outdoor Kitchen

There are so many choices and options when building an outdoor kitchen.  I have used a gas grill for many years, but after lots of reading and research, I have decided to switch to charcoal “kamodo” style cooking.  I find these to be very effecient, plus you can bake, smoke, or grill all in one unit.  There are several brands to choose from, some of the most popular brands include: Big Green Egg, and Primo.  They all make different sizes to fit your needs.  I decided to put in two.  A medium size Big Green Egg-just right for when cooking for 2-4 people.  I have also decided to put in an XL primo-great for large crowds. They each have their own advantages, I suggest doing some research on-line before decided which works best for you.  For some people, a gas grill is best.  Regardless of which grill you prefer, an outdoor kitchen makes grilling out a lot more fun, plus it can add value to your home!

When thinking about an outdoor kitchen here is the “plan”

1. Decided what is important for you and decided on a budget.  Do you need lots of countertop/prep space?  Do you want to include a fridge?  What about a sink?  Do you need a side burner or a warming drawer?  What about a built in trash can?  The options are endless-you decided what is importat for you.  There are some local retailers and on-line retailers that can lead you in the right direction to make sure you stay within budget. 

2.  Decided on a location.  If you want your outdoor kitchen to be made of brick and be permanent-a blank brick wall works as a perfect back drop.  Also, you can have the kitchen built as an island with a serving bar on one side.

3.  Select build materials.  Brick lasts forever, but the structure can be made of wood.

4..Select contractor to help you or do-it yourself?

I designed my own outdoor kitchen.  I decided that I didn’t need a sink, trash can, or warming drawer.  What I really wanted was extra prep space and strorage areas for charcoal/firewood for the fireplace and grill accessories.
Here is my first sketch as I planned my new outdoor kitchen.

After the slab was poured I then drew the on the chalk and wall..so the brick masons could just follow my lines. 

The two large bays are for the 2 ceramic cookers to fit into.  A countertop will go over the entire unit-except for the two bays.  The opening to the left is for a stainless steel door to go for string grill accessories.

The hole on top on the left side is for a side burner. 
More pics and progress reports coming soon