One of the most important decisions when planning an outdoor kitchen is choosing the right grill size. Bigger isn’t always better—and smaller isn’t always enough. The goal is to match the grill to how you actually cook, not just how it looks on display.
Think About How You Cook
Before picking a grill, ask yourself a few simple questions:
- How many people do you usually cook for?
- Do you cook full meals outside or just grill occasionally?
- Are you grilling burgers and steaks, or doing longer cooks with multiple items at once?
If you mostly cook for family and a few guests, a medium-sized grill is often more than enough. If you regularly host cookouts or entertain larger groups, a larger grill may make sense.
Space Matters More Than People Realize
Grill size isn’t just about cooking surface—it affects the entire layout of your outdoor kitchen. Larger grills require:
- More counter space on each side
- Proper airflow and clearance
- Room to fully open lids and doors
In tight spaces, a slightly smaller grill often works better and keeps the kitchen comfortable and functional.
Plan for the Future
If you think you may add a smoker, griddle, or pizza oven later, it’s smart to plan for that now. Choosing a grill that fits your needs today while leaving room for future upgrades helps avoid costly changes down the road.
My Approach to Appliance Planning
When I design a custom outdoor kitchen, I don’t start with the biggest grill—I start with the person cooking. Every kitchen is designed around how the homeowner uses it, the space available, and how everything will work together long-term.
The right grill size makes the entire kitchen work better.