Gone are the days when an outdoor kitchen was just a simple grill and a cooler full of drinks. Today, homeowners are investing in high-end outdoor kitchen appliances that rival their indoor counterparts, transforming backyards into fully functional culinary spaces. From built-in refrigerators and sleek sinks to professional-grade grills and even pizza ovens, the modern outdoor kitchen is designed for both convenience and luxury.
“Being able to integrate appliances into the outdoor kitchen like grills, refrigerators, sinks, etc – I know this seems obvious, but I think 90% of the designs that I do always want to have at least one of these appliances in their outdoor kitchen,” shares Christa Torvinen, Design Team Manager at Werever Outdoor Cabinets.
This shift toward premium outdoor cooking spaces isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an effortless and enjoyable cooking experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing an elegant al fresco dinner, the right appliances ensure your outdoor kitchen functions just as efficiently as your indoor one. In this post, we’ll highlight the must-have appliances that are elevating outdoor kitchens to the next level.
1. Built-In Grill
A high-quality built-in grill is the heart of any outdoor kitchen. It’s the foundation for everything from seared steaks to perfectly charred vegetables, making it a must-have for avid cooks and casual grillers alike.
Griffin Trautweiler, Director of Operations at Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets & More, says: “80% or more of our clients are looking for an upper-mid grade option like Delta Heat, Lynx Sedona, or Artisan—these grills bring exceptional durability and performance.”
Look for grills with multiple burners, temperature control, and plenty of space for all your culinary creations. If you’re a dedicated grillmaster, investing in a reliable brand ensures you’ll be flipping burgers and sizzling shrimp for years to come. An outdoor grill cabinet can be custom-made to fit your built-in grill so it looks elegant and saves space.
2. Outdoor Refrigerator
Keep drinks chilled and ingredients fresh with an outdoor-rated refrigerator. Choose a model specifically designed to withstand varying weather conditions while maintaining consistent cool temperatures – ensuring you can whip up meals without running back inside. For larger setups, consider adding freezer drawers or an ice maker to elevate convenience.
3. Quality Countertop
Unlike indoor surfaces, outdoor countertops are exposed to sun, rain, and even grease from grilling, so selecting a non-porous, weather-resistant material ensures longevity and easy maintenance. Investing in premium materials not only enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor kitchen but also provides a sturdy, long-lasting surface that can handle everything from food prep to serving and entertaining.
“Great countertop materials include dekton, granite, quartzite, or soapstone,” explains Jennifer Robbins of Backyard Specialist.
Trautweiler also shared that 90% of countertops they do for their clients are granite.
4. Weatherproof Cabinets
Durable, weatherproof cabinetry is a crucial element of any outdoor kitchen, ensuring both functionality and longevity in an open-air environment. Unlike indoor cabinets, outdoor cabinetry must withstand exposure to rain, humidity, intense sun, and fluctuating temperatures without warping, fading, or deteriorating.
High-quality materials such as HDPE outdoor cabinets offer superior resistance to moisture, UV rays, and pests. It is also extremely easy-to-clean and has been known to withstand hurricane conditions, flooding, and other storm events.
5. Plentiful Storage
Outdoor storage is a key component of a well-designed outdoor kitchen, helping to keep the space organized, functional, and clutter-free. Outdoor pantry cabinets are a great addition, providing ample room to store cookware, grilling tools, and even non-kitchen-related items.
“Having a separate area to store other outdoor items like pool accessories, lawn/gardening tools, cushions, blankets, and pillows [is important],” says Whitney Paden, Director of Operations at Werever Outdoor Cabinets.
These cabinets keep essentials protected from the elements while ensuring everything is easily accessible when needed. Additionally, outdoor trash cabinets offer a sanitary and space-saving way to conceal waste bins, preventing odors and keeping pests away.
“I know that seems kind of silly, but a lot of people are always requesting a cabinet for their trash, and truly I would want one in [my kitchen],” Torvinen also shares. “It’s different from just putting a bin under the sink, you get a lot more use out of one of those trash cabinets. I think it’s very useful, especially if you don’t have a sink cabinet.”
6. Sink and Faucet
A sink with a durable, stainless steel faucet adds unparalleled convenience, making cleanup easy and allowing you to prep food right in your outdoor kitchen. Whether you’re rinsing vegetables or washing up utensils, a sink with a stainless steel faucet is a practical addition that enhances your kitchen’s convenience. Ensure your space is pre-plumbed for quick installation for this appliance is a practical addition to keep your area tidy and functional.
An outdoor sink base cabinet offers an easy way to integrate a sink into your space.
7. Ventilation Hood
If your outdoor kitchen is under a covered structure, like a lanai, proper ventilation is a necessity. A quality ventilation hood draws smoke and heat away, keeping your space comfortable and safe.
Griffin Trautweiler points out: “More than half of our projects get hoods now, and we don’t need to pull teeth to get them to do so. Many clients see builders already installing roof boots and ducts, or they simply understand its importance in a covered lanai.”
This often-overlooked feature ensures you can enjoy your kitchen without worrying about lingering smoke.
8. Pizza Oven
Make pizza parties an unforgettable experience with a dedicated pizza oven. Pizza ovens are becoming increasingly popular for outdoor kitchens, allowing you to bake restaurant-quality pizzas, breads, and more. While not a necessity for everyone, they’re a dream for backyard chefs who want to create wood-fired masterpieces at home.
9. Versatile Cooking Options
Expand your menu beyond grilling. Incorporate a griddle, power burner, or side burner into your kitchen.
Griffin notes: “1 in 5 of our clients ends up adding some kind of griddle—whether it’s a griddle plate on the grill, a standalone griddle, or even both. Having that flexibility changes the way you cook outdoors.”
With these additions, your outdoor kitchen becomes a place of endless culinary possibilities. And, with sideburner cabinets, alternative cooktops are easier to incorporate than ever.
10. Bar Seating and Entertainment
Your outdoor kitchen isn’t just about cooking – it’s about creating a welcoming space. Add outdoor bar seating for guests to gather, and consider extras like a weatherproof TV or sound system to level up your hosting game. Transform your space into the ultimate hangout spot. Your friends and family can chat with you while enjoying appetizers or drinks – perfect for making lasting memories.
Bonus Tip: Keep Functionality in Mind
While designing your outdoor kitchen, consider the layout and workflow. Ensure everything you need is within reach (utensils, cooking tools, and even outdoor items like pool accessories), and optimize the traffic flow to create a seamless cooking and entertaining space. You’ll also want to keep traffic flow in mind to make the space efficient and user-friendly.
Make Your Dream Outdoor Kitchen a Reality
Outfitting your outdoor kitchen with these essentials will transform your backyard into the ultimate culinary retreat. Not sure where to start? Looking for more inspiration or tips? Contact us to start building your perfect outdoor kitchen.
Feeling confident? Request your free product samples and kick off your custom design today. Get started today and bring the outdoor kitchen of your dreams to life!