Southern California loves to cook outside, almost all year long. Families fire up the grill on sunny Saturdays, and friends keep the coals glowing long after sunset. Because the climate is so cooperative, a solid backyard grill turns into the heartbeat of the whole yard.
Whether you need an outdoor kitchen grill you can move around, or perhaps a shiny built-in model that sits right in your outdoor kitchen. This step-by-step backyard BBQ guide covers fuel choices, size tips, must-have features, and the brands people trust the most. Read on, and you will walk away ready to snag the grill that turns your backyard into a sizzle zone.
This step-by-step backyard BBQ guide covers fuel choices, size tips, must-have features, and the brands people trust the most. Read on, and you will walk away ready to snag the grill that turns your backyard into a sizzle zone.
Step 1: Choose Your Fuel Type
One of the primary decisions to make when you search for the best grill type to buy is the fuel source you use. Each option has a different cooking experience, and depending on which you select, this will change how you cook and enjoy your meals.
Gas Grills
Gas grills are the go-to choice for most backyard cooks, and it’s easy to see why. One quick push of the igniter and you’re ready to sizzle. You can start, eat, and clean up while your charcoal neighbor is still waiting for those coals to turn grey.
- Pros: They fire up in seconds, hold heat like a champ, and can be cleaned with a soft brush and a dream.
- Cons: Smoke-flavor fans often claim the cookout tastes flat because theres no burning wood or charcoal.
- Best For:Busy families and casual backyard chefer who just want dinner on the table without a fuss.
If youre stuck deciding between gas vs charcoal grill, gas usually wins for everyday meals.
Charcoal Grills
Nothing beats the blast of smoky, wood-kissed flavor charcoal grills dish out. Due to their red-hot embers, you can sear a steak until its crust crackles.
- Pros: Authentic flavor, great heat for searing
- Cons: Longer prep time, more mess
- Best for: Grilling purists and weekend BBQ lovers
Pellet Grills
Combined with its rising popularity for wood-smoke flavor and the benefit of smart temperature controls, pellet grills are on the rise.
- Pros: Slow and even cooking, rich taste, WiFi/app control
- Cons: Requires electricity, higher initial cost
- Best for: Smoking meats and long, hands-off cook sessions
For anyone looking for precision and flavor in one package, the pellet grill advantages are plentiful.
Electric Grills
Electric grills fit neatly on a balcony or in a tiny kitchen corner, and they only require a regular power outlet to start cooking. Grease cleanup is quick because there are few moving parts and no charcoal mess.
- Pros: Easy to use, low smoke
- Cons: Lower heat, no smoke flavor
- Best for: Urban living and limited outdoor space
Step 2: Decide on Built-In vs Freestanding Grill
Deciding between a built-in grill and a portable setup depends on how you plan to spend time outside. There are pros and cons to each option. So, Let’s break it down.
Built-In Grills: A Seamless Custom Look
Installing a built-in grill for outdoor kitchen turns any patio into a real chef’s arena. The cooker sits flush with stone or wood counters and looks like part of the house rather than an afterthought. Friends and family will notice the tidy, upscale vibe as soon as they step outside. Serious grillers love that the station is always ready and never needs to be moved.
- Best For: Permanent setups, luxury backyards, and custom designs that call for everything to match.
- Bonus Feature: Many brands bundle side burners, quick-draw cutlery trays, and storage drawers so your tools are never far away.
Freestanding Grills: Flexibility & Mobility
A freestanding BBQ grill works wonders when you want the freedom to cook anywhere in the yard. These units are usually mounted on wheeled carts, so you can roll them out of the shed in minutes and move them away from blowing smoke. Plus, they’re often easier on the wallet and fit nicely on narrow balconies or patios.
Best For: Everyday use, smaller spaces, or changing layouts.
Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center has both built-in and portable grills from top brands. No matter what look or feature you crave, theres something to match your style.
Step 3: Pick the Right Grill Size and Cooking Power
Picking the best grill size for backyard means matching size and power to your cooking habits. Think about how many friends or family members usually crowd the patio and how much food you want ready, all at once.
Grill Size by Burners
- Small Grills (1-2 Burners):Suitable for 2–4 people, it’s a perfect grill for couples or small families with small patio space.
- Medium Grills (3-4 Burners):Handles daily dinners and bigger weekend cookouts without breaking a sweat.
- Large Grills (5+ Burners):Ideal for the frequent entertainer and those who require more space to cook up multiple dishes at once.
Understanding Cooking Power
When considering cooking power, consider the grill BTU guide as point of reference. Search for grills with approximately 80–100 BTUs per square inch of cook top. This way, you will have quick preheat times and evenly cooking food, all while saving fuel.
Also look for things such as double heat zones and quality burner materials that can help heat disperse across the grill more evenly.
At Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center there are sizes and power levels for every cooking requirement from the hundreds of square inch patio to the full-scale outdoor kitchen.
Must-Have Grill Features for 2025
Modern grills are filled with innovations that extend far beyond mere cooking. Whether you are an occasional griller or a backyard pitmaster, the right features can make the difference in how you cook and entertain. Here are the best BBQ features to look for in 2025:
Smart Technology
The smart grill options today include WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, so you can monitor and adjust your cooking temp on a mobile app. Certain models have meat probes that report back to your phone in real time so you never overcook a steak again. Great for hands-off cooking during a gathering or a busy evening.
Rotisserie Kits
A grill with rotisserie let you slowly cook chicken, lamb or a roast evenly and ensure it’s juicy and tender inside and crispy outside. It’s an entertaining mainstay over the weekends and can produce restaurant-quality meals in your own backyard.
Infrared Searing Burners
If you want a perfect steakhouse crust? Infrared burners provide intense, direct heat that sears meats fast and seals in juices. An essential for any grill master.
Side Burners & Griddles
Upgrade your cooking capabilities with side burners for sauces or a flat top griddle for breakfast and veggies. This means that you can cook full meals outside without ever going into the house.
Interior Lights & Hood Thermometers
Grilling after dark? Under the hood, there are built-in lights for night cooking, and integrated thermometers to maintain the right temperature throughout.
Heavy-Duty Stainless Steel Grates
They’re built to last and resistant to rust, and they do a great job of locking in the heat. Both are critical for evenly grilled meats as well as easy clean up.
From convenience to control, these top products fire up your grilling game. Discover revolutionary equipment today at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, and get the most out of your outdoor setting.
Top Outdoor Grill Brands at UAKC.net
If you’re serious about outdoor cooking, investing in a top-tier grill brand can make all the difference. At Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of luxury BBQ grill brands that combine performance, durability, and sleek aesthetics. These grills are built to impress and built to last.
DCS Grills
Known for their high-end outdoor grills, DCS delivers professional-grade power and durability. With double-sided stainless-steel grates, precision burners, and ceramic radiant rods for even heating, DCS grills are designed for serious backyard chefs who demand reliable performance.
Hestan Grills
If you want to add a splash of personality to your outdoor space, Hestan is the way to go. These colorful, high-tech grills offer smart features like motion-activated lighting, LED control panels, and precision temperature control. It’s style and substance in one impressive package.
Lynx Grills
Lynx is a favorite among those who want a sleek, stainless-steel finish paired with innovative tech. With infrared burners, rotisserie systems, and seamless design, it’s one of the top luxury BBQ grill brands for homeowners building a dream outdoor kitchen.
Explore these high-end outdoor grills at UAKC.net and find the right fit for your space, cooking style, and backyard vision.
Outdoor Kitchen Planning Tips
Designing the perfect outdoor cooking space involves more than just placing a grill on the patio. A well-thought-out outdoor kitchen layout ensures everything flows smoothly from food prep to serving guests. Whether you’re starting fresh or upgrading an existing area, planning ahead makes all the difference.
Start with Functionality
Begin by mapping out how you’ll use the space. Prioritize good ventilation around your grill, and make sure you have plenty of counter space for prepping and serving. Don’t forget storage, built-in cabinets and drawers help keep utensils, seasonings, and cleaning tools organized.
Include Must-Have Additions
To take your setup to the next level, consider integrating a refrigerator, prep sink, or even a warming drawer. These extras can transform your setup into a complete backyard kitchen design where everything you need is within reach.
Plan Utilities Early
Before construction begins, map out your electrical and gas lines. This avoids costly changes later and ensures your outdoor appliances operate safely and efficiently.
At Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, you’ll find a wide range of Outdoor appliances and accessories to bring your outdoor kitchen vision to life, whether it’s a modern, compact setup or a full chef-inspired layout.
The Takeaway
Choosing the right grill doesn’t just improve how you cook, it transforms your entire outdoor experience. Whether you’re hosting weekend BBQs, enjoying family dinners under the stars, or building your dream backyard kitchen, the right grill sets the tone.
At Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, you’ll find everything from compact gas models to fully integrated outdoor systems.
If you’re planning to shop outdoor grills Los Angeles homeowners love, explore our premium selection designed to match any backyard setup. As a trusted backyard BBQ store, we specialize in grills that combine performance, durability, and design.
Visit our website to Shop Outdoor Grills or stop by one of our six convenient Southern California showrooms in Studio City, Calabasas, Santa Clarita, Torrance, Costa Mesa, or Mission Viejo. Need help selecting the right grill? Contact Our Experts for personalized recommendations and expert advice. Your perfect outdoor cooking setup starts here.