Choosing the right countertop for your outdoor kitchen is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in the process. Much like a chain being only as strong as its weakest link, a weak or inappropriate choice here can compromise the entire outdoor kitchen.
The best countertops for outdoor kitchens must withstand the elements, heat, and wear while complementing the beauty of your space.
💡 Note: Werever does not ship or manufacture countertops. However, our cabinetry is designed to accept virtually any countertop material. If you use our free outdoor kitchen design service, you’ll get a detailed layout that can be taken to your local countertop supplier for a fast and accurate quote.
Granite Countertops (⭐ Our Top Pick)
Why It Works
Granite is our top recommendation; it’s nature’s original countertop. Extremely durable, weather-resistant, naturally beautiful, and time-tested, granite comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors, so it’s easy to match your kitchen’s design. It has been granite for millions of years, and will continue to be for millions more.
Estimated Cost:
$35–$80 per sq. ft., with premium slabs reaching $200–$3,000 in upcharges.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- UV-resistant (especially in lighter colors)
- Weather-resistant
- Scratch and heat-resistant
- Visually stunning with unique natural patterns
- Readily available from many suppliers
Cons:
- Needs occasional sealing
- Some rare or exotic types may be more fragile
Pro Tip: Expensive doesn’t mean better. Ask your supplier to show you the most affordable slabs first. If you find a color you like, you’re done!
Concrete Countertops
Why It Works
Concrete is fully customizable and gives your outdoor kitchen a sleek, modern look. It’s naturally weather-resistant and can be stained or textured for aesthetics.
Estimated Cost:
$65–$135 per sq. ft. (varies significantly based on customization)
Pros:
- Customizable color and shape
- Modern, industrial aesthetic
- Durable when sealed properly
- Withstands heat well
- Trend-forward look
Cons:
- Prone to cracking if not installed correctly
- Skill-intensive installation
- Hard to repair if cracking or pitting occurs
- Quality varies significantly by contractor
- Requires sealing to avoid staining
Best Use: When you find a skilled local fabricator with a portfolio you trust.
Quartz Countertops
Why It Works (Sometimes)
Quartz is a beautiful engineered stone. It’s non-porous and doesn’t require sealing. However, most quartz products are not warranted for outdoor use due to UV exposure.
Estimated Cost:
$60–$120 per sq. ft.
Pros:
- Consistent color and texture
- Engineered for beauty and consistency
- Non-porous and stain-resistant
- Low maintenance
- Doesn’t require sealing
- Elegant appearance
Cons:
- Can fade in direct sunlight (no UV inhibitors)
- Typically not covered by warranty outdoors
- Typically more expensive than granite
Best Use: Only consider quartz in covered areas with minimal direct sunlight.
Tile Countertops
Why It Works
Tile is a great DIY-friendly option for small projects and budget-conscious builds.
Estimated Cost:
$10–$30 per sq. ft. (plus labor or your time)
Pros:
- DIY-friendly for handy homeowners
- Inexpensive materials
- Easy to replace broken tiles
- Wide variety of design options
Cons:
- Prone to cracking from weather shifts
- Labor-intensive
- Grout requires sealing and maintenance
- Substrate (underlayer) must be waterproof (never use plywood!)
Best Use: Small projects or budget installs with proper substrate. Otherwise, skip in favor of stone.
Laminate (Formica) Countertops
Why It Doesn't Work
Laminates like Formica might work indoors, but they’re a hard “no” outdoors. Even “outdoor-rated” versions will fail because the particleboard underneath will swell and deteriorate when exposed to moisture.
Cons:
- Can trap moisture and harbor mold
- Built on particleboard, which swells with moisture
- Falls apart quickly in any outdoor condition over time, even under covered patios
- You’ll likely have to replace it within the first year
Verdict: Don’t make this expensive mistake. Skip laminate altogether for outdoor use.
Save yourself from replacing two countertops.
Summary: Which Countertop Is Best?
Need Help Choosing?
If you’re looking for the best countertop for your outdoor kitchen, granite is your safest, most reliable choice. It blends durability, aesthetics, and affordability like no other material. If you’re designing a covered kitchen, quartz can also be a beautiful option, just be cautious of sun exposure.
Need help selecting your countertop? Contact us for free advice, or get a custom outdoor kitchen design, and take your detailed layout to any local stone fabricator for a quick, accurate quote.