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Take Your Outdoor Cooking Experience to the Next Level With a Custom Blackstone Griddle Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular additions to backyards and patios over the past several years. Homeowners love being able to cook, dine, and entertain outdoors. One of the most versatile and convenient appliances for outdoor cooking is the Blackstone griddle. These restaurant-grade flat top griddles allow you to grill, sear, saute, and cook nearly any type of food with ease. Integrating a Blackstone griddle into a custom designed outdoor kitchen can take your cooking experience to new heights.

You'll learn important considerations like proper ventilation, clearance, and accessibility. We'll also cover tips for choosing materials, storage ideas, design layouts, and maintenance best practices. Follow along to gain the knowledge and inspiration to create your own outdoor culinary oasis.

outdoor kitchen with blackstone griddle

Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen

The first step in any outdoor kitchen project is planning out the space. You'll want to think about the layout, traffic flow, and where you'll place the Blackstone griddle for maximum functionality.

Space Planning

Take measurements of the patio, deck, or yard space you want to use for the outdoor kitchen. Map out a rough layout complete with measurements to get a feel for the size and shape you'll be working with. Be sure to plan for enough room around the grill for safe clearance and accessibility. Consider the traffic flow - will people need to walk behind or around the grill to access other parts of the yard? Planning these details in advance will ensure your outdoor kitchen is placed in the most optimal spot.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial when installing a Blackstone griddle in an outdoor kitchen setup. The grill releases a lot of heat and smoke, so you need ways for the hot air to escape. Cutting vents or screens into the sides and back of the grill cabinet will allow airflow and prevent grease and smoke from building up in the enclosed space.

Propane Tank Access

Since Blackstone griddles require an external propane tank, you need to incorporate easy access to the tank in your outdoor kitchen design. Allow space for the tank to be connected and detached on either the side or back of the grill cabinet. Avoid positioning the tank in a spot that will be obstructed by other features of your outdoor kitchen.

Prep Space

It's helpful to leave room for food prep and serving next to the Blackstone grill. The counters and surfaces around the grill should be non-combustible materials in case of accidental contact from grease splatter or burn overflow. You can integrate features like a sink, cutting boards, condiment trays, and storage into the prep space for grilling convenience.

Constructing the Grill Cabinet

Once your outdoor kitchen is mapped out, it's time to build the cabinetry that will house the Blackstone grill. This sturdy cabinet framing is what mounts and stabilizes the grill in place.

Cabinet Materials

Use weather-resistant, non-combustible materials like stone and steel when constructing the grill cabinet and other surfaces. This will prevent any potential fire hazards. The materials also need to be durable enough to withstand outdoor elements like rain, sun exposure, temperature shifts, and years of use.

Allowing Clearances

Be sure to follow the manufacturer recommended clearances when installing a Blackstone griddle into cabinetry. This ensures there is adequate ventilation and space for the lid to open fully. Generally 12 inches on all sides is sufficient clearance.

Mounting the Grill

Carefully mount the Blackstone griddle into the cabinet framework using secure fasteners and supports. This provides stability and prevents the heavy grill from tipping or shifting during use. You may need to take some precautions if installing a portable model versus a built-in unit.

Ventilation Integration

Cut vents or screens into the cabinet sides and back as planned for proper airflow. The vents should align with the existing vents on the Blackstone grill itself. Position the vents where smoke and heat will easily be whisked away.

Additional Features

Once your Blackstone griddle is installed, it's time to deck out the surrounding space. Here are some exciting extras to incorporate into your outdoor kitchen.

Lighting

Proper lighting extends grilling time into the evening. Position overhead spotlights to brightly illuminate the cooking surface. Softer string lighting creates ambiance. LED task lighting lets you see ingredients and prep clearly.

Storage

No outdoor kitchen is complete without ample storage. Build and install cabinets to organize grilling tools, seasonings, paper towels, utensils, and backup propane tanks. Install shelves or hutches for easy access to frequently used items.

Countertops

Additional non-combustible countertop space flanking the griddle provides room for prep, plating, and serving food. Granite, concrete, and stone are attractive, durable options.

Sink

An outdoor kitchen sink adds functionality for cleanup, washing produce, and filling pots. Look for units made specifically for outdoor use with freeze-proof plumbing.

Seating

Seating facilitates socializing around the grill. Pull up barstools to the prep counters for casual dining. Position a conversation set or sofa opposite the cooking area to admire the grill master in action.

Maintaining Your Griddle Outdoor Kitchen

A built-in Blackstone griddle requires regular upkeep to stay in top cooking condition and prevent any damage to your outdoor kitchen. Here are some tips for maintenance.

Cleaning the Griddle

Remove and wash grease traps after each use to prevent drips and buildup. Clean the cooking surface with hot soapy water and a non-abrasive scrub pad. Thoroughly rinse and dry completely. Season occasionally with cooking oil to maintain the patina.

Preventing Rust

Use weather-resistant finishes like paint or epoxy on the outdoor kitchen cabinetry to avoid rust damage. Wipe down surfaces and keep dry. Cover the griddle with a protective lid when not in use. Periodically inspect for any rust spots and re-coat or replace damaged parts immediately.

Overall Wear and Tear

Inspect all aspects of your outdoor cooking station routinely - cabinets, countertops, hardware, plumbing, lighting, etc. Look for damage, loose parts, wear, and broken items needing replacement. Eventually the griddle may need to be replaced depending on usage frequency.

Creating a custom designed outdoor kitchen with an integrated Blackstone griddle takes backyard cooking to spectacular new heights. With proper planning and construction, you can have the ultimate outdoor entertaining space complete with convenience, functionality, and grilling power. Use the tips in this guide to build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams and take your cooking experience to the next level.