Summertime in Lafayette is all about enjoying the great outdoors, and what better way to do that than by cooking and eating outside?

Having an outdoor kitchen is like having a second kitchen without the need for a full renovation. You can cook, prep, and serve food all in one convenient spot, steps away from your dining area. And with the right outdoor kitchen appliances, you can make everything from simple burgers to gourmet meals that your guests will love.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have outdoor kitchen appliances for your summer BBQs.

Grills

The grill is the centerpiece of your outdoor kitchen, and choosing the right one is key. Here are the main types of grills:

1. Gas Grills: Popular, easy to use, and offer precise temperature control.
2. Charcoal Grills: Loved for their smoky, chargrilled flavor.
3. Electric Grills: Compact, easy to clean, and great for small spaces.
4. Pellet Grills: Use wood pellets for a unique, smoky taste and are ideal for slow cooking.

What to Look for in a Grill

When picking a grill, consider these factors:

1. Size: Choose a grill that fits your outdoor kitchen space and cooking needs.
2. Features: Decide which features (wheels, side burners, etc.) are must-haves.
3. Fuel Type: Consider convenience, flavor, and your personal preferences.
4. Budget: Set a realistic budget and stick to it.

The best grill for your outdoor kitchen is one that fits your space, cooking style, and budget.

Outdoor Refrigerators

Having a dedicated outdoor fridge means you can keep all your food and drinks in one convenient place, right where you need them. No more constant trips to the indoor kitchen, no more warm beer or spoiled sides.

What to Look for in an Outdoor Refrigerator

Not all outdoor refrigerators are created equal. When you’re shopping for one, keep these key features in mind:

1. Size: Choose a fridge that fits your outdoor kitchen space and can hold enough food and drinks for your typical gatherings.
2. Technical Specifications: Look for a fridge with an Underwriter Laboratories (UL) rating, which means it has undergone rigorous safety testing. An Energy Star rating is also important for quality performance while using less energy.
3. Durability: Your outdoor refrigerator needs to withstand the elements, so choose one that’s built to last. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to rust.
4. Features: There are many features available for outdoor refrigerators, such as adjustable shelves, glass doors, automatic defrost, and more.

Ice makers

No one wants a lukewarm drink on a hot summer day. An ice maker guarantees you’ll always have plenty of ice on hand for your thirsty guests. Plus, it saves you the hassle of constantly running to the store for bags of ice or filling up trays in your indoor freezer.

Types of Ice Makers

When it comes to ice makers, you have some options:

1. Freestanding Ice Makers: If you have the space and want to enjoy large amounts of ice, a freestanding ice maker is for you. It usually comes with a storage bin to store the ice.
2. Built-In Ice Makers: If you’re going all-out with your outdoor kitchen appliances, a built-in ice maker is the way to go. These are installed directly into your outdoor kitchen setup, giving you a seamless look and a constant supply of ice.
3. Countertop Ice Makers: These don’t require any installation, making them a great choice if you have the counter space.

What to Look for in an Outdoor Refrigerator

1. Production Capacity: How much ice do you really need? If you’re regularly hosting big crowds, look for an ice maker with a high production capacity. Smaller gatherings can get by with a lower output.
2. Storage Capacity: Once the ice is made, where does it go? Make sure your ice maker has enough storage capacity to keep up with your needs, so you’re not constantly emptying it out.
3. Size: Just like with any outdoor kitchen appliance, size matters. Measure your space and choose an ice maker that fits comfortably without overwhelming your setup.

An ice maker is a small but mighty addition to your outdoor kitchen appliances arsenal. It might not be the first thing on your list, but when you’re sipping a perfectly chilled drink at your next summer BBQ, you’ll be glad you have one.

Read Also: Summer BBQ Party Essentials

Reading up on outdoor kitchen appliances is helpful, but viewing them in person and getting expert guidance is a completely different experience.

So here’s what we suggest: take all the tips you’ve gained from this guide and head on over to Facets of Lafayette, your go-to outdoor kitchen appliance store in Lafayette, LA. Our friendly and knowledgeable Showroom Consultants will be more than happy to walk you through our inventory, answer any questions you have, and help you pick out the perfect appliances for your dream outdoor kitchen.

Even if you’re not quite ready to buy, just stopping by the store and seeing these outdoor kitchen appliances in person can give you a much better sense of what you want and need.