bar island involves some storage and an outdoor rated refrigerator… and possibly an outdoor sink to make bartending easier.

You’ll notice there’s no cooking appliances in this setup. If you want the best of both worlds, consider an…

Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Love to entertain and grill? In that case, your dream patio island will come in the form of an outdoor kitchen bar.

It’s a grill island and a bar island, all-in-one!

Typically, an outdoor kitchen bar will form an L shaped layout. You have a dedicated grill island on one end… and a dedicated bar island on the other.

Of course, you can mix-and-match your bar and grill accessories between the two as you wish. It all comes down to personal preference.

Now that you’ve got a baseline for the different patio island types… How about we take a look at some island bundles for purchase?

Not Sure What Kind of Patio Island You Want?

Our free online design tool will allow you to customize to your heart’s content.

DESIGN NOW

Patio Island Kits

The quickest way to get up and running is with an outdoor kitchen kit or modular outdoor kitchen package. With these options, you won’t have to worry about coordinating with a contractor or becoming a DIY aficionado. Which means… you’re grilling and chilling with your loved ones as quickly as possible. So let’s check out some of these outdoor products, shall we?

Mont Alpi

Mont Alpi is a well-known modular outdoor kitchen brand… offering a small set of predesigned islands.

All of their islands are made with 304 stainless steel and come with a simple lineup of appliances.

Stainless steel islands are known to get super hot under the sun… and may not be the ideal choice for coastal climates.

304 stainless steel is highly rust and corrosion resistant, yes! However, it’s a bit risky to have a 100% steel island that’s constantly exposed to salty ocean air.

But if you don’t live directly on the shoreline… these outdoor kitchens are decently durable.

With those caveats covered, let’s take a brief look at some Mont Alpi patio islands.

Mont Alpi Propane Gas Grill Island

Product Highlights

Warranty

Lifetime

Finish

Stainless Steel

price

$4,131.55

For a simple, no-frills patio island… you may like the look of Mont Alpi’s 805 propane gas outdoor kitchen.

This layout comes with a large, 6 burner gas grill fit to feed an army… and a small, integrated sear burner on the side for cooking a juicy steak. (Plus a rotisserie kit!)

Each tube burner is 12,000 BTUs, pumping out a total of 72,000 BTUs.

The center of the island offers double drawer storage… and the right side of the unit comes with a set of shelved cabinetry.

No crazy bells and whistles, here! This grill cabinet’s got you covered for your basic entertaining needs.

You can currently purchase this patio island on BBQGuys for $4,131.55.

Mont Alpi Beverage Center & Bar Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

Finish

Stainless Steel, Black Stainless Steel

price

$3,609.05

How about a patio island that can just be used as a bar? Mont Alpi has that, too.

Decked out in a stylish black stainless steel… this bar island lets you bartend at home with some serious class!

You’ve got an under counter sink for rinsing off cutting boards and washing hands… and two glass door refrigerators to keep your stash pleasantly cool.

The only thing that’s missing here is a little bit of storage! A simple drawer to stow away your cocktail making kit would significantly increase the convenience… but you can’t have everything, right? (You can, but that comes later!)

You can purchase this little L shaped patio island for $3,609.05 on BBQGuys.

Mont Alpi Linear Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

Stainless Steel, Black Stainless Steel

price

$6,368.05

Can’t decide between a BBQ island and a regular bar island? Why not both?

Get the best of both worlds with this extra-long outdoor patio island from Mont Alpi.

This layout includes the same 6 burner gas grill and sear burner that you saw earlier… but with a few extra accessories.

You’ve got a small outdoor sink, mini fridge, drawer storage, and a cabinet.

Essentially, it’s the grill island and bar island we just reviewed smashed into a single unit.

Pretty neat, right?

And if you don’t love the look of this layout… Mont Alpi also sells individual modules for slight mixing-and-matching.

This island is available for purchase on BBQGuys for $6,368.05.

Bull

Primarily known for their line of outdoor grills… Bull also sells a modest line of prefabricated outdoor kitchens. (These are islands that are pre-constructed.)

You can choose from their classic, “Regular Program” line or their newer “DuraBull” line.

The Regular Program is cheaper… made with steel frames, cement board, and a quartzite or stucco finish. These materials are prone to rust, corrosion, water damage, and cracking over time.

So while you may save a bit of cash upfront… you’re likely to be disappointed with the longevity of your investment.

Hence, why Bull now offers their beefed up “DuraBull” outdoor kitchen line. These outdoor kitchen cabinets are instead made with HDPE. This is a type of plastic that is well-suited to the outdoor environment. (With a meaningful difference in price to account for this, of course!)

That said, let’s take a peek at some patio kitchen islands from Bull.

Bull Patio Q Grill Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited

finish

Quartzite

price

$5,928.00

Short on space? This little outdoor patio grill island could fit just about anywhere!

Equipped with a modest, 4 burner grill and mini bar top… you can grill and prep with ease!

You’ll also note a small access door underneath the grill to access the interior of your island.

And that’s about all there is to it! The finish is available in 5 colors, and will come with a tile countertop. (We won’t get into the details here, but we recommend steering away from tile.)

Currently, the Patio Q island is priced at $5,928.00 on Bull’s website.

Bull Augusta Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited

finish

Quartzite

price

$22,999.00

Wait… what happened to the “outdoor bar” category for Bull?

Well, Bull doesn’t offer a design that we’d classify as a standalone outdoor bar. So in this case, we’re skipping straight to the outdoor kitchen bar.

And it’s surely a beaut!

Coming from Bull’s DuraBull line… this large L shaped island is a great foundation for entertaining outdoors.

This design features a 4 burner gas grill dishing out 75,000 BTUs, an outdoor refrigerator… and plenty of storage space spread out amongst the cabinets.

If you just need a grill, a fridge, and plenty of space for guests to sit… there’s not much to complain about with this layout!

At the time of writing, you can purchase the Augusta 10’ kitchen for $22,999.00.

Newage

Newage is a prominent modular outdoor kitchen manufacturer… but they are also well known for their line of garage storage products and outdoor furniture.

When it comes to patio islands… Newage primarily sells individual cabinet units that you can arrange yourself to create a design.

However, they do have some predesigned layouts available that we’ll take a look at.

Newage’s outdoor kitchens will either be constructed from 304 stainless steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. (These will have the same downsides as Mont Alpi that we mentioned earlier.)

It’s also worth noting that not all of Newage’s product listings come with a countertop. If you want the stainless steel countertop included… be sure to double check the item you’re ordering!

Let’s take a closer look.

Newage 5 Piece Grill Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$5,809.99

Grill on one side, and prep on the other side with this offset patio island setup!

This layout comes with a 3-burner, 36,000 BTU liquid propane grill, and plenty of storage.

With a set of triple drawers and extra access doors… you’ll have no shortage of space to stow away your BBQ utensils.

And that’s really all there is to it!

At the time of writing, this patio BBQ island goes for a $5,809.99 MSRP.

Newage Aluminum 5 Piece Patio Bar Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$4,219.99

For those of you seeking a simple bar island… you’ll appreciate the grayscale hues on this selection from Newage.

The aircraft-grade aluminum has a pleasing slate gray shade… subtly contrasted with the pure stainless steel hardware, countertops, and refrigerator.

The refrigerator does most of the heavy lifting for your entertaining purposes, of course. But the cabinet and drawer storage can be well utilized for storing wine glasses, napkins, and other bar accessories.

You can purchase this setup on Newage’s website for a $4,219.99 MSRP.

Newage 5 Piece Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$6,119.99

Wrapping up the examples from NewAge… we’ve got their 5 piece (seeing a theme?) outdoor kitchen bar island.

This is another uncomplicated setup for the no-frills entertainer!

This linear patio island includes a 33”, 36”, or 40” built-in grill (with 61,500 – 78,000 BTUs), an outdoor sink… and an abundance of cabinet storage.

Admittedly, there isn’t much room for guests to be seated and enjoy a drink. So if you want more counter space, you may consider adding more modules.

But if this setup is looking just right to you… you can purchase it on Newage’s website for $6,119.99.

Looking for Something More Robust?

Start designing your custom patio island... constructed with pure high performance and weather resistant concrete.

START YOUR DESIGN

RTA Outdoor Living

Now that you’ve seen some selections from a few popular brands… let’s finish out the review with something completely different.

Our ready to assemble outdoor kitchens.

Instead of modular units that you mix-and-match together… RTA islands arrive to your door as solid, high performance concrete panels.

The finish is integrated right into the structure, and in a few hours… you have a complete, all-weather hardy outdoor kitchen that’s ready to grill.

We have a selection of pre-designed islands that reflect our most popular layouts… but you can also fully customize your patio island with our free online design tool.

That said, let’s take a peek at some prime patio island kits.

RTA Grill Island with Power Burner

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$11,195.00

Need to maximize your cooking potential? Look no further than this linear grill island… packed to the gills with a premium grill and aptly-named power burner.

The 36” Coyote grill dishes out 80,000 BTUs of flaming heat… and the power burner can shell out an additional 60,000 BTUs.

So while you’re cooking burgers or searing a steak… you can whip up a side dish at the same time.

And in no time at all, dinner’s served!

You can purchase this outdoor kitchen kit on our site for $11,195.00.

RTA Bar Island with Refreshment Center

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$7,795.00

Easily entertain friends and family with the help of our 7’ refreshment bar island!

Our bar islands sit at a taller height compared to most other brands… allowing you to slide a bar stool under the counter for more comfortable seating.

But that’s not the only benefit!

This patio island comes part and parcel with a full-on refreshment center. This little accessory is far more than just an outdoor sink… it also has an integrated drop-in cooler, condiment tray, cutting board, bottle rack, bottle opener, and a towel holder!

That’s a ton of versatility in a single appliance… So pop open a drink and let the good times roll!

This bar island is currently available for purchase for $7,795.00.

RTA Premium Outdoor Kitchen Bar with Fridge and Pull Out Trash

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$18,389.00

Let’s wrap up this list with a patio island kit that truly takes the cake.

For all your grilling and chilling needs… there’s nothing this L shaped outdoor kitchen can’t do!

The 36” grill with an 80,000 BTU output is your reliable grilling machine… while the refrigerator, refreshment center, and pull out trash bin do the heavy lifting for your hosting needs.

Need to rinse your hands? No problem.

Need to grab a cold drink? It’s right there.

Got some trash that needs to be cleaned up? Make it disappear in seconds.

All in all, this outdoor kitchen design is a surefire way to stress-free hosting.

You can purchase this patio island kit for $18,389.00 on our website.

Patio Island Ideas

Before you go off to continue your research… let’s go beyond window shopping, and get into a little design inspiration.

Because the reality is… the patio island of your dreams may not be found in a kit.

So to whet your designer appetite, get inspired by these 3 layouts.

1. Galley Patio Island with All the Fixings

If you want to go all-out on your outdoor cooking setup… few things will appeal to you more than this galley design.

It’s fully packed with every appliance you could imagine!

You’ve got your standard gas grill, a kamado smoker, a pizza oven, a set of dual side burners… and even an Argentinian grill! (You don’t see those very often.)

With all the incredible food you’ll be making, you need some extra workspace! Hence, where the bar island comes into play.

That wide-open countertop provides plenty of play for food prep… and also doubles as a serving station when you’re ready to plate your delightful dishes.

In our minds, this design doesn’t get better for the true outdoor chef.

2. U Shaped Patio Island Idea Fit for a Feast

Let’s look at another outdoor kitchen design that’s larger than life.

There’s not quite so many cooking appliances here, but there’s still plenty to rave about!

You’ve got a deluxe grill with an integrated sear burner, flat top griddle, pizza oven, and a sleek kamado smoker.

Breakfast al fresco and pizza for dinner, anyone?

And to assist with your entertaining pursuits… you’ve got an outdoor sink, refrigerator, pull out trash, and an open bar top.

While you’re making a pizza, your friends are right there at the bar with you… so you won’t miss a second of the conversation!

What can we say? It’s the complete package.

3. Small Patio Kitchen Island Idea

For our final snippet of design inspiration… let’s dial it back with this modest L shaped layout.

This outdoor kitchen is equipped with all the amenities you would normally expect… just on a smaller scale.

The miniature 2-burner grill is great for the small family of 2-3… and the same goes for that teeny kamado smoker!

Plus, there’s still room leftover for a bit of storage and a pull out trash bin.

Pull up a bar stool, enjoy your burger right outside… and feel free to pop open the umbrella if the sun is beating down too hard.

You know what? Good things do come in small packages.

So now that you’ve got a plethora of patio island ideas dancing in your mind… where do you begin?

This Patio Island Solution is a Dream

At this stage… you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to start.

Well, allow us to ease your worries… because the first step is simple.

Start with creating a custom patio island design!

There’s even a free tool available for you to use… so there’s no need to shell out any of your hard-earned cash.

Our free online design tool allows you to create a fully personalized patio island design in mere minutes.

Just click through the steps, pick out what looks good to you, and at the end… you’ll be greeted with a 3D rendering of the design you just created.

And if you have a smartphone, you can even see what it will look like in your backyard!

The design tool also comes equipped with an AR (augmented reality) feature. Through the camera app on your phone… your design will pop up on the screen as if it’s really in your backyard.

Pretty impressive, right?

Give it a try, let us know how it goes… and we’ll be in touch.

Looking for More Assistance?

Our team of Design Experts is waiting in the wings to answer your most burning outdoor kitchen questions

BOOK A FREE CALL

Jessica Alba’s Honest Renovations Works on a Project Close to Home

Jordan Marie Diggs — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 19:53:55 +0000

If you’re a fan of Jessica Alba and the Honest Renovations TV show… you simply cannot miss this project that Jessica and Lizzy Mathis just unveiled!

And it’s unlike any other home renovation this dynamic duo has done before.

You could even say… it hits close to home.

A few years ago, Jessica Alba secretly purchased her father’s childhood family home. Since 2021, Jessica and Lizzy have been working hard on a complete home makeover… so Jessica could gift this well-loved home to her parents with a whole new look.

This home was a fixer upper in every sense of the term, too. The entire interior was gutted and overhauled… but there’s still traces left of the original home.

Oak wood from the property was salvaged and repurposed in the brand-new interior design. (What’s old is new again, as they say!)

But of course, for us… the real crowning jewel of this home improvement project took place in the backyard.

And we must say… it’s an absolute show-stopper.

This unique design features two separate islands in different locations, keeping entertainment top-of-mind for everyone at the party.

One island includes a large, Italian-made wood-fired pizza oven and a refrigerator… while the other features a large Coyote gas grill, power burner, and bar seating.

Jessica opted for a sleek and modern charcoal plank finish on both islands… which are tastefully accented with marbled white granite countertops.

Jessica’s parents are over the moon with their new setup, and we couldn’t be more honored to help them entertain and enjoy their new home to the fullest!

Outdoor Quartz Countertops: Suitable for the Outdoors? Our Verdict & 3 Suggestions – RTA Outdoor Living

Daniel Cdebaca — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 18:31:30 +0000

With all the factors that go into designing a fully functional backyard space… Few features are so hotly contested as the countertops on an outdoor kitchen.

Should you go natural or manmade?

Is it going to stain easily?

What about scratches?

And that’s not even getting into the limitless expanse of finish options… Which could become a full-length article in and of themselves.

But for the moment, your focus is honed in on outdoor quartz countertops.

In this blog, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to decide if quartz tops are right for you. (Or not!)

As a company that manufactures concrete countertops (and works closely with a granite fabricator) for our outdoor kitchens… We have some insider perspectives to weigh in on the issue.

So with all that said… Let’s get started.

Quick Links:

The Homeowner’s Guide to Quartz Countertops
O3 Impressive Functionality Benefits of Quartz Tops
…And 3 Disappointing Downsides
Are Quartz Countertops Good for Outdoors? We Give Our Verdict
Our Top 3 Suggestions for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
The Most Luxurious Outdoor Kitchen to Pair with Your Countertops

Are Quartz Countertops Pure Quartz?

First things first… Let’s get this subject crystal clear (pun intended).

If you’re not super familiar with quartz countertops… It may be assumed that they’re mined from slabs of quartz. (Like a large-scale version of the quartz points you find at your local gem store or mineral museum.)

That’s not what a quartz countertop is, though!

A slab of pure, unadulterated quartz used for a countertop is actually known as quartzite. Confusing, we know.

When you hear someone talking about a quartz countertop… What they’re actually talking about is a manufactured product.

Crushed quartz is mixed with resins, polymers, and pigments in order to create a countertop surface.

Depending on the brand you choose to work with… You can expect to see 90% – 95% crushed quartz used in the formulation.

All in all, there’s not much other “foreign material” in there. But as you’ll see… This makes a huge impact on quartz tops for outdoor use.

For now, let’s start with the upsides.

Advantages of Outdoor Quartz Countertops

Of course, there’s a reason why outdoor quartz countertops are appealing to you. So to begin the conversation… Let’s outline some benefits of quartz surfaces.

1. They are Extremely Stain Resistant

Just like how you despise dealing with grass and coffee stains in your laundry… Same goes with getting your lustrous, brand-new countertop stained.

Is there really anything more frustrating?

Thankfully, quartz countertops are among the most stain resistant surfaces out there.

Quartz countertops are nonporous… Which means they don’t absorb water when they come in contact with it.

Just grab a dish towel or soapy water… Sop it up… And move on with your day, without a worry of permanently staining your countertop.

2. They’re Also Highly Chip & Scratch Resistant

On top of that… Quartz is a hardy mineral with great accessibility.

Scoring a 7/10 on the Mohs hardness scale... Even scraping a steel nail (scored at 6.5) across a quartz top won’t leave a scratch, literally.

So to say that quartz countertops give you peace of mind in this area is an understatement!

You can slice and dice with abandon on your quartz tops… Worry-free about the thought of accidentally marring your countertops with a stray knife cut.

3. And Super Low Maintenance

And to “top” it all off… Quartz outdoor countertops couldn’t be easier to maintain.

Why is this?

Due to the production process and natural properties of quartz… These countertops generally don’t need to be resealed.

That beautiful, polished finish you see is set for life!

And although these are some pretty appealing benefits of quartz… We do have some concerning disadvantages to share.

Drawbacks of Outdoor Quartz Countertops

Unfortunately, as with anything… It’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

There are some significant drawbacks when it comes to quartz countertops. So let’s not further delay… And get right into it

1. UV Protection is a Pitfall

When it comes to interior kitchen design… UV generally isn’t a consideration for quartz countertop installation.

Direct sunlight gets filtered through your windows… Which doesn’t leave much potential for UV damage.

However… You’re planning to install outdoor kitchen quartz countertops.

Therefore, the question of UV resistance becomes far more important.

Your outdoor kitchen countertops will be getting hit with direct sunlight day in… And day out.

Of course, you’re well-aware of the bleaching abilities of the sun.

Which leads us to the question… “How does quartz hold up to UV rays?”

Well… Not great.

Quartz is one of the worst offenders when it comes to UV related discoloration.

Lighter shades tend to yellow in the sun… And darker shades get lighter from the constant exposure.

One way to combat this is to add a shade structure to your outdoor kitchen space. But when there’s so many other viable options that don’t carry this risk… Is it really worth the extra trouble?

2. Be Careful with Heat!

And speaking of extra trouble… They might not scratch easily, but you can’t use your quartz tops with reckless abandon.

Why?

Heat is a weak point.

Due to the fact that quartz countertops are a mixture of crushed quartz, resins, and other polymers… These “additives” are not particularly heat resistant.

So if you take a pot right off your side burner and put it directly on the countertop… That high heat can weaken the bond that’s holding your countertop together.

Yikes.

Of course, the easy solution is to always make sure you use a trivet… But it’s also nice to have that peace of mind that you don’t need to use a trivet.

Not to mention… It does raise additional concern if you live in a hot climate with lots of brilliant sunlight. Is that alone causing your countertop to weaken, day after day?

Which leads us to our final point.

3. They Aren’t 100% Natural

This may be the weakest point of the bunch… But it’s worth mentioning for those who are highly material conscious.

As we’ve established, quartz countertops aren’t 100% natural. They’re not mined from a pure slab of mineral… Which can be a turn-off for a couple reasons.

For one… They won’t have that unique, one-of-a-kind look.

Some people may prefer the standardized finish that a quartz countertop will provide. But if you appreciate the distinctive look of natural stone… This will come to be a bit of a disappointment.

Furthermore, you just might not love the idea of having “filler” ingredients in your countertop.

All that said, let’s get to the million dollar question.

So... Should You Use Quartz for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops?

When the chips are down… Should you use quartz for your outdoor kitchen countertops?

For us, the answer is a resounding no.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of quartz (or quartzite) countertops are simply not suitable for outdoor use.

Are the benefits great? Yes! However… There are plenty of better material choices that don’t come with the same pitfalls as quartz.

We also have some personal experience with customers using quartzite tops… And they ended up breaking! Obviously, that’s an outdoor kitchen nightmare you want to avoid.

So it’s settled, then. We’re going to steer clear of quartz, but… What are your other options?

Your 3 Best Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Options

Thankfully, there are plenty of excellent countertop materials available in lieu of quartz.

And in fact… The first potential suggestion is made from quartz. (It’s not at all like the quartz we don’t recommend!)

If You’re Dead-Set on Quartz

If you’re dead-set on quartz tops and nothing else will do… There actually is a quartz countertop brand worth looking into.

Caesarstone pioneered quartz countertops… And to date, they’re one of the only companies that’s been able to temper some of the inherent disadvantages with this material.

Their outdoor-rated line in particular is what we’re referring to here.

It’s UV resistant, which takes care of the discoloration issue… And they’ve also been rigorously tested to withstand the outdoor environment.

They’re built for outdoor temperatures ranging from -13°F to 122°F… Which is a comfortable range for most of the country. (Keep it out of Death Valley, though!)

That said, overall heat resistance is still a downside for Caesarstone. It’s a higher tolerance than other brands, but if you’ve got a hot pot… You’ll still want to use a trivet, just in case.

If You Like the Natural Look

What if you’re all about the natural look?

That’s when it’s time to turn your attention to the classics. There’s an abundance of pure stone options available. Soapstone, marble, granite…

But of these, the one we find rises above the rest is granite.

Compared to other natural countertop options… Granite is among the most dense and resilient stones out there.

The hardness of granite ranges from 6-7/10 on the Mohs scale depending on who you ask… Keeping it right in line with the hardness of quartz.

As a result, granite is highly scratch resistant. And being a nonporous material… You also won’t have to fret about stains from a spilled glass of wine.

And better yet? Heat resistance is not a problem, here! Feel free to fill up the countertop with hot pots and plates without hesitation. (It feels wrong, but it’s so right!)

But if you’re going for a more modern, industrial look…

If You Like the Industrial Look

Concrete countertops might be more your style.

Depending on the type of concrete you get… They’re just as durable as granite and quartz.

Most concrete will sit somewhere between 5-7/10 on the Mohs hardness scale.

If your concrete is a little softer… You’ll want to be more careful. A stray knife cut could scratch the surface!

Another slight ding on concrete is that it’s more porous than granite or quartz… Making it less resistant to staining as well.

Thankfully, this effect can be well-mitigated! Once every year or two, seal your concrete tops with a food safe sealer.

This will make your concrete tops more hydrophobic… And thus, more resistant to stains.

Beyond this, concrete is plenty hardy to the outdoor environment. There’s a reason it’s used for foundations, sidewalks, and all manner of other industrial structures, after all!

It handles freeze thaw cycles like a champ… And heat concerns will be a non-issue.

Plus, you get that distressed, industrial look… Which is a shoo-in for modern outdoor kitchen designs.

Speaking of the outdoor kitchen… It might be time to wrap up with a friendly suggestion.

The Most Impressive Outdoor Kitchen to Pair with Your Countertops

Your outdoor countertops are nothing without a beautiful outdoor kitchen to pair it with.

Typically, you’ll have already decided on your island structure before choosing countertops. But in case you’re not 100% sold… Allow us to share a recommendation with you.

You want an outdoor kitchen that’s made to last the long haul, right? That’s why you’ve been spending all this time researching quartz countertops.

And if you’re after the longest-lasting BBQ island on the market… It’s got to be an RTA outdoor kitchen, or bust.

Why are we so confident?

A couple reasons.

For one, every RTA outdoor kitchen is made with 100 year rated high performance concrete.

Which means your outdoor kitchen will actually last for generations.

No matter the season of life you’re in, or the season outside… Your RTA outdoor kitchen will persist, year after year.

But these aren’t just empty words. We put our money where our mouth is with a lifetime structural warranty.

So rest assured… You’re covered from all angles.

Not to mention, RTA is a single-source solution. We provide your selected premium appliances from Coyote Outdoor Living… And of course, your choice of high-quality concrete or granite countertops.

Curious about how to get started on transforming your outdoor space?

We have a free 3D design tool and visualizer that’s the perfect place to start. You can design your dream outdoor kitchen to a T… And begin the process of bringing your outdoor living space to life.

So start designing… And we’ll look forward to building your DIY outdoor kitchen!

FAQ

Can a Quartz Counter be Used Outdoors?

While you can use quartz countertops outdoors… It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. Most retailers manufacture quartz tops that are not suitable for outdoor use. If you can’t live without quartz… Caesarstone makes outdoor rated quartz countertops for outdoor kitchens.

What Quartz Can be Used Outdoors?

Caesarstone has an outdoor-rated line of quartz countertops that is suitable for outdoor use.

Is Quartz Safe Outside?

Quartz is “safe” to use in the sense that your health won’t be endangered by using them… But they aren’t the best choice for outdoor use, regardless. They’re generally manufactured for interior designs… And as a result, aren’t made to withstand the rigors of the outdoor environment. They discolor with constant UV exposure, and are sensitive to heat… Which is not a good combo for an outdoor countertop!

Is Quartz or Marble Better for Outside?

Neither quartz nor marble are ideal materials for outdoor countertops. Quartz discolors under the sun… And marble is a soft material that scratches easily.

Covered Outdoor Kitchen: 15 Stunning Ideas & How to Choose – RTA Outdoor Living

Jordan Marie Diggs — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:43:05 +0000

It’s no secret that an outdoor kitchen is the crowning jewel of your backyard space.

And once you’ve spent a few grilling sessions al fresco… You’ll want to be cooking up a storm out there as much as possible.

But there’s one thing that could get in the way of on-demand BBQ…

Good ol’ Mother Nature.

Thankfully, if you want to be grilling year round, rain or shine… There’s a simple solution.

Get yourself a covered outdoor kitchen!

And as you embark on the journey of covering your island… There are several options at your disposal to consider.

We’ve installed outdoor kitchens under every kind of cover… And along the way, we’ve learned a thing or two.

In this article, you’ll learn about all your options for a covered outdoor kitchen structure… And wrap up with some impressive ideas for your inspiration.

Quick Links:

What Should Cover Your Outdoor Kitchen? Discussion of 4 Different Types
15 Covered Outdoor Kitchen Ideas for Your Shady Sanctuary
Ready for Your Covered Outdoor Kitchen? Here’s Step One

Types of Covered Outdoor Kitchens

It’s all about options… So that’s what we’re going to kick off with.

Which type of covered outdoor kitchen is best?

Let’s find out together.

Pergolas

If you love the feel of open air and sun all around you… A pergola might be the perfect covering for your outdoor kitchen.

This shade structure is the most easy-breezy of all. With criss cross slats across the top, allowing plenty of sunshine to push through.

So… How exactly do pergolas offer some weather protection?

Without any additions, we must admit… A pergola is mainly an aesthetic choice.

However…

You can modify your pergola to protect your outdoor kitchen from rain and hail.

Just cover your pergola!

Many companies offer transparent, waterproof covers that fit snugly on top of your pergola.

So you’re protected from wet weather… And can still enjoy the boho vibe a pergola brings.

Now, what if you would prefer full coverage?

Pavilions / Gazebos

Another super common outdoor structure would be a pavilion or a gazebo.

What’s the difference?

Well, it’s like how a square is always a rectangle… But a rectangle is not always a square.

Nearly any open air outdoor structure with a pitched roof could be described as a pavilion.

For a gazebo… It’s the same, but they are generally specified as being octagonal in shape.

Most often, you’ll find them made with hardwood… Which lends itself to a lovely, rustic farmhouse aesthetic.

You can find more modern, flat-roofed versions out there as well. However, these minimalist designs are far less common.

A pavilion or gazebo would be great for someone who wants full shade over their outdoor kitchen… But also wants to maintain the breeziness of open air.

But perhaps, you may be interested in something a little closer to home.

California Rooms

California rooms are a unique type of outdoor kitchen covering… Affording you the convenience of outdoor entertaining, just a few steps from your back door.

What is it, exactly?

It’s essentially an extended patio cover. It juts out directly off the back or side of your house… Covering your back patio.

California rooms are known for having enclosed walls on either side… Blurring the lines between an indoor and outdoor space.

This makes them a great outdoor kitchen cover for a few reasons.

For one… It blocks out wind, rain, and other nasty weather that keeps you from using your outdoor kitchen.

But it also allows you to keep your outdoor kitchen close to your house. If you forget to bring some things outside… It’s not a big deal to hop in, grab them, and continue grilling.

Even better… Your outdoor furniture is well protected under the cover of a California room. Enjoy the tranquility of an outdoor dining area, free from worry about passing showers.

Need even more coverage? Well… Let’s jump to the East coast, because a Florida room’s going to be the ticket.

Florida Rooms

If you like the feeling of being outside… But don’t actually want to be outside, a Florida room gives you the best of both worlds.

Depending on your preference, these structures are fully enclosed sunrooms or screen rooms.

In the Northeast, you’ll typically see them more often as a sunroom… With either a glass or traditional ceiling.

This setup is ideal if you live in a cold climate, and want the opportunity for year round grilling. It’s weatherproof, and can be fully temperature controlled. (What could be better?)

If you still want the feeling of fresh air on your skin… You may prefer the Southeast version, which is more of a screen room.

It keeps the bugs out, provides a high amount of weather protection… But you can still catch a whiff of that fresh, outdoor air.

There is a caveat with Florida rooms, however.

Due to the fact that this space will be fully enclosed… That can pose problems for safety when cooking.

Why?

Your outdoor kitchen needs ventilation in order to be safe to operate.

So in addition to making sure your island is properly ventilated… You’ll want to make sure you have a non-combustible backsplash behind the grill, and a vent hood installed overhead.

It’s not a deal breaker, by any means! You just have to be sure to plan ahead properly.

And now that you’ve gotten a taste of some different structure options… Let’s take a peek at some covered outdoor kitchen designs.

Jaw-Dropping Backyard Covered Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

We can theory-craft all day about different kinds of outdoor kitchen covers... And which one might be best for you.

But at the end of the day…

It doesn’t matter much if you don’t see something that makes you inspired.

With that said, let’s peruse some outstanding covered outdoor kitchen plans!

1. Covered Patio Outdoor Kitchen Under Pavilion

Let’s start with a setup that’s livin’ large… Literally.

This L-shaped outdoor kitchen has got just about everything under the sun. (Except, it’s not under the sun!)

The massive overhead pavilion is painted in a lovely rust color… Adding to the overall rustic aesthetic of the space.

But let’s zoom in on the functionality of this roof, for a moment.

You’ll find many examples where just the kitchen, or even only a portion of it, is covered.

If that’s all your budget allows for, or if you have tight space requirements… There’s nothing wrong with that!

What we love about this example is there’s no skimping on space. This homeowner had the room to let their pavilion sprawl… And sprawl it did!

There’s complete coverage for the resident chef… As well as for guests who would like to dine at the bar island.

2. Outdoor Kitchen Covered Patio Idea

Already have a covered patio that’s ready for an outdoor kitchen?

Or maybe…

You just want your outdoor kitchen “close to home”?

Either way, this is a great idea to glean inspiration from.

This homeowner has a full on covered back porch… Ideal for all your favored backyard pursuits.

Of course, the outdoor kitchen is the star of this setup!

The L-shape of this design is neatly tucked under the roof… Providing complete rain protection during a stray storm or two.

And since this homeowner’s got the space… There’s even a completely covered seating area off to the other side.

Enjoy the perks of your outdoor cooking space… Without fear of getting drenched. (Let out that sigh of relief!)

3. Easy Breezy Pergola Outdoor Kitchen

Who wouldn’t want to sip on a fruity cocktail under the cover of this beautiful pergola?

The beachy vibes are simply pouring out of this setup… And we’re fully on board with it!

If you live in an area with picture-perfect weather all year round… There’s nothing better.

This pergola offers a pleasant amount of shade... While still allowing for a good amount of pure sunshine to seep through.

The outdoor kitchen is done in a stacked stone terra finish… Providing a lovely complement to the paver patio.

At the same time, the stainless steel appliances provide a welcome contrast (in addition to being functional)!

With a gas grill, dual side burner, and wood fired pizza oven… You’re ready and raring to go for anything the party calls for.

4. Outdoor Covered Kitchen Idea on Wood Deck

Let’s go back to a lounge space with a little more coverage. Well, a lot more, really!

This covered outdoor kitchen (NO FOLLOW) is nestled under the protection of a California room.

Interestingly enough, this space isn’t giving off California vibes! In fact, this New Hampshire outdoor kitchen is decorated with a distinctly New England theme. (As is only right!)

With tasteful florals, stained wood decking, antique lanterns, and cozy loveseats… There’s no better way to enjoy all four seasons of New England weather.

And the rustic, yet contemporary bright plank finish only adds to the homey farmhouse aesthetic.

A stunning granite countertop and backsplash ensures this homeowner’s exterior wall is protected from heat… And an overhead ceiling fan will keep the space well-ventilated, despite being more enclosed.

To us… This is the height of indoor outdoor living!

5. Outdoor Kitchen Under Covered Patio Idea

Full of clean lines and pleasantly contrasting colors… We’re a big fan of this covered outdoor kitchen idea. (And so is the Rottweiler behind the sofa!)

This larger-than-life pavilion is truly a statement piece… And even connects to some additional living space at the rear.

This back wall creates a stunning backdrop and structure for this outdoor living space.

In addition to an extra room… It also supports an outdoor TV, small shelf, and room for a couple outdoor chairs.

It’s the perfect setup for enjoying a refreshing beverage al fresco.

And wouldn’t you know it… That’s exactly what this space is set up to do.

Rather than opting for a complete patio kitchen… This homeowner opted for a single bar island, instead.

Although we might feel like we’re missing a cooking area… If it’s all about the drinks for you, this design might be right up your alley.

6. Outdoor Living with a Florida Room

Enjoy your outdoor patio bug-free with the help of a Florida room!

And while this space may seem like it’s all about the pool… It’s the petite outdoor kitchen that really pulls everything together.

With a gas outdoor grill and Big Green Egg charcoal grill… You’ve got the best of both worlds!

So whether you’re hankering for a burger or a rack of ribs after taking a dip… You can cook according to your craving.

Zooming out a bit, it’s easy to see the appeal of a Florida room.

Sunshine is allowed to pour in uninhibited… And you’re completely protected from rain, wind, and nasty pests!

What’s not to love?

7. Modern Outdoor Kitchen Design Idea with Shade Structure

In some cases, you’re not after a cover for functionality.

Perhaps for you… It’s all about aesthetics.

And if that’s true, your interest will be piqued by this backyard kitchen design.

Rather than opting for a fully functional, sprawling cover… This homeowner put a simple structure just over the grill island.

Is it an awning? Is it a mini pergola? We’re not really sure… But we are sure of one thing — it’s a nice touch.

This small roof adds another element of interest to the space… Drawing the eye upward, but keeping the focus on the outdoor kitchen.

And if you ever wanted to add some rain protection at your grill station… It’s easy to add on a plastic covering for some more practicality!

8. Outdoor Kitchen Area Under Extended Patio

Let’s look at another covered outdoor kitchen from a different perspective.

So far, we’ve been peering from the outside in… How about from the inside, out?

This first-person perspective does a great job of showing you what it would be like to have a covered patio. (With an outdoor kitchen underneath, of course!)

Imagine taking your first step out onto the patio… And you’re greeted with the sight of a cozy seating area with an outdoor kitchen.

To us… It’s a dream come true. (And this picture is proof!)

This linear outdoor kitchen boasts a big ol’ pizza oven… With plenty of extra counter space for perfecting your pizzas.

There’s also a refreshment center smack dab in the middle for hand washing, drink making, and light dishwashing.

When you’re done cooking… Just sink into one of those comfy chairs, take a load off… And enjoy your meal.

9. Custom Outdoor Kitchen Under Wood Pavilion

Alright, let’s go back to the outside looking in.

If you want your outdoor kitchen to feel like it’s a separate, freestanding, dining space… You’ll want what is known as a satellite outdoor kitchen.

Sounds fancy… But all it means is that your outdoor kitchen is further away from the house.

With the addition of a large pavilion, the effect of a separate area is magnified greatly!

It’s got a sense of grandeur about it… Your very own outdoor oasis.

Seriously, though. Who wouldn’t want to kick back and enjoy a weekend afternoon out here? It’s picture perfect.

And before we move forward… We’ve got to tip our hats to the design continuity in this space. It’s truly rustic, through and through.

Between the dark-stained wood pavilion, wrought iron chairs, and weathered wood finish on the outdoor kitchen… This setup screams rustic Americana.

But if you’re looking for something a little more streamlined… We’ve got just the thing for you.

10. Indoor Outdoor Stone Outdoor Kitchen Idea

Here’s yet another spin on an indoor outdoor living space! But this time… We see it in a contemporary grayscale theme.

We’ve got to commend this homeowner, as well. In addition to being visually appealing… They went all-out on safety!

There’s a complementary white stacked stone backsplash lining the back of the outdoor kitchen… And a generously-sized vent hood above both the kamado smoker and gas grill.

To us, it’s a beautiful sight in more ways than one.

The way this space is set up, it’s like you have your own “outdoor kitchen nook”. A little, private corner you can cook in… Retaining your zen in spite of the hosting chaos going on elsewhere in the backyard!

But even if your backyard BBQ’s are pretty mellow… We can all appreciate the idea of a set aside, dedicated cooking area.

11. Covered Outdoor Kitchen with Fire Pit & Seating Area

Why stop at just one cover? Depending on the vision you have for your outdoor living space… A second cover may be called for!

That’s exactly what we see here, folks.

Over the outdoor kitchen, you have a pergola covering the island area… And a separate pavilion for a dining and seating area off to the side.

It’s the perfect mix.

There’s a blend of sun and shade as you cook at the outdoor kitchen… Complete shade at the seating area when you need a retreat from the sun… And full sun everywhere else, when you need a little pick me up!

And when the sun gives way to the moon… There’s that matching square fire pit to chat the evening away.

There’s no question — this outdoor living space is fully optimized to keep you outside all day long.

12. Covered Outdoor Kitchen at the Tiki Bar

There’s no surer way to bring the feeling of island time to your backyard… Than with a full-fledged tiki bar!

Carefully adorned with vibrant, hanging planters and cheerful lighting… We can smell the salty, ocean air and feel the island breeze just by looking at these pictures.

Pull up a seat at the bar, take a deep breath, and just let it all sink in.

This design is a tranquil oasis… Right in the comfort of your backyard.

You’ve got plenty of shade… An undeniable island vibe… And a fully equipped outdoor kitchen for serving up all your BBQ favorites.

Is there anything missing? (We think not!)

13. Enjoy Bug-Free Grilling with this Covered Outdoor Kitchen Plan

You won’t find a single buzzing, little pest with this outdoor kitchen design!

In fact, this setup resembles an indoor kitchen more so than an outdoor kitchen! But with all that sunshine pouring in from those large windows… You get the feeling like you’re outside, without the downsides that can come along with it.

And when it comes to outdoor kitchen appliances… This BBQ island has the perfect trifecta: a pellet grill, pizza oven, and gas grill.

Smoke some ribs on the pellet grill… Fire a pizza in the oven… Char some steaks on the gas grill… And dinner’s served.

14. Refined & Stylish Covered Outdoor Kitchen

Let’s go back to a more open air concept with this outdoor kitchen idea.

Overlooking a beautiful pond and lawn… We could easily get used to the view in this outdoor living space!

But aside from the view, there’s a lot to love about this design. It’s refined, yet rustic, all at the same time.

The stacked stone chalk finish is a remarkable blend of rustic and sophisticated on its own! The stone lends itself to a more hand–hewn aesthetic… While the bright white finish gives off a refined look.

And with a classic chandelier, simple wooden table, and white paint to match… You’ll be living the high life, no matter the weather.

15. Extended Patio with Outdoor Kitchen & Entertainment Center

Last but not least… Let’s wrap up the list with an all-inclusive covered outdoor kitchen idea.

If you need every excuse possible to stay outside all day long… This design will give you an out, every time.

This extended patio is covered on most sides… Offering you near-complete protection from the elements. This also leaves room for more entertainment features, such as the fireplace and outdoor TV.

But let’s not forget about that outdoor kitchen! It’s the main event, after all.

This linear summer kitchen is neatly tucked into the back wall of the space… Blending into its surroundings, yet enhancing them at the same time.

And whether you grill up a full meal or just need to grab a drink from the fridge… Every night is movie night in this backyard space.

Hopefully, by this point, you’re starting to feel the inspiration kick in. And if you are…

Take the First Step Toward Your Outdoor Living Dreams

With all these covered outdoor kitchen ideas fluttering around in your mind… Let’s start with honing your focus on one aspect of this project — the outdoor kitchen part.

This might be a bit surprising to you.

If you want a covered outdoor kitchen… Shouldn’t you focus on the cover first?

It’s actually the other way around!

Whether it’s a pergola, gazebo, or extended patio… Your cover needs to be planned around the particulars of your outdoor kitchen design.

Additionally, you’ll need plans for utilities ready to go as well.

Point is, start with your outdoor kitchen… And planning for the cover will fall right into place.

Which leads us to your next action step.

To get the ball rolling on your outdoor kitchen project… The best place to start is with our free online design tool.

You can play around with all your wildest design ideas… And narrow it down to a great starting point.

From there, our Design Experts will work one-on-one with you to refine that design to utter perfection.

But let’s just start with creating the design… Shall we?

Have fun, and we’ll be in touch soon.

FAQ

Should an Outdoor Kitchen be Covered?

Covering your outdoor kitchen is a good idea, but it ultimately comes down to budget and personal preference. Overhead covers provide much in the way of beautifying your space, as well as providing shade while cooking. But it’s not necessary in order to enjoy your outdoor kitchen area!

What Can I Use to Cover my Outdoor Kitchen?

There are several options at your disposal for covering your outdoor kitchen. Pergolas, gazebos, and pavilions are the most common structures used.

Can You Enclose an Outdoor Kitchen?

Yes, you can enclose an outdoor kitchen. However, it is imperative that you accommodate for extra ventilation for airflow. This includes extra ventilation on the island itself… As well as overhead ventilation for each cooking appliance.

How to Use a Pizza Oven: Crave-Worthy Pizza in 7 Easy Steps – RTA Outdoor Living

Gabrielle Desmarais — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:41:27 +0000

So you’ve gotten yourself a glorious, shiny, new pizza oven… And the excitement is real!

But you’re mustering up the courage to fire up your oven for the first time.

You don’t know how to use a pizza oven yet… And you want to ensure your first pizza night goes off without a hitch.

We understand completely. And don’t worry… We’ve got your back.

Not only do we partner with two different pizza oven manufacturers for our outdoor kitchens… We’ve also got a team chock full of pizza oven owners (including yours truly).

So in this article, we’re pulling from our experiences in every direction… To bring you the most streamlined guide on how to use a pizza oven

By the time you’re through this beginner’s guide… You’ll feel plenty confident about churning out your first pizza pie.

So let’s begin.

Quick Links:

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Get Started
How to Use a Wood Fired Pizza Oven in 7 Detailed Steps
Still Not Confident? 3 Common FAQs
How to Take Your Pizza Oven Game to the Stratosphere

Let’s Set Some Ground Rules

First things first, let’s lay out some ground rules.

Before you dump wood into your oven and get it lit… There are a few other things you need to set the stage first.

Ensure You Have a Proper Oven Surface

It might seem to go without saying… But we’ve seen some pretty sketchy pizza oven setups, and it’s worth clarifying.

Make sure you have a sturdy and safe table for your pizza oven!

No wood tables (1,000°F ovens and wood don’t mix!)… And no teeter-tottering tables allowed.

The last thing you want is a scorching-hot meteorite of an oven to topple over and cause a fire!

A solid metal or concrete stand is exactly what you need. Nothing more, nothing less!

Prep Your Prep Area

So much prep! But it’s so key, dear reader.

When your oven is roaring-hot, it takes only 60 – 90 seconds for your pizza to bake… And you’ve got to be ready for anything. (Quick reflexes are a must!)

So to ensure your reaction time is as quick as a mouse trap snapping shut… You’ve got to have everything you need immediately available to you.

And we mean this in more ways than one.

Firstly, put a prep table right next to your pizza oven. While you could prep your pizzas inside, and haul them out each time… It’s really not worth it. (Ask us how we know!)

You’re making a mess in your house… You’re rushing to get the next pizza ready… Your guests are taking their sweet time to put toppings on… It’s a whole ordeal.

Circumvent all that frantic energy with a prep table right next to your oven.

You won’t have to hunt people down, run around like a chicken with its head cut off… Or worry about burning that precious, precious pizza.

And on that note… Also get that mise en place going (a fancy French term for having all your ingredients set up).

Have your dough balls covered on a sheet pan… Big bowls for cheese and toppings… And already-opened jars of sauce (with a spoon!).

As we said, be ready for everything. And that also includes…

Use the Right Kind of Wood

Wood is wood… Right?

Well, not quite.

Your pizza oven isn’t picky about the kind of wood it eats… But it does have some strong preferences.

In short, stay away from putting softwoods in your oven (pine, spruce, etc.). These are resinous woods that get your oven sticky… And impart some unwelcome, bitter, camphorous flavors to your pizza. Yuck!

Otherwise, as long as it’s hardwood… You’re good to go.

Oak, hickory, cherry… Doesn’t matter.

Hoping to get a specific wood smoke flavor in your pizza?

Well, unfortunately, that’s a bit of a myth. Your pizza cooks so hot and so fast… There’s not enough time for your pizza to get infused with smoke flavor.

Point is, no need to spring for the scarce and pricey stuff if you were hoping for pecan-infused pizza.

Get hardwood… Chop it up into small pieces… Keep plenty of it nearby… And that’s that.

Have the Tools of the Trade Available

Of course, you’ll also need to have plenty of pizza cooking tools on hand. Namely:

An Infrared Thermometer
Pizza Peel
Turning Peel

An infrared thermometer is essential to ensure your oven is heated to the right temperature. But it’s not only important when you first start baking!

Every pizza will cool down your oven a little bit… So keep that thermometer handy to keep track of temperatures between bakes, as well. (No one likes a soggy pizza!)

As for the pizza peel and turning peel… They often get confused, but each tool serves an important purpose.

Your pizza peel is wide and designed for you to be able to pick up your prepared pizza… And launch it into the oven.

The turning peel is smaller… And designed for quick turns of the pizza during baking for an even finish.

Both are simple, yet essential for a perfect pizza pie.

Expect Mishaps... And Course Correct!

Now, you might start thinking to yourself… “Man, this is all getting a little too fussy for my taste.”

We hear you. But once you get your ideal setup, your favorite products, and other ducks in a row… Most of this will become automatic over time.

And most importantly, if this is your first pizza making experience… Have a backup plan in place.

Pizza making may look easy. But there’s a lot of moving parts in play… And a lot that can go wrong.

Point is, it’s likely that something will go wrong during your first bake. So be prepared for this reality… And be ready to order takeout just in case!

There’s few things more frustrating than putting all your eggs into one basket… Only to find you don’t end up with anything edible at the end.

Moral of the story?

Don’t expect perfection… Have grace with yourself… And try again (it will get easier!).

And now that our “ground rules” are setting into a firm foundation… Let’s get into actually using your wood fired pizza oven.

Need a Home for Your Wood Fired Pizza Oven?

A custom outdoor kitchen will make your wood fired oven feel right at home.

DESIGN NOW

How to Use a Pizza Oven Like a Professional

You may not be a pizzeria-level chef right off the bat… But we can get you pretty darn close by following these tips and tricks.

1. Get Your Pizza Oven Roaring

First things first. Get your outdoor pizza oven ready and raring to go.

Lighting your pizza oven can be a little tricky… But with some finesse and know-how, it’s not that tough.

Ultimately, there’s a million ways to start a fire… And just about all of them will work for this purpose, as long as it’s chemical-free.

For us, we like to shave some tiny pieces off of a hunk of wood… Get them lit up… And slowly add larger and larger pieces, until a good fire is rolling.

It takes some time, but it’s reliable.

And once your oven is nice and hot… Get the stone preheating to around 600°F – 650°F or so.

This is generally recognized as a well desired temperature for pizza baking… And in our experience, that’s been the case for us.

Next…

2. Set the Stage

Time for that mise en place, folks!

Double check to ensure that you have everything you need readily accessible.

Like we mentioned earlier… Get your pasta sauce out, dusting flour, dough balls, bowls of cheese… You get the idea.

Don’t forget to keep your tools and extra wood handy, too!

3. Prep Your Pizza Dough

Your pizza stone is plenty hot… And your first satisfying bite of homemade pizza is mere moments away.

So get your dough out… Roll it out… Toss it up in the air if you’re feeling brave… And form a nice, meaty crust on the outside edge.

Pro Tip: Make sure you put plenty of flour on your countertop! You want your pizza to slide around and move freely.

Sticking and tearing dough is one of the top pizza-related frustrations. So when in doubt, sprinkle more flour.

For a true Neapolitan pizza… Load it up with pizza sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil.

Or if you’ve got a flair for the adventurous… Toss on some BBQ rib shreds, pork belly burnt ends, or even brisket!

That’s the glorious thing about pizza. You can make your own pizza… However you want it.

Tomato and mozzarella… Arugula, goat cheese, and prosciutto… Ham and pineapple… There are no rules.

No matter your preference, you’re well on your way to the best pizza of your life.

4. Check the Temperature

After you’ve prepped your dough… It’s time to see if your oven has successfully preheated.

If it’s a lower temperature than 600°F… It’s easy enough to wait a while.

But what if you’ve overshot it? What if your oven floor is way too hot?

It comes down to patience here, as well.

Thankfully, teeny little wood burning oven fires wane quickly… So it won’t take long for that temperature to start to plummet.

Trust us, your patience will be rewarded.

And when that pizza oven is at the correct temperature… Push the wood off to the side, and make room for your pizza to bake. (Or the back, depending on how your outdoor oven is designed.)

But once that home pizza oven of yours is good and ready… It’s off to the fun part.

5. Launch Your Pie

Get ready for lift off!

Shimmy that stunning pizza of yours onto a (well-floured!) pizza peel.

Carefully carry it over to the opening of your pizza oven… And slide it in.

There’s no big secret here. It just takes time and practice to get a feel for it.

But if you take your time and keep it gentle… You’ll probably do alright.

And once the bottom begins to cook after a few seconds… You can use a pizza turner to nudge it into a more central location of your oven.

Speaking of turning…

6. Turn, Baby, Turn

Most wood fired ovens are designed with convection in mind… But there’s no getting around the fact that your heat source is located on one side of the oven.

So to keep that searing high heat from scorching your dough… That’s where the beauty of the pizza turner comes in.

Watch your dough like a hawk… And use the pizza turner to gently nudge your pie in a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion.

You’re essentially acting as a manual rotisserie, ensuring the crust is evenly cooked all-around.

After a minute or two of cooking time… Your crust should be crispy, beautifully blistered, and ready to escape from the oven.

7. Peel it Off, & do it Again

Take that trusty pizza peel of yours and pull that piping hot pizza out of the oven!

Ideally, the countertop is right there so you can drop off the pie in one swift motion… There’s no reason to risk dropping your stunning, fresh pizza!

Once it’s safely sitting on the countertop, slice that baby up and enjoy… Or if you’re hosting a party, serve it up and do it all over again!

They say repetition is the key to mastery… And we can’t think of anything better to practice. (Who could say no to more pizza?)

Well, there you have it. The steps for how to use a wood burning pizza oven.

Even after taking some time to study… You may have some lingering questions that haven’t been answered.

Make Pizza Nights a Breeze

Design an outdoor kitchen that’ll make pizza parties as effortless as lifting a feather.

Start Now

Still Have Questions?

Let’s tackle them all… One by one.

How do You Cook Pizza Evenly in a Pizza Oven?

It’s all in the turning. Every 10-20 seconds, give that pizza of yours a nice eighth or quarter turn with your pizza turner.

Keep a close eye on it, watching for browning or burning. Also slightly lift up the pizza with your peel to see how nicely the bottom is browning.

Once you’re satisfied with the browning and char… Pull it out of your oven.

How Long do Pizzas take to Cook in a Pizza Oven?

If your ambient oven temperature reaches that classic 900°F… It’ll only take a minute or two for your pizza to cook.

But if your pizza oven is at a lower temperature, it can take 4-6 minutes for a complete bake on your pie.

Watch it constantly, and you’ll be just fine.

How do I Make Crispy Thin Crust Pizza in a Wood Fire Oven?

Ah, the coveted crispy crust. In order to get the texture just right, there are three things you need.

An uber hot oven (900°F) to rapidly form and crisp your crust
A high-hydration pizza dough recipe to compensate for the searing-hot heat
Thinly-rolled dough to avoid the formation of a fluffy and airy crust

These are the general rules… But it will take some tinkering over time to get it exactly the way you want it!

And now that you’ve mastered how to use a pizza oven… What’s the next level to tackle?

Take Your Pizza Oven Game to Another Level

Whether you’re working with an Ooni oven, Gozney, brick pizza oven, or even another brand of portable pizza oven… There’s one thing that takes your pizza making experience to a whole ‘nother level.

Rather than having to fret and fuss about the logistics of pizza oven tables and prep tables… Always be properly set up for your next pizza party with the help of an outdoor kitchen.

It’s the easiest (and most reliable) way to ensure you’ll get full value out of your pizza oven.

Because let’s be honest with ourselves…

How many times have you (or will you) want to make a fresh pizza… Only to decide against it because getting the oven set up is too much of an inconvenience?

There’s no shaming here, we’ve been there too.

But with an outdoor kitchen… You can cut straight to the chase, and focus on the joys of pizza baking.

Your pizza oven has a permanent and aesthetically pleasing resting place… You’ll have counter space for prepping and firing pizzas… And possibly even a bar top for serving.

And that’s just the pizza oven.

With an outdoor kitchen… You unlock the potential for a whole host of other stainless steel cooking appliances. (Gas or propane grill, charcoal grill, pellet grill, or power burner, anyone?)

The options are only limited by your imagination.

And speaking of imagination… Who could help you dream up an unbelievable pizza oven setup like this?

That’s where we come in. Our custom DIY outdoor kitchen system is effortless from start to finish… And an absolute joy to use when you have it in your backyard.

Our islands are made from high performance concrete… Which is plenty safe and sturdy for your oven to sit on!

Our pizza oven stands even come with wood storage! (No need to fumble for a log mid-bake.)

And if you don’t already have a favorite pizza oven… We partner with both Alfa and Coyote for their gas fired and wood fired ovens.

So if you’d like to have the convenience of gas sometimes… A hybrid or gas oven might be the ticket.

But first… Start playing around with your outdoor kitchen design!

Our free online 3D design tool is the perfect place to start.

And from there… We’ll be in touch.

Outdoor Kitchen Photos: 24 Gorgeous Examples – RTA Outdoor Living

James King — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 16:28:37 +0000

So, you know you want a new outdoor kitchen, but you’re not sure where to begin.

First, you should ask yourself: “Why do I want to build an outdoor kitchen?”

Are you interested in cooking outdoors for yourself and your family?

Do you want to entertain large groups of friends with an al fresco dining experience?

Or do you simply want to impress the neighborhood?

Our team at RTA Outdoor Living has helped thousands of customers dream up and build their perfect outdoor kitchen ideas. From the smallest DIY grill islands… to extravagant banquet-style kitchens.

Before you get ready to start your own project, it might help to peruse some of our favorite completed projects from happy customers.

Remember, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery… So let’s get to it.

Quick Links:

24 Jaw-Dropping Outdoor Kitchen Photos
How to Go from Photos… to Real Life

24 Jaw-Dropping Outdoor Kitchen Photos

1. Simple Outdoor Kitchen Design

Coming out of the gate, we have a simple, yet fully functional grill island setup. It is perfect for beginners to backyard design and outdoor cooking.

No bells and whistles, just a short island with a grill and storage space underneath. Of course, you need the outdoor kitchen countertops off to the side for food prep and tool storage while cooking.

An added refrigerator means you can keep marinating meat or other ingredients ready to go… And maybe a cold beverage (or two!) to pop when it’s time to fire up the grill.

You’ll earn bonus efficiency points for building the counter space right next to the stairs… So if you have long arms you can simply reach over.

2. The Functional Outdoor Kitchen

Adding a bit more to the basic linear set up, this island features a grill with room for counter space on either side.

It may surprise you how much more functional an island grill can feel with the simple addition of more surface area.

The handy left-to-right layout means you can keep prepped ingredients and raw meat to the left of the grill before firing them. Then, you can progress over to a separate surface for cooked items. (Remember to let them cool!)

Add in the small outdoor refrigerator, island storage, and pull-out trash bin and you’ve got an efficient outdoor kitchen.

3. The Off-Set Deck Dining Area

Getting a little more complex, this kitchen example features two islands, off-set on the same deck of this home.

In variation from a typical style, the design doesn’t include a traditional grill but rather favors a flat top and dual side gas burner on the main island. The secondary island features a sink, storage and a pull-out trash can.

The long, empty countertops on the secondary island would make this setup perfect for catering or setting up a buffet.

4. Outdoor Entertaining Oasis with TV & Bar

This outdoor kitchen is tucked perfectly into the covered patio of this house. It efficiently sits against the side wall so it doesn’t interfere with the sitting area.

Likewise, a basic patio chair and table can help keep guests out of the way while you are working on the grill. A wall-mounted television adds some extra entertainment to the mix.

Placing an outdoor kitchen sink right next to the grill means you can keep your hands clean while grilling. The minifridge add-on will help with keeping cold ingredients or drinks at arm’s length.

This setup would be perfect for entertaining a small group outside or grilling out while watching the television.

5. Gas and Charcoal Outdoor Kitchen Design

Next we have an eye-catching design of a linear island featuring a gas grill as well as a charcoal grill, storage drawers, and a stacked stone finish.

If you just can’t choose between both cooking methods… this is the setup for you. You can either use gas to quickly cook and maintain stable heat… or charcoal to reach higher temperatures and impart smoky flavor.

It’s a deceptively simple, (but actually quite flexible!) setup.

6. Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Photo at The Farm House

This rustic outdoor kitchen is giving an early-morning farm house vibe. Somewhere in the countryside, where your closest neighbor is miles down the road.

The linear setup is quite traditional, placing the grill in the middle with storage and some extra counter space.

This kitchen would be perfect for slowly grilling out sausages or skewers for lunch. Meanwhile, you can scramble up some fresh eggs for breakfast using the dual side gas burner on the side. (Now that’s multitasking!)

The pull-out double drawers, storage, and pull-out trash bin offer even more versatility to this simple set up.

7. Outdoor Kitchen by the Pool

This linear design is perfect for a poolside outdoor living space, ideal for grilling burgers and hotdogs for a party or weekend hang out.

This island offers some storage but no refrigeration or trash bin, which implies the indoor kitchen is likely close by for easy access.

That’s good, because you can take advantage of those savings to get another appliance, like an outdoor pizza oven or smoker.

The addition of a Coyote asado smoker adds some versatility to the island. With that, you can always smoke something slowly throughout the day.

8. The L-Bar Dining Area

This functional L-shaped island with outdoor kitchen bar seating is perfect for entertainment.

The small refrigerator and storage drawers will make a smooth cooking experience. That way, you can keep up a conversation while you’re working.

Bonus points for the functionality of the bar providing a small space for additional ingredients, tools, or cooked food items.

The modern stone ash finish blends well into the stone patio, creating an elegant dining area to entertain a small group or even a date seated at your bar.

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9. Poolside Pergola Outdoor Kitchen

Now we are getting into some fancier designs with a few extra perks… starting with this multi-appliance setup under a poolside pergola.

The L-shaped island provides a solid base for plenty of outdoor kitchen appliances and accessories. The Coyote grill and built-in single side burner are the main players here.

Plenty of storage, a small refrigerator, and a sink round out this outdoor kitchen.

This grilling and refreshment area is perfect for outdoor entertaining, with plenty of room for bar seating alongside the island.

10. Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photo with a Mounted TV

This outdoor cooking space begins with a grill island, complete with a built-in flat top and plenty of storage. The L-shaped bar provides some extra counter space, as well as a dining area for your guests.

With the bar stools set up to face the wall-mounted television, it’s clear that this outdoor kitchen is a space for entertaining. You and your friends could sit out here all night watching movies or sports with some grilled snacks.

11. The Counter Culture Patio Kitchen

Extra counter space can be a luxurious feature for an outdoor kitchen, in some cases even more so than kitchen appliances.

If all you have in mind is a built-in grill and a space to entertain folks, it might be worth the investment to build out some additional islands.

Extra islands means more space for outdoor weatherproof storage. It also means more accessories, including refrigerators, spice racks and outdoor kitchen cabinets.

Even if you don’t fill out the counter space with smokers or pizza ovens… you can still use the surfaces for other fixtures or decorations.

You could imagine celebrating a family birthday or holiday in this outdoor kitchen. There’s plenty of room for your guests to sit around the grill to chat with the cook (or even help with the cooking!)

12. Outdoor Pizza Oven Patio Kitchen

It’s just starting to snow in this outdoor kitchen photo, which depicts a cozy outdoor dining space complete with a wood fired pizza oven.

The setup is pure efficient functionality. You waste no square footage integrating an outdoor kitchen into an established patio backyard space.

The Alfa pizza oven is a perfect addition to the grill island. It provides a platform for easy cooking and entertainment for guests at the table or couch seating area.
This would be another great space for a birthday party or even a gaming setup. It utilizes the outdoor furniture as a central gathering space to connect the cook with the party.

13. Doggy Dining Area

A full outdoor kitchen integrates perfectly into the backyard of this home. This homeowner clearly already spent a lot of time outside, tending to their plants and hanging out with their dog.

A new grilling space is a great way to enhance that experience and entice guests to join you.

This L-shaped island includes a Coyote grill, asado sleeve, small refrigerator, and an outdoor kitchen sink.

Unfortunately, we can’t provide a German Shepherd with our outdoor kitchens. But if you do have your own furry friend at home, you can be sure they’ll enjoy the smell of grilling meat as much as you do. SIT, no begging!

14. Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photo with a Smoker

This kitchen’s close proximity to the house means you can pop in and out of the house while cooking outdoors. Otherwise, you could stick around outside to chat with guests.

The Coyote pellet grill is bookended by an asado smoker and an L-shaped bar island. There, you can use the counter for extra surface space or guests can pull up a stool around the other side.

A small refrigerator, pull-out trash can, and drawer storage round out the utility of this outdoor kitchen design.

Imagine you have some meat slow-cooking in the smoker, while guests mingle at the bar, in the yard, or even inside the house.

This grilling and smoking space provides a lot of versatility for entertainment.

15. New York Contemporary Outdoor Kitchen Photo

This rooftop patio kitchen overlooks the skyline of New York City. It showcases the flexibility and ease of construction that a ready-to-assemble grill island can provide.

The Coyote grill is the centerpiece of the island. It is coupled with a double side burner, and accessories including storage, drawers, a small refrigerator, and a pull-out trash can.

The L-shaped bar provides some extra kitchen countertops or a place for guests to sit.

You could spend a full evening outside in this modern outdoor kitchen, cooking on the grill and grabbing drinks from the fridge. The bar even provides a place to set your drink while you look out over the railing, watching the city from up above.

16. Smoker Bar Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

Outside this home, a clean linear kitchen island provides a space to grill out for an evening or spend a weekend entertaining guests.

This island centers on a Coyote grill with storage and a pull out trash can.

An asado smoker adds more utility to this outdoor kitchen. It provides the extra capability to slow cook meats or other items while resting indoors.

With no outdoor bar seating, it’s hard to imagine your guests crowding around the cooking space… but that actually can be practical (even ideal!) for a grill cook who prefers to utilize their outdoor kitchen alone or away from the distractions of a party.

17. Corner Cooking Kitchen Island

This L-shaped island is full of style… it completes the space with a dining table and multiple seating areas.

You can tell this kitchen gets some use from a real outdoor cooking enthusiast by the practicality of the design as well as the aesthetic appeal…

And with so many seats available, your whole family or friend group can enjoy a cookout together.

A Coyote grill and flat top bookend a prized Alfa pizza oven, supported by plenty of storage, a small refrigerator and a pull-out trash can.

18. Pergola Banquet Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photos

Looking across the central outdoor fireplace feature of a swanky patio, we can see an elaborate cooking area under a well-lit pergola.

The actual U-shaped kitchen is compact and efficient. It provides enough space and utility for one or two cooks to work together to provide for a large group.

This outdoor kitchen design is clearly meant to entertain medium to large-sized groups. No problem for the Coyote grill, large flat top, and Alfa wood fired pizza oven.

You could imagine a celebration here… maybe a birthday party, or even a small wedding in this wide-open neighborhood space. It’s obvious that a kitchen like this is meant for a homeowner who aims to entertain and to impress.

19. U-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

This U-Shaped outdoor kitchen fills out the backyard of this California home… It comes complete with a finished outdoor patio floor amongst the surrounding greenery.

The Coyote grill forms the main cooking arm of this modern outdoor kitchen. It is supported by plenty of cabinetry, a small refrigerator, pull-out trash can, and a drop-in cooler.

The real driver of this kitchen is the wide and ample kitchen countertops. Those can be used for plating, additional utility, or an outdoor bar space for your guests.

20. The Tropical Galley Outdoor Kitchen Design

Galley-style kitchens combine a linear outdoor grill island with the benefits of bar seating and extra counter space.

The compact main island forgoes the gas grill in favor of a flat top cooking surface. At the same time, a kitchen sink and outdoor refrigerator cabinet are perfect for making drinks or snacks.

Pull-up bar seating, a mounted television, and an island-style patio cover complete this little slice of paradise in Key Largo, Florida… Perfect for a grill-out party or a weekend sports event.

If you are looking to feel like you are on summer vacation in your own backyard, this outdoor kitchen photo might just be the inspiration you need.

21. Gazebo Outdoor Kitchen

Covered gazebos are the perfect place for an outdoor kitchen. They provide a functional cooking area to a natural entertainment space.

This bar island is tucked into the corner of the gazebo. This creates a distinct bar center that’s perfect for bringing your bartending dreams to life!

22. Stone Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

This galley backyard kitchen fits right into the stone patio of this home.

With a gas grill, refrigerator, and pull out trash can on the grill island… And storage with an open countertop on the other end… You’re more than set up to cook for a stunning waterfront soiree.

We love the tasteful use of decoration on both islands, as well.

The only thing that’s missing?

A fire pit to seal the deal on a beautiful evening al fresco!

23. The Red-on-Red Outdoor Kitchen

Setting up your outdoor kitchen front-and-center of your home is a great way to make your neighbors jealous.

Just imagine parking this absolute social statement right next to the cul-de-sac. (Not to mention the neighborhood mailboxes!)

A large Coyote grill and flat top burner form the centerpiece of the grill island. A matching red asado smoker and Alfa home pizza oven sit proudly on the flanks.

A small outdoor refrigerator, pull-out trash bin, and ample storage complete the package.

You really want your outdoor kitchen design ideas to be the talk of your neighborhood… so why not consider dropping it right in the front of your house for all to see and envy?

24. Poolside Patio Kitchen

This homeowner pulled out all the stops to turn their covered outdoor pool and kitchen area into a backyard BBQ dream.

A Coyote grill and power burner drives the main island. A matching pizza oven commands the room, mounted on the corner island.

You couldn’t ask for more counter surfaces or storage space to accommodate this large outdoor living room and kitchen.

Who’s ready to grill?

Time To Design Your Own Outdoor Kitchen

So, you’ve come this far. You’ve seen a variety of outdoor kitchen layouts ranging from the humble grill island to extravagant lifestyle arenas.

It can be tough to reach the grandeur of some outdoor kitchens… But you might find some inspiration from these beautiful outdoor kitchen photos.

All that remains is to figure out the kind of kitchen you are looking for… We hope you’ve been taking notes!

Surely, after admiring all the ways these homeowners designed their outdoor kitchens, you’ve got some ideas of your own now.

We can be flexible to almost any idea you throw at us… That’s because our outdoor kitchens are made from easy-to-assemble panels, cut and shaped to fit your custom design.

We can accommodate designs for any size of island, decked out with appliances and accessories from Coyote. Gas, charcoal, and pellet grills, even smokers and pizza ovens. You name it, because you’re in the driver’s seat now.

Don’t worry, it’s easy enough to start using our free outdoor kitchen design software to design your outdoor kitchen remodel in just 5 minutes.

And if you have a unique idea that our design tool can’t accommodate… our Design Team will work with you one-on-one to try to make it happen. (Or try to figure out something even better!)

It’s simple, and it’s fun! Just the way life should be

Want to Bring Your Idea to Life?

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Outdoor Kitchen Grill: In-Depth Review of 4 Brands, & Your Best Choice

James King — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:49:51 +0000

When you imagine an outdoor kitchen… There’s a 99% chance that the island you picture has a built-in grill head.

It makes total sense. Outdoor kitchens and built-in grills go together like ribs and BBQ sauce… And some would say that you can’t have one without the other.

So when planning your own outdoor kitchen space… One of the first things that comes to mind is probably: “Which outdoor kitchen grill should I choose?”

It’s the most important part of your outdoor kitchen island, after all… And we’re here to give you the answers you’re seeking.

As an outdoor kitchen company ourselves… We’ve been studying the best built-in grills for years.

So today, we’re going to share our refined knowledge on the topic with you.

But first, we need to fully grasp what an outdoor kitchen grill is…And all the different ways to go about getting an outdoor kitchen and grill setup in 2024.

Let’s dig in.

Quick Links:

What is an Outdoor Kitchen Grill?
The Best Outdoor Kitchen and Grill Kits for 2024
Who Should You Choose? We Weigh in
Getting Started with a Premium Outdoor Kitchen Brand

What is an Outdoor Kitchen Grill?

An outdoor kitchen grill goes by many names.

Drop-in grill, built-in grill, grill insert, grill head… The list goes on.

All of these terms refer to the same thing: A grill that’s specially designed to be built into the structure of an outdoor kitchen. (That you cook great BBQ with, of course!)

Easy enough to understand!

When getting an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, there are two common paths you can take.

You can choose a fully premade outdoor kitchen kit, complete with a built-in grill head.
Or…
You can design and build an outdoor kitchen island from scratch… And select a built-in grill to pair with your custom outdoor cooking station.

If simple and convenient are more your speed… The former is probably the solution for you. All you have to do is buy a pre-designed outdoor kitchen… Without having to worry about all the small design details and spend time agonizing about which built-in grill brand is just right.

But if you’re all for custom bells and whistles in your outdoor cooking station… You probably already have a specific vision for your ideal built in grill and outdoor kitchen design. Choosing a built-in grill head to place in your scratch-built grill island surround is the better path to take.

In either case… You’ll need a good baseline to kick off from.

So with that, let’s review some of the best outdoor kitchen grill and grill island brands on the market today.

Interested in a custom outdoor kitchen grill?

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The Best Outdoor Kitchen Grill Brands of 2024

We don’t know about you… But when we shop, we like to be able to get everything in one place.

So for the purposes of researching an outdoor kitchen grill… We’re going to be presenting brands that offer both pre-manufactured island structures and come with the grill.

Let’s take a look at some products that may be worth your while.

Bull BBQ Islands & Grills

Bull is well known in the grilling industry for their line of built-in and freestanding grill heads… But not everyone knows that they also manufacture prefabricated outdoor kitchens.

For the unfamiliar… Prefab outdoor kitchens are fully constructed ahead of time, and delivered to your home in this manner. (Sometimes, a crane is required to drop them into your backyard.)

Currently, they have several options at your disposal… But we’ll only be doing a brief overview here.

That said, layout, appliance, and finish selections are pretty similar across the board.

Read on for a quick summary on these products.

Regular Program Outdoor Kitchen Components

Although not the most exciting name in the world… It’s perfectly descriptive of Bull’s bread and butter prefab islands.

These outdoor kitchens are made from a combo of steel frames, cement board, and your finish of choice (quartzite or stucco).

As for countertops, you’re able to select from several shades of porcelain tile.

Layouts are arranged in either linear or L-shaped formations of different sizes. You can get an L-shape if you want a little bar top… Or stick with a linear island for a straight-up BBQ island.

We’ll admit, appliance selection is pretty limited.

Each island can accommodate a different size built-in gas grill from Bull… But there are currently no options for a charcoal grill.

Some islands will include a small side burner as well… But that’s where your cooking appliance options begin and end.

Aside from this, refrigerators, storage, and pull out trash bins are the other features worth looking into.

Faux Rock Outdoor Kitchens

Bull’s Faux Rock outdoor cooking islands are virtually identical to the Regular Program selection… The only real difference here is the finish and layout options.

Rather than a quartzite stone finish… This category offers two colors of a Genstone finish. This faux stone is more lifelike, and may be preferable if you appreciate a rustic aesthetic.

Just like the Regular Program, porcelain tiles come standard with these products.

Currently, only two layouts are on offer. Both are linear, including a gas grill, side burner, refrigerator, and access doors for accessories.

Solid Surface Outdoor Kitchens

Once again, this category is a spin-off of Bull’s Regular Program.

The same steel frames, cement board, and stucco finish is used… The only difference here being the countertop.

Instead of regular porcelain tile… You’re still getting porcelain tile, but in a solid piece. Which means no grout lines or joints. (This is an improvement!)

Otherwise, only two linear layout options are available. Both will include a gas grill, refrigerator, and storage… The primary difference between them is size.

Durabull Outdoor Kitchens

Bull’s new Durabull prefab islands marks a significant departure from their other outdoor kitchen grills, primarily in construction.

In this line, Bull abandons the steel frame construction and opts for HDPE cabinets instead. This is a far more durable material overall, and won’t be subject to issues like rust and corrosion.

However… HDPE is a combustible material and you must use an insulated grill jacket for safety. We were unable to determine if Bull includes one, so reach out to them to confirm.

Aside from this, the Durabull line includes upgraded granite countertops as well. This is great to see, as granite is a stellar material for outdoor durability.

As per usual, layout options are pretty basic. There are four options in total: two linear designs, and two L-shaped designs.

These islands will include a gas grill and refrigerator… With wall-to-wall cabinets throughout the rest.

Bull Product Highlights

Price: $6,000.00 – $23,000.00

Island Materials: Steel frame and cement board or HDPE

Warranty: 1 year for islands, Appliances vary

Overall Thoughts: Bull’s Regular Program, Faux Rock, and Solid Surface kitchens are budget-friendly, but leave much to be desired in terms of quality. Framed islands are susceptible to rust, corrosion, and finish deterioration. Bull’s Durabull model is a strong step in the right direction, but the extremely short warranty stops us short from a glowing recommendation on that building option.

Cal Flame Outdoor Kitchen Islands & Grills

Cal Flame has been building outdoor kitchens since the late 90’s… And has made quite a name for themselves in this time.

That said, for the most part… Cal Flame’s prefab islands are similar to Bull in many ways.

Materials are similar… Appliance options are similar… And they also have three categories to select from.

Let’s take a closer look at these products.

Patio Series

Cal Flame’s Patio Series is designed for small spaces. Each outdoor kitchen grill layout has a modest size… So if you don’t have much entertaining area to work with, this may appeal to you.

Each island is constructed with welded, 16-gauge galvanized steel, covered with Hardibacker ceramic tile backboard… And finished with ameristone stucco or faux wood. (We can’t confirm what this wood finish is made from.)

While it’s good to see welded frames… This construction method still proves to be problematic in harsh climates, where rust and corrosion are an ever-present risk.

As for countertops, natural stone tile or porcelain stone tile are your options.

That said, what about the grill? What fuel type can you get?

Just gas.

That’s great if that’s what you’re looking for! But charcoal fans might be feeling a little left out in the cold here.

But that’s pretty much all there is to the Patio Series islands. You have three layout options (linear or small L-shape), a gas grill, and an access door underneath.

Escape Series

Overall, Cal Flame’s Escape Series is pretty much identical… The only difference being layouts, finishes, and size.

Construction type and materials are the same.. Apart from the fact that you can select a cultured stone finish in some cases. (Some layouts also can be upgraded to a granite countertop.)

The Escape Series offers 8 linear and L-shape layouts in different configurations.

All of them will include a 304 stainless steel gas grill, refrigerator, and access doors.

You have a little more counter space for food prep… And one layout offers a mini bar top for serving and entertaining.

Not much to report here!

Premium Series

The Premium Series offers the “best and brightest” from Cal Flame’s BBQ island designs.

You get the same materials, countertops, and finish options as before… Just more of it.

The Premium Series places three layouts at your disposal.

One is a pseudo U-shape, with a mini bar top on either side of the island. Another is a classic L-shape… And the third is an L-shape type layout, with a corner forming the bend.

Once again, you’ll encounter Cal Flame’s 304 stainless steel natural gas grills across the board. Additionally, each island will have an outdoor refrigerator, access doors, and propane tank storage.

Beyond this, each layout will have a slightly different appliance offering.

La Jolla has a double side burner
Carmel has an outdoor faucet and single side burner
Laguna Q has a sink with refreshment center for serving up cocktails

There’s certainly a bit more variety with Cal Flame’s premium series… But what if you really want to go all out with your outdoor kitchen space?

Product Highlights

Price: $4,000 – $12,000+

Island Materials: Galvanized steel frame with Hardibacker cement board

Warranty: Lifetime Structural Warranty on Island, Appliances Vary

Overall Thoughts: While we appreciate the inclusion of durable 304 stainless steel accessories and a budget-friendly price… Cal Flame’s less than stellar construction quality and design limitation leaves more to be desired. Could be a decent short-term solution in more dry or arid climates, where moisture is less of a concern. That said, the lifetime structural warranty is encouraging.

Coyote x RTA

Yes, it’s true. We’re throwing our hat in the ring and bragging about ourselves a little bit.

RTA (hey, that’s us!) has partnered with Coyote Outdoor Living to create a one-stop outdoor kitchen solution you’ve never seen anywhere else.

Our outdoor kitchens are ready to assemble, which is slightly different from a prefab island.

Rather than getting a fully constructed island delivered to your home… Our islands require light assembly that takes just a couple hours to put together. (We transform your backyard like it’s magic!)

This allows us to be much more nimble when it comes to customization and personalization. We do have plenty of pre-designed islands you can choose from… But if you want a BBQ island that’s truly unique to you, we can do that too.

Every RTA outdoor kitchen is easily constructed with high performance concrete. This means our islands are impervious to rust, corrosion, and damage from freeze thaw cycles. (Northerners, rejoice!)

Countertop options will be either that very same high performance concrete… Or nearly-indestructible solid granite tops.

The included Coyote appliances are 304 stainless steel construction across the board, and depending on what route you go down… You’ll have access to their entire suite of outdoor appliances. (Grills, drawers, sinks, and more!)

Without further ado…

RTA Quick Ship Kitchens

If you appreciate the simplicity of having an outdoor kitchen grill already designed for you… The Quick Ship line from RTA is what you’ll prefer.

This is our selection of all the most popular layouts we’ve designed over the years.

In total, there are 18 unique layouts on offer with 8 different finishes and color options available. (Stacked stone, weathered wood, reclaimed brick, and modern concrete are the textures to choose from.)

Throughout the line, every island will include a natural gas or propane grill with an access door underneath. (Don’t worry charcoal-lovers… We can do custom!)

Beyond this, appliance selection comes down to the specific layout you choose. The Quick Ship category offers pull out trash bins, refrigerators, outdoor sinks, power burners, electric grills, kamado grills, side burners, and even pellet grills.

We even offer a separate stand for a kamado grill or pizza oven, if you wish.

Point is, even in our pre-designed series… We’ve got something to fit your family and lifestyle. But we don’t stop there.

RTA Custom Outdoor Kitchen Grills

If our pre-designed outdoor kitchen components simply don’t speak to you… Custom is where your outdoor kitchen space can really shine.

Do you want an outdoor griddle for breakfast al fresco? What about a gas grill with a high BTU sear burner or rotisserie burner? What about a dual fuel hybrid version that is fully equipped for gas and charcoal?

All of the above appliance options are unlocked with the custom process.

But you also unlock a range of nearly-unlimited amount of outdoor kitchen designs.

Linear, L-shape, U-shape, galley, BBQ islands, bar islands, a mix of both… Whatever it is, our custom process makes it possible.

You’ll start with either crafting a layout in our design tool, or hopping straight to a call with one of our Design Experts.

Either way… We’ll work one-on-one with you to ensure your outdoor cooking space is truly a dream come true.

Product Highlights

Price: $5,700 – $18,000+

Island Materials: High performance concrete

Warranty: Limited Lifetime on Structure & Appliances

Overall Thoughts: What can we say? We’re not the cheapest option. But… With RTA, you get premium grills, virtually-indestructible concrete construction, a limited lifetime warranty across the board, options for complete personalization… It’s easily worth your while.

Ready to take the leap?

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Mont Alpi Outdoor Kitchen Grill Islands

Mont Alpi released their modular grill island line around 7 years ago, and they’ve been growing in popularity ever since.

Traditionally, modular islands are separate units you put together to create the layout you want.

Although Mont Alpi does offer modular units that you can arrange yourself… They primarily advertise their pre-designed island layouts. So for our purposes, these are the products we’ll focus on.

Original Series

As the name suggests, this is Mont Alpi’s tried and true original line.

Every outdoor cooking island will include their 6-burner 304 stainless steel gas grill with a bottle opener, backlit knobs, and optional rotisserie kit.

Their outdoor kitchen cabinets feature complete 304 stainless construction as well… And the countertops are made from granite composite. (A blend of crushed quartz, stone dust, and acrylic resin.)

So as far as the finish goes, it’s just plain steel. All the countertops will be white as well.

Aside from the liquid propane or gas grill… Each Original Series island will include an infrared side burner and drawer storage.

Additionally, some layouts will include a sink, glass door refrigerator and/or kegerator.

The Original Series has 9 configurations to choose from, being a mixture of linear and L-shape designs.

Black Series

Can you guess what’s different about this outdoor kitchen grill insert? That’s right, they’re a different color.

And that is actually the only difference! (Well, layout options are a bit different, to be fair.)

So if you prefer your BBQ island to have a sleek, black finish… You’ll prefer the black powder coat in this line, of course!

Otherwise, there are 10 unique configurations on offer, ranging from linear to L-shape.

Appliance options will include that same 6 burner gas BBQ grill, side infrared burner, and drawer storage. Beyond this, some layouts will also include an outdoor sink or glass door refrigerator.

That’s all there is to it!

Compact Series

Short on entertaining space? Mont Alpi’s Compact Series provides you with the same design, just on a smaller scale.

Once again, materials will be identical to the previous options. 304 stainless construction on the island and grill, with composite granite tops.

To save on space, these islands will come with a 4 burner grill, powder coated in black to match the island finish.

Currently, only two layout options are available. Both are linear layouts. the only difference is one will include a mini fridge… And the other will not.

Deluxe Series

On the other end of the spectrum… Mont Alpi allows you to deluxify your outdoor kitchen.

But you might not actually notice the difference at first! Rather than standard composite granite tops… They’re actually waterfall countertops for a more luxurious look.

Besides that, what makes these islands deluxe are the extra features. You’ll get a full-sized island cover, granite chopping board, and a rotisserie kit for your grill (this is an upgrade in other series).

A whopping 36 layout options are made available for purchase… So you can almost certainly find a design that speaks to you.

You can choose from layouts that are linear, L-shape, or L-shape with a corner unit.

Aside from the grill, infrared side burners, and drawer storage… You can select layouts that include a glass door refrigerator, kegerator, or outdoor faucet.

Product Highlights

Price: $2,700 – $12,000

Island Materials: 304 Stainless Steel

Warranty: Limited Lifetime on Island, Appliances Vary

Overall Thoughts: Complete 304 stainless construction is durable and overall a good choice. However, if you live in a coastal climate a 100% steel BBQ island may be cause for pause. The limited lifetime warranty is great to see. Limited finish and design options may not appeal to everyone.

The Best Outdoor Kitchen Grill Brand

Now that you’ve seen a few of the most prominent outdoor kitchen grill brands… Which is best for your family?

Well, we’ll respectfully abstain from voting, since we’ve included ourselves in the lineup.

However, we will say this… The best option to buy comes down to what you’re looking for.

Are you interested in a simple, short-term solution that won’t break the bank?

Cal Flame or Bull’s regular offerings might be a decent choice.

Do you want something impermanent, but still constructed with high quality materials?

Mont Alpi might be worth it.

Do you want an outdoor kitchen that’s rock solid, personalized to you, and designed to last a lifetime?

Well… Let’s give you some tips on that.

Get Started Now on Your Own Outdoor Kitchen SPACE

If you’re intrigued by what RTA products have to offer… Allow us to provide you with a little direction.

As we mentioned earlier, most homeowners interested in RTA start with our free online design tool.

This simple little designer allows you to start crafting your dream design in mere minutes. Plus, you’ll be rewarded with a 3D rendering of your layout immediately! (Talk about instant gratification.)

From there, one of our Design Experts will take the baton to refine your design. They’ll work one-on-one with you to nail down every last detail. (Grilling tools and all!)

Once you’re over the moon with your design and blueprints… Our manufacturing facility in Cambridge City, Indiana will get to work.

At the same time, you’ll be connected with a Project Manager to oversee the rest of the process.

While you wait patiently for your outdoor kitchen grill… Your Project Manager will educate you about preparing for installation, delivery, and be available to contact on the day of your install.

We won’t let off the gas until you’re happily entertaining with your new DIY outdoor kitchen!

It almost goes without saying, but… We’re with you every step of the way.

And if you’re ready for the full-service experience RTA can provide… Submit your design for free, and we’ll be in touch.

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

BOOK A CALL

Pizza Oven Cost: Surprising Price Breakdown & 2 Best Brands

Michael Calacino — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 17:29:15 +0000

Whether you’re an aspiring pizzeria owner or an avid home cook… Pizza is something we all can’t get enough of.

For us, Friday pizza night simply won’t satisfy our growing demand for mouthwatering, cheesy pies.

You want more.

You’ve come to the conclusion that anything less than pizza oven ownership won’t make the cut… Hence, why you’re after the details on pizza oven cost.

So how much does a pizza oven cost, anyway?
That’s exactly what we’re about to cut into.

We partner with two highly-rated pizza oven manufacturers for our outdoor kitchens… And through this experience, we have our finger on the pulse of price expectations.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

Quick Links:

3 Surprising Factors that Influence Pizza Oven Cost
What Kind of Pizza Oven is Right for You? 3 Types and Estimated Cost
2 Pizza Oven Brands to Consider That’ll Knock Your Socks Off
How to Take Your Pizza Oven Journey One Step Further

General Factors that Affect Pizza Oven Cost

Depending on your pizza baking needs, an outdoor pizza oven can set you back anywhere from $150 for a budget portable oven… All the way up to $50,000 for a commercial variety.

It’s an insanely huge range, we know.

We’ll get to the bottom of why there’s such a huge price discrepancy across the board… And narrow your focus down to the range that makes the most sense for your needs.

But first… We must discuss overall factors that affect pizza oven cost.

The Skinny on Fuel Source

You may be surprised to hear that pizza ovens can be fueled with far more than just wood!

Available fuel types have increased over the years… With wood, natural gas, propane, or electric pizza ovens all being encompassed in this category.

Since wood ovens are the most simple to produce… A plain ol’ wood burning pizza oven won’t add much to the bottom line.

Gas fired and electric ovens tend to be the next step up in price. You have several extra components and hookups to account for… As well as having a slightly more complex construction.

And for the biggest price jump… You have hybrid ovens.

As you can imagine, it’s a tricky feat to get an oven that can burn wood as well as gas. So to compensate for the added complexity and cost of materials… Hybrid ovens tend to be the most expensive fuel type.

But of course, fuel is only one part of the equation.

When it Comes to Price... Size Matters

While it may not be the whole story… Pizza oven size goes a long way to explain the huge price range we mentioned earlier.

Take residential pizza ovens, for example. You can find smaller residential pizza ovens for as low as $150… While the larger models extend beyond $6,000.

Most residential or DIY pizza ovens are sized in the following manner:

Small pizza ovens are 26” wide.

Medium pizza ovens are 27-33” wide.

Large pizza ovens are 34-42” wide.

XL pizza ovens are 43” and up.

The larger the oven, the more material is being used… Hence, the higher the price.

But we can’t just look at pizza oven size in a vacuum. Material quality is another key category to investigate.

How Materials Impact Backyard Pizza Oven Cost

Usually, the cheaper the pizza oven… The cheaper the quality.

Again, this one may seem obvious, but it’s important to bear in mind as you shop around.

Small, budget friendly models are often made with an unspecified grade of stainless steel… And many don’t even include insulation.

Down the road, low quality steel leads to rust and corrosion… But that lack of high quality insulation (or any at all) also leads to lackluster performance.

Heat retention between bakes will be poor, and you may even encounter hot spots in your oven.

So, what does a high quality outdoor pizza oven look like?

For the exterior materials, we like to see 304 stainless steel for countertop models. That said, brick, stone, and clay are all incredible options when constructed properly.

As for the price difference, 304 stainless steel ovens tend to be much less expensive than masonry materials. This is simply because masonry ovens are far more laborious to produce… And their immense weight makes them difficult to ship across the country.

In terms of insulation… There isn’t much of a price difference between ceramic fiber (most common), perlite, or rock wool.

But of course… The more insulation that’s used, the more that will bump up the cost of your oven.

All in all, material price is a mixed bag.

General factors aside… Let’s narrow down on exactly the type of pizza oven you need.

Got some extra change to spare?

Once you've got your pizza oven up and running... Consider an outdoor kitchen setup to bring your pizza station to completion.

DESIGN NOW

What Type of Pizza Oven Do You Need?

Are you planning for a full-blown pizzeria that cranks out Neapolitan style pizza all day long?

Are you looking for an outdoor oven that works for Chicago or New York style pizza alike?

Or what if you just want to make great pizza… With an oven that was made by your own hands?

Let’s take a look at your options.

Commercial Pizza Oven Cost

Restaurant quality pizza can only be made possible with the right equipment.

Broad strokes, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 – $50,000 on a commercial pizza oven.

No doubt, it’s a significant investment.

Believe it or not, there’s actually 4 different options just in the commercial category. So depending on what your dream pizzeria looks like… You can narrow your search down to the single best version for your needs.

Traditional brick ovens are generally what we think of when we hear “pizzeria”… And for good reason.

They’re aesthetically pleasing, incredibly durable… And churn out some of the best pizza pies you could ever taste.

For commercial use, brick pizza oven cost starts at around $10,000 for a small model… And goes up from there.

Conveyor pizza ovens are another option at your disposal. These are much more like a “factory-style” approach… Cooking pizzas on a conveyor belt, continuously pumping out pies at a rapid pace.

These ovens are generally electric or gas fired… So you may lack some smoky flavor and crispy crust like what you get from a traditional, high heat oven.

But the volume of what you produce is as good as it gets. No question about it.

On average, a conveyor pizza oven will run you around $5,000 – $30,000.

Pizza deck ovens can be utilized as a balance between efficiency and quality. These are double or triple deck ovens that allow you to bake 2-3 pizzas at a time.

They’re often equipped with stone or ceramic decks for improved radiant heat.

These electric ovens won’t retain heat as well as brick… So you will need to allow for more heat recovery time between bakes.

These days, a pizza deck oven can go for $5,000 – $30,000 depending on the model.

Convection ovens are a familiar household appliance… So it’s no surprise you can get a commercial-grade version for your fledgling pizzeria.

These can be purchased as either a gas pizza oven or electric oven. As with conveyors and deck ovens… You will lose some heat retention.

However, convection ovens are known for cooking more evenly… Which can reduce some of the impact of dampened heat retention.

All said and done… A convection oven can be an affordable ticket to starting your pizzeria in earnest. Most models will fall somewhere between $1,000 – $10,000.

Now, what if you’re not an aspiring pizzeria owner?

Residential Pizza Oven Cost

For our purposes, when we refer to a residential pizza oven… What we really mean is a countertop pizza oven.

This is an outdoor oven that’s premanufactured and requires little to no assembly on your part.

And as a general rule… These pizza ovens tend to be made with stainless steel of varying grades. (Again, 304 is best!)

This category offers wood fired pizza ovens, gas fired, and hybrid models for those of us who are indecisive!

A small, portable pizza oven that can cook a single 12” pie can start as low as $150… And tends to cap out at around $1,300 for premium versions.

But beyond that, the sky’s the limit.

Countertop ovens that can accommodate 2-5 pizzas at a time will start around $1,400 bare minimum… And shoot up to $6,000 or more for the bigger, restaurant-quality models.

Is bigger always better?

Not necessarily. If you want the ability to bake artisan bread loaves, casseroles, or other dishes in your outdoor oven… A bigger size will be more conducive to this, and may be worth the higher cost.

Or if you do want homemade pizza on-the-go for camping or tailgating… A more modest, portable version may actually be preferable.

Either way, the world of residential pizza ovens gets bigger every day… And there’s no doubt you’ll find an option that works well for you.

But if you’d like a recommendation… Stick around a little longer for our top picks!

But for now, we have one last category to cover.

DIY Pizza Oven Cost

If some of the prices you’ve seen so far have made your eyes pop out of your head… You might be looking for a low cost pizza oven.

So it’s no surprise that your interest may be piqued by a DIY option.

You’re just paying for materials and saving money on labor… So it should be cheaper, right?

Well… The cost to build an outdoor pizza oven isn’t always easy on the wallet.

Why?

Well, the materials are expensive! You won’t exactly be able to build a stainless steel oven on your own… So that means your only option is to build with masonry materials.

Between the fire bricks, exterior bricks (or clay), and insulation… You’re already into the project to the tune of around $2,400.

And that’s not even taking into account any additional tools you would need to purchase… And the cost of your time to build it.

Generally, despite the slightly lower cost to build a brick pizza oven over buying one… We recommend against pursuing a DIY project.

The reason comes down to skill level. Unless you have an extensive masonry background… The lack of experience with these types of projects will strongly work against you.

The pros make it look easy. Unfortunately, it’s not at all easy to pull off a well-constructed, handmade pizza oven.

Even a pizza oven kit doesn’t do much to reduce your efforts… The only time it saves you is the research of gathering materials.

So for the sake of your sanity… In most cases, you’re better served turning your attention to a residential or commercial oven.

Let’s circle back on those residential ovens, shall we?

The Best “Bang for Your Buck” Ovens

If you really get down to it… Most likely, you want your pizza oven to exemplify the following traits:

High quality & durable
Can reach super high temperatures for Neapolitan pizza
Retains heat well between bakes for day-long pizza parties
Impressive warranty for peace of mind

When we put it that way… It’s really not much to ask for, is it?

Thankfully, we know a brand or two that checks every box.

Coyote Pizza Oven Cost

Coyote Outdoor Living is a brand we proudly partner with for our outdoor kitchen appliances… And that’s because we truly are raving fans of their products!

Recently, Coyote released their very first outdoor pizza oven.

And we have to say… It’s an impressive debut into the pizza oven scene.

The Coyote DUOMO is a wood fired pizza oven that can cook up to 4 pizzas at a time.

With this large capacity, you can also bake bread or other dishes with ease.

It’s got a maximum temperature of an insanely-hot 1,000° Fahrenheit, and takes about 25-45 minutes to fully preheat the pizza stone.

In addition to 304 stainless steel construction… The Coyote DUOMO features ceramic fiber insulation throughout the dome, and even the chimney. (No other outdoor pizza oven has an insulated chimney!)

What this means for you is superior heat retention between bakes, more efficient fuel usage… And an oven that stays hot enough to use for far longer than usual.

Currently, this pizza oven is only able to run on wood as a heat source. Wood fired it is!

Coyote warrants this 40” pizza oven for a year… And is currently priced at $2,799.00.

Alfa Pizza Oven Cost

Italian-made ovens are an absolute powerhouse… And they’re offered in a wide range of sizes, depending on your needs.

Alfa provides 3 different pizza oven lines: Classico, Moderno, and Futuro. There are slight differences in performance and aesthetics across the board… But they all feature the same high quality construction.

Every Alfa oven is constructed with 304 stainless steel, their unique DoubleDown Ceramic Superwool®, and HeatKeeper Firebricks.

They’ve spent a lot of time engineering these ovens to utter perfection… So you can get a taste of Italy right in your own backyard.

As for fuel types and sizes… Depending on the line you choose, Alfa offers wood-fired, gas-fired, and hybrid ovens.

Sizes range from a portable oven that can cook a single pizza… All the way up to a gargantuan, 5 pizza capacity oven.

Alfa ovens take around 20 minutes or so to reach their peak temperature of 950°F.

These home pizza ovens are covered by a two year warranty… And prices will range from $888.00, all the way up to $6,300+.

So now that you’ve seen the average cost of outdoor pizza ovens across all categories… How do you take things to the next level?

Take Your Pizza Oven Journey One Step Further

The costs have been calculated… The tabulations have been made… By now, you should have a good idea of what your dream pizza oven might cost.

Now, you also have to think one step ahead.

Where are you going to put your brand-new pizza oven?

Sure, it could go on a simple stand… But where are you going to work on your pizza dough? And where’s your pizza peel going to go?

While there’s nothing wrong with prepping your pizza inside and bringing it outdoors… That’s a lot of extra hassle and mess that could be easily avoided.

With what?

With an outdoor kitchen.

Your beautiful pizza oven can sit on your outdoor kitchen… While leaving ample counter space for working on your dough, flipping it around, applying toppings, and launching it into the oven.

Everything is right there when you need it… And you can react quickly when a pizza is done. (They only take 90 seconds to cook, after all!)

Not to mention, an outdoor kitchen lets you keep all that mess outside. Clouds of flour, bits of cheese, crumbs of crust… None of it will have to be swept up from the floor or wiped down off your cabinets.

Keep the mess and fun outside… And enjoy pizza night like you never have before.

If your curiosity has been piqued, check out our free online design tool. It’s the easiest way to design an outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven… And we’ll pick up the details from there.

Happy designing!

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

BOOK A CALL

FAQ

How Much does a Pizza Oven Cost to Build?

The cost of building an outdoor pizza oven doesn’t really have an upper limit! If you’re choosing to build the oven yourself… On average, you can expect to pay at least $2,400 just in materials for a kit. This doesn’t include tools, or any other materials that may be required. If you are hiring a contractor to build a pizza oven for you, the cost will jump even more significantly from there.

HOW MUCH DOES A WOOD FIRED PIZZA OVEN COST?

When it comes to the cost of a wood fired pizza oven… The cost depends heavily on the size, material quality, and how they are constructed. A budget wood-fired portable oven can cost as little as $150… But a handmade, restaurant-grade brick pizza oven could cost $10,000 or more.