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As with many home improvement and enhancement projects, when you spend a little more, you get a little more. We chose this L-shaped outdoor kitchen from RTA Outdoor Living as the best all-inclusive outdoor kitchen kit.
It has everything you need to assemble and start cooking from the get-go. Besides a 36-inch outdoor grill, sink, fridge and under-counter storage, this kit comes with finished surfaces—no need to worry about adding tile, granite or other materials. Yes, you’ll spend big, but you’ll have a complete outdoor kitchen that adds value to your home.
- Basic grill islands: These outdoor kits typically include a built-in grill and some counter space for food preparation. Ideal for small spaces, they are a simple budget-friendly choice.
- Modular outdoor kitchens: Modular kits are versatile and customizable, allowing you to add components like cabinets, drawers, sinks and refrigerators to create a more functional outdoor kitchen.
- Prefabricated kitchen islands: These kits come with pre-built island structures that include space for a grill, countertops and sometimes a sink or refrigerator. They are easy to install and offer a complete outdoor kitchen solution.
- Customizable outdoor kitchen kits: Offering the highest level of personalization, these kits allow you to design an outdoor kitchen that perfectly fits your needs and space. However, this level of customization often comes with a higher price tag and requires more planning and design work.
- Compact outdoor kitchen kits: This space-efficient setup includes all the necessary kitchen features in a compact footprint. They are perfect for those with limited space, but may not be suitable for larger gatherings.
- DIY outdoor kitchen kits: These kits come with all the components and instructions for building an outdoor kitchen from scratch. “DIYers can avoid extra service fees by completing the project themselves,” says Reeder.
What to Consider When Buying Outdoor Kitchen Kits
When buying outdoor kitchen kits, the first thing you should do is determine how you plan to use the space, says Michael Reeder, Brand President of Archadeck Outdoor Living, a company specializing in deck and patio design and installation. “Some homeowners want an entertainment space for two to six people, so they opt for a grill, countertop and a smaller portable refrigerator,” he notes. Additional features like a wine cooler and a full-size fridge can be added for those seeking a more expansive workspace to accommodate four or more guests. “Appliances and other enhancements such as drawers can drive up costs,” he adds, so understanding your usage needs is crucial.
Knowing how you want to use the space allows you to figure out the best configuration for your needs. Next, measure your outdoor space carefully to ensure the kit you choose fits comfortably and allows for easy movement and functionality. Look for kits made from durable materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. Stainless steel, stone and weather-resistant wood are good options.
Be aware of any local regulations or restrictions regarding outdoor kitchens. “Anytime there is sewer, water, electric or gas, a simple permit and inspection is required,” says Gregg Cantor, president and CEO of Murray Lampert Design. He advises checking with local officials for permit requirements before you start your build. If you’re a member of a homeowners association (HOA), keep in mind there may be additional restrictions on outdoor kitchens.
Factor in installation costs when determining your budget. “Homeowners may find that it is more cost-effective to build their own outdoor kitchen, rather than hire a contractor,” says Reeder. A full outdoor kitchen costs between $1,200 to $2,500 per linear foot to install, excluding appliances, he reveals. “Costs can vary based on several factors, such as framing materials (concrete block or aluminum framing), type of veneer (siding, faux or real stone), utilities (gas for the grill, water for the sink/refrigerator) and countertops (granite, concrete, etc.).”
Why You Should Trust Us
I’m a national award-winning writer and journalist who specializes in outdoor trends, interior design, home decor and gardening. As an Associate Shopping Editor at Family Handyman, I’m well-versed in researching products and recommending the best designs to suit various needs.
For this article, we also consulted Michael Reeder, the Brand President of Archadeck Outdoor Living, a company specializing in deck and patio design and installation. Reeder worked in the hospitality business with Hyatt Hotels for 15 years before beginning his career as an Archadeck franchisee in Columbus, Ohio.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Kitchen Kits
When selecting the best outdoor kitchen kits, we started by researching a wide range of options available on the market. We considered various factors such as size, configuration, materials and added features to ensure that each kit offers a comprehensive solution for outdoor cooking and dining needs. We also assessed ease of installation and maintenance requirements to find user-friendly options for different skill levels.
Next, we reviewed customer feedback and user reviews to gauge real-world satisfaction and performance. We then consulted with experts in outdoor living and design to gain insights into what makes a high-quality outdoor kitchen kit. Through this thorough process, we were able to identify the best outdoor kitchen kits that excel in durability, functionality and value for money.
