Grills

Built-in or freestanding

A built-in grill drops into an island or a masonry surround and becomes part of a permanent outdoor kitchen. A freestanding unit rolls where you need it and moves with you. The decision is really about whether the outdoor kitchen already exists or is being planned around the grill.

Burner count and cooking area

Four burners handle a family and occasional guests. Six burners give you independent heat zones, which is what you want for cooking different things at once rather than everything at one temperature. Width matters as much as burner count. A narrow grill and a wide one can both have six burners and cook very differently.

Fuel

Propane runs off a standard cylinder and needs no installation. Natural gas needs a line run to the grill, which is a plumber's job, but never needs refilling.

Before you order

Grills at this size ship freight. Confirm the path from the delivery point to where the grill will live, and for a built-in, confirm the cutout dimensions against the island before ordering rather than after.

Backyard Essence is a veteran-owned outdoor living retailer. Grills ship factory direct from the manufacturer.