Tag: outdoor grill

Freestanding vs. Built-In vs. Portable: Which Outdoor Grill Is Right for You?

Outdoor kitchens are now a popular choice among homeowners looking to cook and entertain outdoors, which adds value to the property. In Los Angeles, we are seeing more people invest in stylish open-air cooking spaces that match the indoors with plans ranging from casual weekend BBQs to fully outfitted outdoor dining areas. However, no matter how beautiful your space is, without the right grill, it won’t be functional.

When you design your outdoor kitchen, one of the most vital decisions will revolve around what type of grill fits best. This is why knowing the different outdoor grill types is essential. If you’re choosing between a freestanding grill vs a built-in or debating on a smaller option like a portable model, your decision will impact how you use the space and eat.

In this guide, we’ll discuss all styles of grills, including freestanding, portable, and built-in, along with their advantages and disadvantages, so that you can determine how to create the best outdoor grill setup that suits both your lifestyle and space needs.

What Is a Freestanding Grill?

A freestanding outdoor grill is among the most sought-after cooking options, especially for backyard grilling. These grills are self-contained units, and they usually come with wheels, making it easy to move them around your patio or yard. Most models feature a grill with cart design, which offers side shelves for prep work in addition to cabinets for storage and grill tool hooks, providing you with everything needed in one convenient setting.

This type of grill is great for homeowners looking for flexibility. If you like rearranging your outdoor space, need to store your grill during cold months, or even plan on traveling with it, freestanding units make all that simple. This type of unit is also smart for renters or anyone with limited outdoor space, as this doesn’t need permanent installation.

Most outdoor freestanding grills use gas as fuel, which provides easy ignition and strong heat output, making it efficient for everyday use. For elegant yet reliable backyard gas grills, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center offers stylish high-end models design, focusing on user convenience as well as performance.

Explore Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center for high-quality freestanding grill options that suit every patio or yard, and discover ones that complement your style of outdoor cooking.

What Is a Built-In Grill?

A built-in grill is perfect for homeowners seeking to integrate cooking equipment into a fully functional outdoor living kitchen. They are integrated directly into an outdoor countertop or outdoor grill island, providing a seamless integration with the surrounding stone, tile, or stainless-steel finishes. The end result is a sleek and modern outdoor space that exudes sophistication while serving as an extension of your indoor kitchen.

Beyond aesthetics, these grills are powerful. Permanent outdoor kitchen grills usually offers larger cooking surfaces, stronger burners, and additional amenities such as rotisserie kits and searing zones or infrared heat. These types of built-in grills are for those who like to cook on a daily basis and frequently host dinner parties or gatherings.

Keep in mind that these types of setups require meticulous planning during the installation phase, which involves additional work, but boosts long-term value for your home. If you’re designing a high-end outdoor kitchen and need a versatile, robust grill, built-in models won’t disappoint.

To complete your custom setup, visit Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, where you can browse different options and a premium selection of Built-In Grills.

What Is a Portable Grill?

A portable outdoor grill is an option for people who want to cook outside without having an extensive setup. Perfect for small patios, camping trips, beach outings, or tailgating. They’re relatively effortless to carry around, set up, and store.

Almost all portable grills are available in tabletop style or come with foldable legs, which facilitate easier packing and movement. They are also available in gas, charcoal, and electric, making it easier for you to choose based on your preferences. There are some models that have small propane canisters that work better for long-distance travel.

Even though these grills are smaller in size compared to regular outdoor grills, they still provide enough cooking space for burgers, steaks, hot dogs, and grilled veggies, which makes them ideal for anyone without much space or who wants an additional grill for fast meals.

For those looking for something uncomplicated that can be easily taken on the go, portable outdoor grills allow you to cook anywhere while providing taste and convenience.

Comparison Chart: Freestanding vs. Built-In vs. Portable Grills

Comparing different types of outdoor grills side by side makes choosing the right one simpler. This grill comparison chart summarizes important outdoor grill features such as ease of setup, mobility, power output, and pricing. Making it easier to weigh the grill pros and cons of each style.

Feature

Freestanding Grill

Built-In Grill

Portable Grill
Mobility High – can be moved easily on wheels None – stays fixed in outdoor island Very High – lightweight and travel-friendly
Installation No installation required Yes – permanent installation into island No installation required
Cooking Power Medium to High – great for daily use High – powerful burners and large cooking area Low to Medium – designed for small batches
Ideal For Everyday backyard use, renters, small patios Full outdoor kitchens, luxury entertainment Camping, tailgating, small balconies
Price Range $1000–$5,000 $5,000–$15,000+ $100–$1500

 

Freestanding grills are great value choices considering their price, features, and flexibility. Built-in grills offer unparalleled performance and aesthetics if you plan to install them permanently. For convenience meals, portable grills are the best.

If you need help choosing a particular model, you can always see the best-rated models up close and receive professional guidance at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center showrooms.

How to Choose the Right Grill for Your Space

When selecting an outdoor grill, start with how it aligns with your area, lifestyle, cooking habits, and budget. Here are some important areas to consider when choosing an outdoor grill that truly works for you.

How Often Do You Grill?

For frequent users (especially for hosting family get-togethers), built-in outdoor grills may become the best grill for backyard as they usually provide ample power for an entire menu and have generous cooking space. This style also provides a polished look appropriate for regular use. On the other hand, for occasional or backup users who want something more versatile, start with portables or freestanding grills instead.

How Much Space Do You Have?

Space matters. If you have a big patio or are designing an outdoor kitchen, a built-in model will slide right into your layout. But in a cramped space, or if you plan to store the grill when not in use, a free-standing or portable outdoor grill may be a more efficient use of space.

Do You Need to Move the Grill?

With a freestanding grill, you have more options. It can be moved or stored away with minimal effort. If mobility is your top concern, portable grills are even better. On the other hand, built-in grills are not movable, they are permanently affixed in place after installation.

What’s Your Budget?

The most affordable options include portable and freestanding models. Built-in grills are pricier, but offer high-end performance and long-term value, making them a good long-term investment. Make sure that your budget aligns with your outdoor cooking expectations.

When you start Outdoor kitchen planning, it helps to think about how you will be using the space. So, by getting the right grill, you are making sure that your grilling setup is going to last for years to come and that you will have a great time cooking on it.

Visit Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center to Explore Outdoor Grill Options

Building the perfect outdoor kitchen requires proper guidance and quality products. At Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center, we take pride in being the outdoor kitchen experts serving all of Southern California. Our team is readily available to advise you on selecting the right type of grill and help you with every aspect of your full outdoor setup design.

As one of the most trusted Outdoor Grill Showrooms in Los Angeles, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center stocks a wide range of premium grills, including portable units, freestanding models, as well as built-in grills for custom islands. We have live displays so you can ask questions and receive tailored recommendations based on cooking preferences, budgets, and space constraints.

You can easily walk into any of Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center Showrooms in Studio City, Calabasas, Santa Clarita, Costa Mesa, Torrance, or Mission Viejo to check out the innovations in outdoor cooking equipment from top brands.

Visit our luxury grill stores in LA and OC and speak with our team today to get started right away! Let us assist you in designing an outdoor cooking area that complements your lifestyle.

The Takeaway

Picking the right grill can totally transform the way you experience your outdoor space. A freestanding grill gives you the versatility to move it where you want, while a built-in model delivers a high-end, permanent look, along with extensive, lasting value to your outdoor kitchen space. If you want a small and simple option you can take anywhere, a portable grill provides easy meals without a big footprint.

Whatever option works best for your lifestyle, Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center has the right luxury backyard grill choice for you. Whether you need a tabletop or a full-scale outdoor kitchen, we offer a wide variety of best-rated models to choose from.

Want to shop outdoor grills in LA or searching for a grill store near me? Explore Outdoor Grills at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center and get pro assistance now.

 

 

 

Outdoor Grill Buying Guide 2025: How to Choose the Best BBQ for Your Backyard

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.

How to Choose the Right Grill

As the temperatures start to increase, many of us start to think about making use of our outdoor space and grilling. Grilling to perfection is an art form that can take a bit of practice. This starts with using the right grill, but we’re here to help with some guidance on choosing the best grill for your needs.

Choosing the Fuel Source

The first factor to consider, when buying a new grill, is the fuel source. This may be determined by the available fuels in your neighborhood and fuel costs. It is often a matter of personal preference, but you will have a myriad of choices from pellets to liquid gas or propane. You will need to think carefully about your ideal fuel source. For example, if your home is equipped with natural gas, it is convenient to choose a natural gas grill. If you lack grilling confidence propane is a good option. Some chefs enjoy the control offered by propane, but there are still traditionalists who insist charcoal offers the best results.

The Grill Size

Grills are available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations, so you will need to think about what size you will need. A good rule of thumb is to base your grill size on how many people you will be cooking for and how frequently you intend to grill. There is no point in having a massive grill if you will only be cooking for two people every other weekend over the summer. If you enjoy grilling side dishes as well as fish and meat, you are likely to need a much larger cooking surface. You may even prefer a grill with side sections to keep your non meat items separate for any fussy eaters or vegetarians. Before you make any final decisions about grill size, take a look at your outdoor area and check the available space. You won’t want to compromise your seating area with an overly large grill if space is restricted. Remember you will need to have a clear pathway to move around the grill safely, so double check any measurements before making a purchase decision.

Construction Materials

In many cases, your budget may determine the choice of construction materials. Steel tends to be used on higher quality grills, but there is usually a choice of aluminum, stainless steel or cast iron. The construction materials are not just an aesthetic consideration; you need to look at the durability and functionality of the grill. Look for a grill that has strong welds and sturdy construction for maximum durability.

Additional Features

These days, there is more to outdoor cooking than a basic grill. While there are still basic models available, there are now units with some fantastic additional features. Some models feature side burners, rotisseries and even warming racks or drawers. These features can be invaluable if you enjoy hosting summer parties and will frequently be serving a large crowd. If you enjoy the entire outdoor cooking experience, look for a grill with additional prep space, so you don’t need to rely on popping back and forth to your indoor kitchen.

A Final Note

Finally, before you make a purchase decision and start shopping for your new grill, you need to assess your yard. Your new grill will need an outdoor area that has a level surface and plenty of space. There should be enough space between your home and the grill to prevent any fires or accidents. It is worth taking a few measurements to double check before you make your purchase.

No summer party is complete without a grill, and if are looking to purchase a grill, you can explore the available options with this online collection of outdoor appliances or contact a home appliance expert for further help.