Guest article supplied by British-made outdoor kitchen manufacturer, Grillo.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor kitchen, you may find yourself wondering: what are the essential outdoor kitchen features?
To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of must-have outdoor kitchen features to ensure your space is both functional and enjoyable.
Gas BBQ – The Heart of Any Outdoor Kitchen
A gas BBQ is an essential feature for any outdoor kitchen. With a fast heat-up time of just 10 minutes and easy temperature control, it’s the go-to option for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
The ideal size for most people is a 4-burner BBQ—it’s large enough to cater to a crowd, but not overly big for everyday use. Side burners and drop-in griddle plates offer versatility when cooking fish, eggs and delicate vegetables.
Gas BBQs are available in both plumbed-in and bottled gas variants, so take the time to consider which is best suited for your needs. Many models also have upgraded options, with additional features such as rotisserie burners and internal lighting.
Charcoal Kamado BBQ – Authentic Smoky Flavour
The kamado-style grill has a rich history, dating back over 3,000 years to China before being introduced to Japan. Its thick ceramic walls help retain heat and maintain a steady temperature, while the enclosed design locks in smoke and moisture for incredible flavour.
While a gas BBQ is the top choice for convenience, many outdoor kitchen owners also include a charcoal BBQ for a more theatrical and smoky cooking experience with exceptional versatility—whether you’re roasting, smoking, baking, or searing.
Pizza Oven – A Crowd-Pleasing Feature
A pizza oven adds an interactive and exciting element to any outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re making pizzas with family and friends or taking charge as the ultimate Pizzaiolo, this feature is a fantastic addition.
Top-of-the-range pizza ovens can heat up in just 25 minutes and can cook a pizza in just 90 seconds. Opt for a wood-fired stone base to ensure authentic Neapolitan crusts and rich flavours. The best part is being able to roll out the dough directly onto the outdoor kitchen worktops – meaning the mess and the action all happen in one place.
Chef’s Anvil BBQ – The Ultimate Showpiece
Inspired by the blacksmith’s anvil, the Chef’s Anvil is a striking and theatrical addition to any outdoor kitchen. Its large cooking surface and high heat output make it perfect for both small gatherings and large-scale entertaining. The heat of the cooking surface can be easily controlled by pushing wood or charcoal underneath the cooking plates.
Beyond grilling, it also serves as a fire pit—ideal for socialising around a warm glow, roasting marshmallows, or enjoying a cocktail evening with friends.The Chef’s Anvil truly belongs at the center of every outdoor kitchen.
Outdoor Bar Seating – The Social Hub
An outdoor bar is the perfect way to bring people together in your outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a lively dinner party, bar seating keeps guests engaged with the cooking action while providing a comfortable place to relax.
Choose bar seating that harmonises with the neutral design of the outdoor kitchen, creating a stylish and social focal point. Whether you opt for bar stools or a built-in bench, seating enhances the overall experience and ensures your space feels inviting and functional.
Drinks Station – Your Outdoor Cocktail Bar
No outdoor kitchen is complete without a dedicated drinks station. Whether you’re shaking up cocktails, pouring a crisp glass of wine, or simply enjoying a refreshing lemonade, a drinks station keeps everything within easy reach, not to mention how fantastic you’ll look embracing your inner mixologist.
The Drinks Station is ideal for ice storage, with a partition for fruit garnishes, as well as a rosewood shelf that sits proud above the ice The Drinks Station creates the ultimate outdoor bar experience.
Outdoor Fridge – Keep Drinks Ice-Cold
An outdoor fridge is an essential addition to any outdoor kitchen, keeping beverages cool and ingredients fresh. Whether you’re reaching for a cold beer on a hot summer’s day or storing marinades and sauces, a fridge ensures everything stays at the ideal temperature.
The best outdoor fridges for an outdoor kitchen are designed to withstand the elements, with weatherproof construction, internal lights and adjustable temperature settings to suit your needs.
Outdoor Sink – Convenient Hand-Washing & Cleanup
A sink is an often-overlooked but highly practical feature in any outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re rinsing fresh produce, marinating meats, or simply keeping hands clean while cooking, a built-in sink makes food prep and cleanup effortless.
An outdoor kitchen is the perfect complementary investment alongside a glazed extension – with huge thanks to Grillo for your expert insights into planning the features of an outdoor kitchen.