So you’ve decided to start on an outdoor kitchen project, complete with a built in barbecue.
It’s an exciting time… And there’s a lot to look forward to.
Actually, let’s visualize for a moment.
You’re having the first cookout at your new BBQ station… Friends and family are enjoying a drink… The sun is shining… And fresh burgers are sizzling on the grill.
Speaking of the grill… Do you have one in mind?
There are tons of decisions to make when planning an outdoor kitchen… And the built in grill you choose is of the utmost importance.
After all, it’ll be the centerpiece of your new kitchen.
But with such a wide variety to choose from… It’s difficult to know where to start.
That’s why in this buying guide, we’ll give you all the info you need to help you choose the right type of built in grill.
Aside from being an outdoor kitchen manufacturer… We’ve partnered with one of the best built-in grill brand out there, Coyote Outdoor Living.
Beyond knowing Coyote’s product line inside and out… We’ve also picked up a thing or two about how to approach buying a built-in grill.
So let’s get started.
Quick Links:
- Backyard Built-in Grill Classes & Budget Considerations
- How Important is Built-in Barbecue Grill Size?
- Outdoor Built-in BBQ Fuel Types: 3 Options to Think About
- Bling Out Your Drop in Gas Grill: 6 Must-Have Accessories
- The Top 6 Best Outdoor Built in Grills of 2024
- Our Favorite Built-in Barbecue Brand
- What’s Next? Going Beyond Your Built-in Barbeque Grill
A Quick Note on Grill Class & Prices
As you might expect… The world of BBQ built in grills is huge, and only continues to expand.
So you might find yourself feeling at a loss on where to start.
What’s one of the easiest ways to narrow down your selection? Consider your budget for an outdoor built in grill.
And it all comes down to a quick explanation on grill classes.
Economy, Premium, and Luxury Built-In Grills
Although it’s not written anywhere and there are no hard and fast rules… As you peruse for your dream built-in grill, you ultimately have three different grill classes to choose from.
Economy, premium, and luxury.
economy grills
Economy grills can be found at your local big box store. Think places like Lowes, Costco, or Home Depot.
This category caps out at around $1,500 for price, which makes them appealing from a budgetary standpoint.
At the same time… These grills are made with lower quality materials (like 430 stainless steel) to bring the cost down.
And unfortunately, the majority of the time, economy grills are not designed to be built into an outdoor kitchen. So no matter how enticing the price may be… Stay away from economy grills for a grill island.
premium built-in grills
Premium built-in grills are the next step up. And to be frank, most homeowners end up purchasing a grill in this category for their outdoor kitchen.
You’ll end up paying around $1,500 – $3,000 for a grill in this class… Give or take a few cents.
Here, you can expect durable materials like rust and corrosion resistant 304 stainless steel, a lifetime warranty, better features… And these built-in grills are truly designed for an outdoor kitchen format.
Finally, there’s the luxury class.
luxury grills
Luxury grills will start at around $3,000, but often cost far more than this. (The sky’s the limit!)
This class offers the same high quality materials, lifetime warranties, and features that you can expect from a premium built-in grill. So what’s the difference?
Luxury grills are all about status. Designs are more exotic, features are over-the-top, and you get a high-status brand name to show for it.
Finding the Best Built-in Grill for Your Budget
When it comes to your outdoor kitchen grill… At some level, it’s important to silence the deep-seated desire to always seek a good deal.
Are there good deals on great quality built in grills? Of course.
But it’s not the norm… And this isn’t the kind of purchase where you want to seek a good deal above anything else.
To us, buying a built-in grill should be looked at as a long term investment.
It’s going to be the keystone of your outdoor kitchen… And an appliance you’ll want to use regularly for years, without issues or hassles.
So in order to keep entertaining and grilling at your new outdoor kitchen frustration-free… Be prepared to shell out a bit extra for a grill that’s truly going to last. (And comes with a lifetime warranty.)
Pricing aside, that’s just one area to consider for your built-in grill!
the perfect home for your built-in grill
WITH BUILT IN OUTDOOR GRILLS, SIZE MATTERS
Size plays a big role when choosing a built in grill.
But how do you determine what size is right for your outdoor cooking needs?
Well… When planning an outdoor kitchen, you’re most likely preparing to host more cookouts.
Which usually means you’ll need a bigger grill.
To best gauge exactly how large your built in grill should be…
Think about what you’ll be cooking, how many you’ll be cooking for most often, and how large your BBQ parties could end up being.
To give you a better idea of which size is right… You should typically allot about 100 square inches of cooking surface for each person you’ll be cooking for.
Still in doubt? We’d suggest sizing up.
While it never hurts to have too much cooking space… It’s painful to not have enough.
But in addition to your grill’s size and cooking space… It’s also important to consider your cooking style.
So, let’s talk about what type of built in grill will best suit your needs.
BUILT IN GRILL TYPES
Is convenience more important than flavor?
Or, is max cooking versatility what you’re after?
To help determine where your preferences lie… Let’s discuss the different built in grill fuel types.
BUILT IN GAS GRILLS
For the sake of simplicity, we’re lumping built in natural gas grills and built in propane grills into the same category.
Both of these grills have the same qualities… The only difference is whether you prefer natural gas or liquid propane for the fuel source.
That aside, gas built in grills are the kings of convenience. For those looking for a plug and play option… A gas grill head is the perfect choice.
You turn the knob, let the grill heat up, and get to grilling. Simple as that.
As for cooking style, built in gas grills excel in searing steaks or other high heat grilling.
Just know that what you gain in convenience… You’ll sacrifice in flavor.
And if flavor rules supreme for you, you may lean toward charcoal.
BUILT IN CHARCOAL GRILLS
If you’re big into savory, smoky, and charred fare… A charcoal drop-in grill may be best for you!
With a charcoal grill… Flavors are dialed up to 11.
But inversely to built in gas grills… That superior smoke flavor comes at the cost of convenience.
You’ll need to manually light your charcoal, which isn’t always a sure start. And when it does finally start… It can take 20-30 minutes or more before you can begin cooking.
Charcoal is also a bit messier to work with. Unlike gas, built-in charcoal grills leave you with a pile of ash to clean out after every cook.
But if flavor is your primary objective… These inconveniences will be easy to overlook.
How about something with a little more middle ground?
BUILT IN PELLET GRILLS
If you’re not finding yourself on “team flavor” or “team convenience”… The versatility and functionality of a pellet grill may speak to you.
For many, wood pellet grills offer the ideal balance between flavor and convenience.
Wood pellets infuse a lovely, mild smoke flavor to your dishes… While also remaining easy to operate.
Built-in pellet grills will come equipped with a digital control panel. So in just a few button clicks… You can set your temperature and let it take care of the rest.
The only downside to these built in BBQ grills is the maintenance and accessibility. Digital components can be more tricky to repair… And these grills require access to electricity in order to function.
If you’re starting to settle in on your ideal fuel type… It’s time to consider the accessories you’d like.
realize the full potential of your built-in grill
Selecting the Best Accessories for your Built-In Gas BBQ Grill
When it comes to built-in grill accessories… The world is your oyster.
And since there are so many options out there, we’re just going to briefly touch upon a few of the most popular. (All of the following are specifically designed for built-in gas grills.)
drop-in griddles
These are a simple insert to convert a section of your gas grill into a flat top! Remove one of your cooking grates, drop this tray in… And now you have access to a griddle for bacon, pancakes, or anything else you can think of.
Drop-in charcoal trays
Charcoal trays operate in a similar manner to griddle trays. Remove a section of grill grates, and drop this piece inside. The tray itself will hold coals, so you can convert part of your gas grill into a charcoal grill. Put your cooking grates back on top, and enjoy your smoky, charcoal-kissed creations!
sear burners
Also sometimes known as infrared burners, can replace one of the standard burners in your grill. As you might expect, these burners excel at searing meat, pumping out plenty of BTUs for high-heat cooking. If a great steak is one of your favorite things to grill… A sear burner might be for you.
Rotisserie Kits
are classic gas grill add-ons. Whole chicken, prime rib, and leg of lamb are all infinitely more delicious when cooked on a rotisserie kit. And to ensure you get the most out of this accessory… Make sure your grill also contains a rear rotisserie burner for an even cook.
smoker boxes
Small, but mighty in the world of built-in grill accessories. If you don’t want to deal with even a charcoal tray… Add some soaked wood chips to this box, toss it into your grill, and infuse some wonderful smoke flavor into your burgers.
led light knobs
These are a purely aesthetic choice… But you’ve got to admit, they look pretty stylish. Many grill manufacturers will include illuminated knobs as part of an upgraded grill package. So if you’re already going for the gusto… You may as well enhance the look of your shiny, new built-in grill.
Have your eyes set on an accessory or two?
Let’s take that excitement, and channel it into the best built-in grill brands of the year.
WHO OFFERS THE BEST BUILT IN BBQ GRILLS FOR 2024?
Today, we’ll be spotlighting a few of the top, premium built in grill brands currently available. That said, there are so many other brands out there that offer great products!
So, if you want to dig deeper on any specific types of built in grills, check out the following articles for more great options.
BLAZE BUILT IN GRILLS
Let’s get things started with Blaze.
Blaze offers a range of built in gas grills, as well as a built in charcoal grill.
All of their grill inserts are constructed with high quality, 304 stainless steel… Except for their Premium LTE gas grill, which boasts durable 316 stainless steel.
To back up quality… Blaze grills are covered under a lifetime warranty.
So, what cooking power does Blaze bring to the table?
Well, their built in charcoal grill is a straightforward option. It has an adjustable height charcoal tray for easy temp control, plus a double lined grill hood for superior heat retention!
On the other hand… Their extensive selection of built in gas grills offers up a bit more functionality.
For each of their propane or natural gas built in grill models (which span from a smaller grill at 25” to larger grills at 44”)… Expect double-lined hoods, flame tamers to prevent flare ups, heat zone separators, and BTUs between 14,000 and 18,000 per burner.
Their higher-end Premium and Professional built in gas grills also boast rear infrared searing burners, for rotisserie!
As for price, you’ll currently spend between $1,359.99 and $6,879.98 on Blaze’s built in grills
DCS BUILT IN GRILLS
Next up, let’s take a look at DCS. Unlike Blaze, this brand specializes in built-in propane gas grills or natural gas grills.
Across the board, DCS makes use of high quality 304 stainless steel construction. And just like Blaze… Each grill comes backed by a lifetime warranty.
As for your options, you’ll have access to two unique lines: the Series 7 or Series 9.
What’s the difference?
The Series 9 is the upgraded version of the Series 7. So in addition to the standard features, the Series 9 will have a couple extra bells and whistles.
Both series will have a rotisserie kit with an integrated halogen light, cast stainless steel U-shaped grates, U-shaped burners (25,000 BTUs each), and ceramic radiant rods (instead of regular flame tamers).
On top of this, Series 9 grills from DCS will include a drop in charcoal tray, spring assisted hood, illuminated knobs, and an upgraded grease trap system.
DCS also offers a couple built-in grill models with an integrated side burner. So if you want to whip up a side dish or two… It’s all in one unit.
With grill sizes ranging from 30” to a gargantuan 48”… Prices start at $2,999.00 and go all the way up to $$7,899.00 or more. No doubt, this is a luxury class grill brand!
COYOTE BUILT IN GRILLS
Coyote’s premium appliance selection includes built in gas, charcoal, and pellet grills… All of which are made with full 304 stainless steel construction!
What’s more… All Coyote appliances are backed by a lifetime warranty.
Now, let’s get into a bit more detail on each of their built in grill offerings…
Coyote has two great built in gas grills: Their C-Series and S-Series models.
These are available from 28” to 42”… So whether you have a small outdoor space or larger backyard accommodations, there’s a model to meet your needs and cooking space!
The C-Series and S-Series grills are much the same, with cast stainless infinity burners, heat control grids, a push and turn ignition system, and internal and external lighting.
With the S-Series… You’ll also get an infrared rotisserie burner, as well as ceramic briquette trays for incredible heat distribution!
For Coyote gas grills… Total BTU heat output will be between 40,000 and 90,000.
Leaning towards charcoal?
Coyote’s 36” charcoal grill includes an adjustable fuel tray… A warming rack to keep food warm… A drip tray for easy cleanup… And a knob to easily adjust airflow.
Finally… Coyote offers 28” or 36” built in pellet grills.
A digital control panel allows you to set temps between 175-600 degrees Fahrenheit on the 28”… While the 36” can get as hot as 700 degrees.
So, these grills can be used for low and slow smokes, grilling, baking, roasting, and searing!
Now, how much will a built in Coyote grill set you back?
Currently, expect to spend between $1,599.00 to $3,499.00
BULL OUTDOOR PRODUCTS BUILT IN GRILLS
Like the other brands, Bull offers a range of outdoor appliances… Including built in charcoal and gas grills!
All of Bull’s built in grill models feature durable, 304 stainless steel exterior construction… And, you’ll get a lifetime warranty on the housing.
Bull’s built in natural gas grills and propane grills are available in a range of sizes… From three to six main burners.
All of their gas grills feature double-walled hoods, BTUs between 15,000 and 17,500 per burner… And the larger models also have rear rotisserie burners.
For those who prefer charcoal… The Bull built in charcoal grill has an easy-to-use vent system for temp control, as well as a built in charcoal box.
Concerning price, Bull’s built in grills cost between $1,469.00 to $3,959.00.
SUMMERSET BUILT IN GRILLS
If you’re looking for a built in gas grill… Summerset has plenty of options!
Specifically, Summerset offers three different built in gas grill lines.
Their Sizzler series is their economy option…
But they also offer premium built in grills in their TRL and Alturi lines.
For a high quality built in gas grill… We’d suggest going with the latter options!
These are constructed with 304 stainless steel… Are backed by a lifetime warranty… Have higher BTUs (between 18,000 and 26,000 per burner)… And have rear rotisserie burners!
Summerset’s built in grills are also available in a range of different sizes, from 26” up to 44” models.
And at the time of writing, expect to spend between $1,454.00 and $6,520.00.
CAL FLAME BUILT IN GRILLS
Like many of the other brands on our list… Cal Flame offers both built in gas and charcoal grills in their G and P series. (They also offer built in convection grills!)
The G series is their more economical option… This includes a built in charcoal grill and three sizes of built in gas grill.
On the other hand, the P series is their higher end option.
This includes 4, 5, or 6 burner built in gas grills.
For Cal Flame’s P series built in gas grills, expect 304 stainless steel construction, 15,000 BTU apiece burners, grill lights, and infrared back burners.
As for the warranty, Cal Flame covers the structure of their built in grills for 10 years.
And concerning price, you’ll have to request a quote from Cal Flame to confirm how much their built in grills will cost you!
THE OVERALL BEST BUILT IN GRILL BRAND
Of the built in grill brands we discussed… They’re all fairly similar!
But if we had to pick an overall best… We’d single out Coyote.
Why?
For starters… They have the most product diversity.
They offer built in gas, charcoal, and pellet grills, while the other brands we discussed only offer one or two types of grill inserts.
And of course, the quality of Coyote’s built in grills is undeniable. Not to mention, you’ll get tons of great features for an extremely fair price!
But, these aren’t the only reasons why Coyote is our top pick.
It’s also because Coyote’s built in grills are the easiest to build into an outdoor kitchen!
THE BEST BBQ ISLAND FOR YOUR NEW BUILT IN GRILL
Getting a perfectly-fitting built in grill can be difficult…
But fortunately… RTA outdoor kitchens are specially designed to fit Coyote appliances, regardless of which built in grill model you choose.
When working with RTA, you have the comfort of knowing that your perfect outdoor kitchen design will work with the appliances and accessories of your choosing.
Of course, our pre designed Quick Ship kitchens make this process as convenient as can be…
But even if you want to get creative with a custom outdoor kitchen… It’s still simple!
Our partnership with Coyote allows you to seamlessly select premium grill products for your custom island, to best fit your space and grilling needs.
And our free online design tool makes this a breeze! In minutes, you can have a 3D rendering of your dream outdoor kitchen.
Now, planning an outdoor kitchen is no small thing. If you still have questions… Our Learning Hub likely has the answers!
Or, just reach out! We’re more than happy to help you get started.
Need Help With Your outdoor grill station?
FAQ
Short answer? Yes, absolutely! You’ll have your grill installed right into your outdoor kitchen… Which gives you the ultimate outdoor cooking experience.
Regular grills simply aren’t designed to be put into an outdoor kitchen.
Modifying your regular grill to fit in an appliance cutout can compromise its structural integrity… And will likely void its warranty.
You may also run into safety issues such as blocked vents, which can lead to explosions! It’s always better to purchase a true built-in grill instead.
For a true built-in grill that’s designed to be installed into an outdoor kitchen… Most brands will start at around $1,500 at the bare minimum. Depending on size and features you choose, you’re more likely to pay $2,000 – $3,000+ on a built-in grill.
