Planning an Outdoor Kitchen? Ask These 10 Questions First (From a BBQ Pro’s POV)

Creating your dream outdoor kitchen is an exciting step for any BBQ lover. Whether you're envisioning a simple grill station or a full-blown backyard culinary oasis, asking the right questions before you start building can save you time, money, and plenty of stress.

As a BBQ pro, I’ve seen it all—from sizzling success stories to setups that fell flat because of overlooked details.

So before you fire up your design plans, here are 10 essential questions to ask yourself:

1. What Type of Grill Best Suits Your Cooking Style? Are you team charcoal, gas, pellet, or hybrid? Your grill is the heart of your outdoor kitchen, so choose one that fits how you like to cook. Charcoal grills offer that smoky flavor purists love, gas grills bring speed and convenience, and pellet grills strike a balance between flavor and ease.

2. How Much Prep Space Do You Really Need? Many DIYers underestimate how much counter space is needed for prepping, plating, and serving. If you regularly entertain or cook multiple courses, ample prep space will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

3. What Kind of Storage Should You Include? Think about storing essentials like tongs, seasonings, fuel, and cleaning tools. Weatherproof cabinets and drawers help keep your gear clean, organized, and close at hand. Bonus points for dedicated spice racks and utensil drawers!

4. How Will You Keep Your Outdoor Kitchen Safe? Safety first! Keep hot appliances away from combustible materials and ensure there's proper ventilation, especially if you're using gas or charcoal. Install fire-resistant surfaces and consider adding a small fire extinguisher nearby.

5. Is Your Layout Functional and Flow-Friendly? Just like your indoor kitchen, the layout matters. Follow the "kitchen triangle" rule by spacing your grill, sink, and fridge for easy movement. If you have guests over often, keep the cooking and social areas slightly separate to avoid crowding.

6. Do You Need a Sink or Fridge (or Both)? Adding a sink for washing hands and produce or a fridge for cold drinks and marinated meats can massively enhance your outdoor kitchen. Just make sure you're set up for plumbing and electricity before committing.

7. What’s Your Plan for Weather Protection? Will your kitchen be under a pergola, pavilion, or exposed to the elements? Consider a roof or awning for protection from rain and sun. Using weather-resistant materials (like stainless steel and stone) will keep your space looking sharp year-round.

8. Are You Including Lighting and Tech Features? Good lighting is crucial if you'll be grilling after dark. Task lighting over prep areas and ambient lighting for dining zones create both safety and vibe. Want to go all out? Consider Bluetooth speakers, USB charging ports, or even a mounted TV.

9. What’s Your Budget—and Where Should You Splurge or Save? Budgets can balloon quickly. Splurge on your main cooking appliances and weather-resistant materials. Save with DIY-friendly upgrades like modular cabinets or cost-effective countertops.

10. Are You Building for Yourself or for Entertaining? Your outdoor kitchen should reflect how you actually use it. If it’s just you and your spouse grilling on weekends, you might not need a full bar and lounge area. But if your backyard is party central, plan for seating, shade, and extra serving space.

Final Thoughts An outdoor kitchen is an investment—not just in your home, but in your lifestyle. Asking the right questions up front helps you design a space that’s functional, stylish, and perfect for hosting those epic BBQ sessions. Whether you’re building it yourself or hiring a contractor, keep this checklist handy and make every decision count.

Got questions or looking for the best gear to build your dream BBQ kitchen? Check out our latest BBQ equipment guides and tips at Mathews BBQ Supply.