Outdoor cooking has come a long way since man discovered fire about 2 million years ago. In the 17th century, a form of open-flame cooking developed in the West Indies called barbacoa. Spices and fragrant woods were used for cooking whole animals that were often spitted. Years later, Americans adopted the style, and when southerners began experimenting with spices and different woods, it kickstarted the country's cooking just for pleasure. Fast forward to 1958, when the first natural gas grill went on the market, and the industry has been advancing ever since. Since the 1990s, outdoor kitchens have been the rage, and their use has increased as we now spend about 17 hours a week outdoors, up from 14 before the Covid pandemic started.

The benefits of an outdoor kitchen, especially when you include a dining area to go with it, are plentiful. For starters, it can make your yard the neighborhood's place for a cookout and provide a secondary place for an intimate dinner with the family when the weather is nice. With an outdoor kitchen on your property, it's as easy as stepping outside to get a change of scenery rather than going out to a restaurant. While interior kitchens can cause a temperature rise and increase cooling costs, cooking outside allows you to enjoy the fresh air and knock some bucks off your electric bill. Outdoor kitchens can bring in a wonderful return on their investment, anywhere from 55-200%.

There's no better feeling than having the wind blowing through your hair during the summer as you open your outdoor fridge and grab a cold soda on a muggy day. Another great idea that has gained popularity is installing an island. An island gives the cook a place to handle and prep the food without making multiple trips into the house. For extra hidden storage, it can have drawers or cabinets for holding cookware and silverware. A larger island can provide a place for hors d'oeuvres and guests to gather and socialize during a get-together while separating the cooking area. 

For your new addition to remaining in tip-top shape, we use top-of-the-line materials, both weather and insect-proof. Cabinet materials range from woods like teak or cedar, marine-grade polymers, or stainless steel. Appliances are popularly made of stainless steel, and countertops can be stone or steel as well. If stone is chosen, soapstone and granite are favorites because of their durability and resistance to staining.

No matter what style suits your home, you can be sure that King Kutz Landscaping can put together your perfect outdoor space. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Frequently Asked Outdoor Kitchen Questions

Q1. What are the essential components of an outdoor kitchen?

A1. An outdoor kitchen typically includes several key elements to ensure functionality and convenience. The primary component is a grill or barbecue, which serves as the central cooking station. Additionally, most outdoor kitchens include counter space for food preparation, storage cabinets for utensils and supplies, and a sink for easy cleaning. Many also feature a refrigerator to keep ingredients and drinks cold. For added comfort and utility, some outdoor kitchens may include a dining area, a bar, a pizza oven, or specialty appliances like smokers or wine coolers.

Q2. How do I choose the right location for my outdoor kitchen?

A2. Selecting the ideal location for an outdoor kitchen involves considering several factors. First, proximity to the main house is important for ease of access, especially to the indoor kitchen. Second, the layout should provide adequate space for cooking, dining, and moving around comfortably. Additionally, consider the direction of prevailing winds to minimize smoke and cooking odors drifting into the house or seating areas. Sunlight and shade patterns are also important for comfort, as is the view from the kitchen. Lastly, make sure the chosen location can support necessary utilities like gas, electricity, and water.

Q3. What materials are best suited for outdoor kitchens?

A3. Durability and weather resistance are key when choosing materials for an outdoor kitchen. Stainless steel is a popular choice for appliances and sinks due to its rust resistance and ease of cleaning. For countertops, materials like granite, concrete, and tile are preferred for their durability and ability to withstand outdoor elements. When selecting cabinetry, consider marine-grade polymer or stainless steel for moisture resistance. For flooring, concrete, brick, and natural stone are excellent options as they are durable and can complement the outdoor environment. It's important to choose materials that not only withstand the weather but also match the style and ambiance of your outdoor space.