Want to spend more time outdoors this summer?
If so, you may be considering an outdoor kitchen.
This will certainly encourage you to get outside more!
And with outdoor kitchen kits… It’s now easier than ever to get a backyard grill station up and running.
But before you start planning, there’s still much to know.
In this article, we’ll provide you with all the necessary info on outdoor kitchen kits… From our perspective as a bona-fide outdoor kitchen kit manufacturer.
Let’s dive in!
Types of Outdoor Kitchen Kits
There are four types of outdoor kitchen kits available to choose from… Modular cabinets, prefab kits, ready to finish kits, and ready to assemble kits.
Let’s begin with a brief overview of each one… Along with a key advantage and disadvantage of each.
1. Prefab Outdoor Kitchen Kits
Prefab kitchen kits are off-the-rack BBQ islands.
These outdoor kitchens feature a completed metal frame, already finished for you (often with a masonry or stucco veneer).
Appliance cutouts will also already be accounted for.
Most of the time, prefab kitchens will arrive at your home fully assembled. Though, certain prefab kits do require minimal assembly (you may have to drop in appliances or place a countertop).
So, prefab outdoor BBQ kits certainly sounds convenient!
But before you make any decisions, let’s cover some of the products advantages and disadvantages.
Pro: Prefab Outdoor Kitchen Sets are a Simple Solution
Prefab kitchen kits are an easy solution to add a grill station to your backyard!
There’s no intensive planning required on your part. Essentially all of the work is already done for you.
You won’t have to spend time agonizing over which appliances to choose… What layout you’d prefer… Or how to finish your island.
Simply browse online for kitchen kits that pique your interest, place your order, and it’ll arrive at your doorstep, ready (or nearly ready) to start grilling!
Con: Prefab Outdoor Kitchens Can Be Low Quality
There’s a reason why prefab outdoor kitchen kits tend to be inexpensive… And that’s because quality is often far from ideal.
While this may be fine in the short-term… If you want a kitchen that’ll last for decades, prefab products won’t cut it.
Most prefab outdoor kitchens are made using the frame method.
They’ll have multiple layers of material… Including the internal metal frame, a cement board and cladding material, and the exterior finish.
This is where the issue lies.
Especially if you live in an area prone to frequent freeze/thaw cycles, the kitchen will settle over time, causing pieces of the exterior finish to fall off… And ultimately leaving the interior metal frame exposed.
And if the metal isn’t high quality (like 304 stainless steel), it’ll rust, corrode, and crumble… Which doesn’t bode well for the outdoors.
PERSONALIZE YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN KIT TO YOUR NEEDS
2. Modular Outdoor Kitchen Kits
Like prefab outdoor kitchens… Modular outdoor kitchen cabinets come fully (or almost fully) assembled for you, with little additional work required to install.
The main difference here? Modular outdoor kitchens are made of smaller, pre-built outdoor kitchen units that you simply place together in your yard to form a cohesive BBQ island.
So, what’s the main up and down when you take this route?
Pro: Modular Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets are Inexpensive
Like prefab kitchens… Modular outdoor kitchen kits are a more affordable solution for adding a grill station to your outdoor living space.
Again, total cost will be determined by quality, included appliances, and how many modules you need to create your grill station.
But to give you an idea… Even the largest modular cabinets don’t often exceed $5,000.00.
If you have a smaller budget and want a short term, cheap outdoor kitchen kit solution… Modular cabinets may be the way to go.
Now, let’s look at the flip side. What are the disadvantages of modular outdoor kitchen kits?
Con: Modular Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets Tend to be Poor Quality & Impermanent
As with prefab, most modular outdoor kitchen kits are admittedly not high quality.
They’re typically made of powder-coated aluminum or a low grade of stainless steel… Both of which will quickly rust or corrode.
Not only will this leave your kitchen looking unsightly, it will also jeopardize its structural integrity.
You may also find plastic or polymer kitchen modules. While these cabinets won’t rust or corrode, they instead run the risk of cracking or fading.
And as well as low quality materials, many modular outdoor cabinets will be backed by short warranties, which further speaks to their lack of longevity.
Truthfully, most modular outdoor kitchen cabinets simply aren’t long term solutions.
At most, you’ll get a few years of use out of one!
If you’re looking for an impermanent solution, that may work well for you!
But if not, let’s look at something a little different.
3. Ready To Finish Outdoor Kitchen Kits
Looking for a more involved DIY project? Ready to finish (or RTF) kitchen kits may pique your interest.
Like prefab kitchens, RTF outdoor BBQ kitchen kits usually feature a metal frame wrapped in cement board.
But with this method, it’s up to you to add the exterior finish (whether it be masonry, tile, stucco, or otherwise).
To give you a better idea of what to expect from an RTF kitchen, let’s take a closer look at a few pros and cons.
Pro: You Have More Aesthetic Freedom
Unlike prefab and modular outdoor kitchen kits… Ready to finish outdoor kitchens give you more flexibility for creative freedom.
You’ll have complete control over the exterior finish… Which means there’s no aesthetic limitations with this method!
You have the choice of whatever finishing material you’d like, to perfectly match your outdoor space.
Con: RTF Outdoor Kitchens Require a Higher Skill Cap & Quality is Questionable
To make things clear… It’s certainly possible to complete a RTF kitchen on your own.
That said, you may still have to vet and hire a contractor in order to finish the job.
Especially if you don’t have relevant experience… Finishing your island may be tougher than you’d expect.
And in some cases… RTF islands require a lot more than just a finish.
Depending on your RTF kitchen kit of choice, appliance cutouts may already be done for you… But this isn’t guaranteed.
If the cutouts aren’t done, you’ll be responsible for those, as well.
Point is, RTF kitchen kits may require more work than you’re willing to take on!
And if you hire a contractor to complete the job (which we’d strongly suggest doing), the total cost of your project may quickly increase.
Not to mention… RTF outdoor kitchens are made from the same frame system we mentioned in the prefab section. (Questionable quality abounds!)
4. Ready To Assemble Outdoor Kitchen Kits
Here at RTA, we offer Ready To Assemble kitchen kits.
Our complete outdoor kitchen kits come pre-finished, with appliance cutouts already factored in.
As you can infer from the name… These kitchen kits arrive in panels that require light assembly.
To better see what RTA outdoor kitchens entail, let’s take a closer look at some specific advantages and disadvantages.
Pro: Kitchen Kits that are Easy to Assemble
We want to make your outdoor kitchen experience convenient as can be… With outdoor kitchens that are straightforward and easy to assemble!
They’ll arrive at your home 95% complete… With no need for heavy equipment to transport them to your backyard.
RTA is unique because everything is provided… The panels, countertop, and appliances come in one cohesive package.
This means it’ll be just a few short hours before your kitchen is up and running… And there’s no need to hire a contractor to do the work for you. (Though if you’d prefer, we do have an extensive contractor network to do the installation for you!)
Simply bolt the panels together, slide the appliances into pre-cut openings, and place the countertop… And voila! Your kitchen is fully installed.
Pro: Durable and Long-Lasting Construction
Unlike the other kitchen kits on our list… We can confidently say that every element of RTA kitchen products are built to withstand the test of time.
Our kitchen panels are made of heavy duty high performance concrete… Which is not only rated for 100 years… It’s also backed by a limited lifetime structural warranty!
These structural panels also prevent the need for an interior frame.
There’s no risk of rust, corrosion, or delamination here.
The same is true for the countertops, as well!
We offer concrete and granite countertops… Both of which have superior durability.
No matter which you go for… You can be confident that it’ll last for decades.
And not only will the countertops and panels hold up… Your cooking appliances will, too!
We’ve partnered with Coyote Outdoor Living… A company that offers a full suite of premium-grade outdoor appliances.
Like RTA islands, all Coyote products are made to perform outdoors… Featuring 304 stainless steel construction, which’ll hold up to rust and corrosion, rain or shine.
For even more peace of mind, all Coyote appliances are also backed by a lifetime warranty!
Con: May Be a Larger Investment Up Front
Now, onto the downsides.
RTA may be less expensive than built-from-scratch, custom outdoor kitchens… But honestly, it’ll likely have a higher initial price (around 20-30% more) than most modular, prefab, or RTF products.
As with any outdoor kitchen kit, the total price will fluctuate depending on dimensions and included appliances.
On average, RTA falls in the mid-range price point for outdoor grill islands.
But honestly, this higher price comes down to our use of better quality materials.
Your kitchen island and appliances will last a lifetime… So you’ll never have to spend more to replace it! This equates to a low ownership cost over time.
So you may spend more up front, but you’ll also get more out of your investment!
Con: There Are Appliance Limitations
Finally, as with prefab or modular outdoor kitchen kits… There will be appliance limitations with RTA kitchen kits.
Though Coyote’s appliances are high quality… The truth is, you may already have your sights set on a built-in grill (or other accessory) from a different brand.
Luckily, Coyote does offer an impressive variety to boost your outdoor cooking and entertainment endeavors.
But still, we understand that Coyote may not be your first choice!
And though we may be able to accommodate other appliance brands, it’s unfortunately not a guarantee.
Alright. We’ve covered a lot of info on the different types of outdoor kitchen kits.
Now, what’s the verdict here? What sort of backyard kitchen kit is best?
In truth, any of the solutions we’ve discussed today are viable, depending on your needs.
But if the RTA products in particular have piqued your interest… Let’s peruse a few options for your consideration.
Selections from Our G-Series Outdoor Kitchen Islands
Our G-Series BBQ grill island kits are created with your convenience in mind.
These pre-designed island kits are a compilation of our “best hits”, if you will. We’ve taken our best-selling outdoor kitchen designs… And made them available for online purchase.
Just order a design you prefer… We’ll ship it to your door… And within a couple hours, you’ll be setup to grill for a lifetime.
That said, let’s find your ideal design.
Simple & Clean Outdoor Grill Kit
Our standard G6 grill island is an absolute delight for simple grillers.
This 6’ island is pictured here in our stacked stone graphite finish… But if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, we have a total of 8 premium finishes to choose from!
Equipped with a 34” gas grill allowing you to churn out burgers for small to medium sized gatherings… This minimalistic island is ideal for your everyday cookout.
There’s also a set of 31” double access doors right underneath the grill… Allowing for ample access to the interior of your island.
You’ll also note a decent amount of counter space on the side for preparing and serving.
But perhaps you’re seeking some more robust outdoor kitchens…
Price
$7,795.00
Outdoor Grill Kitchen Kit with Side Burner
Grill outdoors in perfect harmony with our G7 Side Burner Island.
This 7’ island is pictured in our weathered wood ash finish… But there’s a lot more to this outdoor kitchen kit than mere looks.
This layout bumps up the size of the grill from 34” to 36”, giving you a little more BBQ real estate… And also adds a second cooking appliance, the dual side burner.
This double side burner is the perfect sidecar to complement the main attraction, your gas grill!
You can cook all manner of sauces and side dishes… Turning your DIY outdoor kitchen kit into a chef’s delight.
Both the grill and side burners have access doors underneath… Allowing you to gain access to the interior of your island, and store propane tanks underneath.
And to handle any trash concerns… This design also includes a simple pull out trash unit.
Price
$10,495.00
Outdoor Kitchen Grill Package with Smoker
Can’t seem to decide between a gas grill or a charcoal grill? Our G7 Asado Islands truly offer you the best of both worlds.
The 36” gas grill packs a punch for medium to large sized gatherings… While the ceramic kamado cooker is your BBQ smoking workhorse.
This Coyote Asado cooker is nestled into a proprietary sleeve… Which also has a drawer underneath to double as outdoor kitchen storage. (Keep your utensils within reach!)
You’ll also peek those double access doors underneath the grill.
With a weathered wood umber finish… This 7’ rustic BBQ outdoor kitchen kit is one to watch.
Price
$10,695.00
Pellet Grill Island Kit with Refrigerator
You could consider this small outdoor kitchen kit a “remix” of our original G6 Grill Islands.
This 7’ island swaps the gas grill for a highly-coveted pellet grill.
And we’ve got to say… The functionality of these grills are off the charts!
You can go far beyond the reaches of burgers and dogs with a pellet grill. You can smoke, sear, bake, and grill (of course)!
So if you’re a versatile chef with room for only one appliance… This built in BBQ kit is a smart choice.
This DIY kit also comes with a storage drawer underneath the grill… And an outdoor rated refrigerator to keep cool refreshments on hand.
Price
$11,695.00
L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen and Bar Kit
Looking for a design that’s a little more robust? You’ll love this L-shaped outdoor kitchen kit.
With two 7’ islands merged together… It’s double the outdoor cooking fun.
The grill island comes with that classic 36” grill, outdoor refrigerator, double access doors, and a single pull out trash bin.
So you can grill, grab cold drinks, and keep the space tidy all in one spot.
But that’s not all!
The adjacent bar island has some combo storage for stowing away your BBQ necessities… But it also doubles as a built-in dining area.
Keep guests entertained while you cook… And eat together in view of your beautiful backyard.
Price
$17,390.00
L-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet with Sink
Here’s another L-shaped outdoor kitchen kit that marches to the beat of a different drum.
Rather than leaning into a dining area at the bar… This layout includes an outdoor sink and refreshment center, rather than leaving the 7’ bar bare.
This little kitchen sink station is ideal for hand washing… But the unit also includes a small drop in cooler and integrated cutting board for serving up cocktails.
Otherwise, the 7’ grill island design is identical to the previous example. You’ve got the 36” gas grill, outdoor rated refrigerator, double access doors, and pull out trash bin.
Loving the look of these outdoor kitchen cabinet kits… But not seeing a layout that tickles your fancy?
Price
$18,290.00
Don’t See any Eye-Catching Outdoor Kitchens?
Well, we’re happy to share with you… You’re not limited to our G-Series modular outdoor kitchen kits.
In fact, most of our customers prefer more flexibility and end up ordering a custom outdoor kitchen kit!
As you can imagine… This opens up a whole new world of potential.
Instead of being limited to just a gas, pellet, or charcoal grill… You can start considering some more unique appliances. Pizza ovens, griddles, power burners, different faucets, you get the picture.
Plus, you unlock even more layout options. Is an L-shape simply not enough space? A massive U-shaped layout will pack in all the grill accessories you could have dreamed of.
And if you’re someone who likes to have matching features… You could even consider adding on a fireplace or fire pit that matches your outdoor kitchen finish!
But perhaps we’re speeding through things a little too quickly.
Step one is to start playing around with your custom outdoor kitchen kit design.
And you’re in luck… Because we have a free online design tool to help you do just that.
Happy designing, and we’ll talk soon!
Need Help With Your Plans?
FAQ
Outdoor kitchen kits can come in several forms, but broadly speaking… An outdoor kitchen kit is a package that allows you to install your own outdoor kitchen. Generally, the pieces will get shipped to your door… And you install or assemble them yourself. Prefab, ready to assemble, and modular outdoor kitchen kits are all options you may consider.
There are many great outdoor kitchen kits out there… But the best brand for you solely depends on your needs. A prefabricated outdoor kitchen kit may work if you want a completely hands-off process… Modular outdoor kitchen kits may be preferable if you want something inexpensive and impermanent… A ready to finish kit allows you to do some of the handiwork yourself… And a ready to assemble outdoor kitchen kit offers you easy assembly, long-lasting materials, and a highly personalized design process.
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.
