The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Grill, Griddle, Side Burner, Pizza Oven & Kamado Grill for Your Outdoor Kitchen
TL;DR
- Choosing the right outdoor cooking appliance depends on what you cook, how often, and how many people you serve.
- Natural gas vs. propane: Natural gas is cost-efficient and convenient, while propane provides higher heat and portability.
- Grills vs. Griddles: Grills are ideal for searing meats, while griddles offer even heat for breakfast foods and smash burgers.
- Side Burners add versatility, allowing you to prepare sauces, boil water, or sauté vegetables while grilling.
- Pizza Ovens deliver an authentic pizzeria experience, reaching temperatures over 900°F for restaurant-quality pies.
- Kamado Grills offer superior heat retention, allowing for grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking with charcoal flavor.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Cooking Appliance
1. Start with Your Cooking Goals
Before buying a grill, griddle, side burner, pizza oven, or kamado grill, ask yourself:
- What do I cook most often? Steaks? Burgers? Vegetables? Pizzas? Smoked meats?
- How often do I cook? Daily? Weekends? Special occasions?
- How many people do I cook for? Family-sized meals or large gatherings?
- How will my cooking setup fit into my patio or outdoor space?
- What is the ambient temperature where I live?
- What is the elevation where I live?
These questions help determine the correct size, BTU’s, and brand.
2. Natural Gas vs. Liquid Propane – Which One is Best?
Natural Gas (NG) – Best for Permanent Outdoor Kitchens
- Lower long-term cost – No refilling tanks, just a constant gas supply.
- Convenience – Never run out of fuel mid-cook.
- Eco-friendlier than propane – Burns cleaner with fewer emissions.
- Requires a gas line connection – Must be installed by professionals like The Patio Experience.
Liquid Propane (LP) – Best for Portability & High Heat
- Higher heat output – Burns hotter than natural gas.
- Portable and flexible – No need for a built-in gas line.
- Easier to install – Just connect a propane tank.
- Higher fuel cost over time – Refilling tanks adds up.
We’re all about the best experience possible! Our recommendation is almost always a built-in, natural gas cooking appliance.
3. Grills vs. Griddles – What’s the Right Choice?
Gas & Propane Grills – Best for Searing & Charred Flavor
- Ideal for steaks, burgers, chicken, and vegetables.
- Flame-kissed char for rich BBQ flavor.
- Available in freestanding or built-in models.
- Temperature control via multiple burners.
Best for: BBQ enthusiasts who love smoky, seared flavors and need a versatile all-purpose grill.
Flat-Top Griddles – Best for Even Cooking & Breakfast Favorites
- Perfect for eggs, pancakes, bacon, smash burgers, and stir-fries.
- Even heat distribution – no flare-ups or cold spots.
- Great for high-volume cooking.
- Available in gas and electric models.
Best for: Breakfast lovers, fast meal prep, and cooking delicate foods.
4. Side Burners – The Secret Weapon for Versatile Cooking
- Boil water for pasta or seafood.
- Prepare sauces and side dishes while grilling.
- Available in single or double burner configurations.
- Uses the same gas line as your main grill.
Best for: Home chefs who want full outdoor kitchen functionality.
5. Pizza Ovens – Elevate Your Outdoor Cooking Experience
- Cooks at ultra-high temperatures (700°F to 900°F).
- Delivers authentic wood-fired or gas-powered pizzas in minutes.
- Versatile – can cook breads, steaks, and roasted vegetables.
- Available in portable, countertop, and built-in models.
Best for: Pizza lovers and those who want a true gourmet outdoor cooking experience.
6. Kamado Grills – The Ultimate All-in-One Cooking System
- Uses charcoal for rich, smoky flavor.
- Excellent heat retention for consistent cooking temperatures.
- Capable of grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting.
- Adjustable air vents provide precise temperature control.
- Ideal for slow-cooking brisket or searing steaks at high heat.
Need fuel guidance? Read our Natural Gas vs. Propane Comparison.
Shopping for a new grill? See our Best Grills of 2025 Guide.
Call (833) 837-2846 for a FREE expert consultation, or schedule a time to talk here.
