Alameda Cooking Table

Dimensions:

Overall:
(H) 31”
(W) 44”
(L) 96”

Welcome to your grill buying guide!

We understand that selecting the perfect barbeque grill can be overwhelming.
With a vast array of brands, features, and terminology flooding the market, navigating the buying process can seem daunting. But fear not! At Fire Goddess we're here to simplify your shopping journey and help you find the ideal barbecue grill effortlessly. Follow our easy guide below for a straightforward and enjoyable experience. Your backyard oasis awaits!

Your budget. While cheaper barbeque grills might seem tempting, they often come with a host of frustrations. From difficult assembly due to poor machining on parts to an overall lackluster appearance, opting for a lower-priced grill can lead to disappointment in the long run. So, investing a bit more upfront can save you from headaches down the road and ensure a satisfying grilling experience. A good grill generally starts at about $500 and climb up in quality and features to end up around $37,000.

Bringing your dream grill home doesn't necessarily mean emptying your wallet entirely. With various financing options available, you can spread out the payments, making the investment more manageable. Opting for a monthly payment plan shifts your focus from merely seeking a "cheap" grill to finding one that is truly affordable in the long run.

Use. Second question What are you going to use it for? Are you going to cook a few hamburgers or steaks for the two of you? Are you going to haul your barbeque to large church functions and cook for a hundred? Do you entertain frequently to medium sized groups of friends or family in your backyard? Keep that in mind as we continue this quest to find you your perfect barbeque.

Capacity. The size of your gas grill's cooking surface plays a pivotal role in determining your cooking capacity. Larger grills typically boast more main burners, ranging from 1 to 8 in our selection, thereby influencing the range of cooking techniques available to you. More burners equate to greater flexibility in multi-zone cooking. To pinpoint the right size for your needs, consider factors such as your typical grilling audience, the maximum number of guests you entertain, and how frequently you host such gatherings. Evaluate where your requirements align within our four size categories. Remember, while you can always turn off burners as needed, you can't increase your cooking surface area.

26 Inches or less width
Grills measuring 26 inches wide or less typically feature 1 to 3 burners. We recommend these compact grills for small families or those whipping up smaller batches of burgers. However, fewer burners may limit your ability to execute indirect cooking or advanced techniques effectively.

27 to 33 Inches width
Grills spanning 27 to 33 inches wide typically come equipped with 2 to 4 burners. This size range offers ample cooking space and burners to harness indirect heat effectively. Additionally, you'll find supplementary features like side burners and rotisserie burners, enhancing your cooking versatility.

34 to 42 Inches width
Grills ranging from 34 to 42 inches wide boast the ideal number of burners (3 to 6) for exploring various grilling techniques. With generous cooking space and multiple burners, you can effortlessly employ heat zones, indulge in slow roasting with indirect heat, or prepare multiple courses simultaneously. These grills are perfect for accommodating large family gatherings or backyard cookouts.

43 Inches or more width
For the ultimate in grilling prowess, consider a grill measuring 43 inches and up in width. These extra-large grills, equipped with spacious cooking areas and up to 8 burners, are tailored for avid grillers hosting sizable gatherings. Whether it's game day or a family reunion, these grills can handle it all, offering unparalleled cooking versatility with options like rotisserie cooking systems, sear burners, and ample storage space.

A Final Note on Size: Remember that a grill's feeding capacity is subjective and varies based on individual cooking preferences and styles. Choose a size that aligns with your culinary aspirations and enjoy endless grilling adventures.

Footprint. How much room do you have? Will your grill be part of a built-in outdoor kitchen? Then you need a perfectly matched built-in. Or do you have a small balcony off of your apartment? Then a smaller electric model. Need it to move around your backyard or patio? Then a freestanding grill is what you are after. To ensure that your BBQ fits, mark off the area in which you plan to use it considering local bylaws (which you can search for online) regarding spacing. Like grandpa always said, “Measure twice, buy once.” (Ok, he never said that.)

Built-in gas grills. Built-in gas grills, also known as drop-ins, grill heads, or grill inserts, are seamlessly integrated into BBQ islands within your outdoor kitchen. These grills often come with matching outdoor kitchen equipment, allowing you to create a unified look in your backyard. Serving as a natural focal point on your patio, built-in grills not only enhance your outdoor living space but can also significantly increase the value of your home.

Freestanding gas grills. Unlike built-in models, freestanding gas grills are placed on movable carts equipped with enclosed storage for fuel tanks and cooking accessories. Their mobility allows for easy rearrangement of your outdoor setup. Look for freestanding grills featuring a side burner, perfect for preparing side dishes or simmering sauces for basting.

Cooking style. Your preferred cooking style plays a crucial role in determining the type of barbecue that best suits your needs. For instance, if you enjoy the traditional smoky flavor of charcoal-grilled food and don't mind the longer preheating times and cleanup associated with charcoal or wood grills, then a charcoal barbecue might be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if convenience and quick heat-up times are priorities, a gas or electric grill might be more suitable. Similarly, if you're interested in experimenting with low-and-slow cooking techniques like smoking or barbecue competitions, you might lean towards a dedicated smoker or a set and forget grill with advanced temperature control features.

Versatility. Barbecues come in various types, such as gas, charcoal, pellet, and electric grills, each offering different levels of versatility. Some grills are designed primarily for grilling, while others may offer additional features like smoking, roasting, or even baking. The more versatile the grill, the more cooking methods it supports, allowing users to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques. For example, if someone enjoys smoking meats, they might opt for a barbecue with a built-in smoker box or a dedicated smoker attachment.

Fuel types. Natural Gas, Propane, Pellets, Charcoal, Wood & Electric

Natural Gas

Natural gas barbecues offer unique advantages and drawbacks compared to propane and other types of grills. Here are the pros and cons of natural gas barbecues:

Pros

Continuous Fuel Supply. One of the significant advantages of natural gas grills is that they are connected directly to your home's natural gas supply. This means you never have to worry about running out of fuel or scheduling propane tank refills, providing uninterrupted grilling sessions.

Cost Savings. Natural gas is typically cheaper than propane, so using a natural gas barbecue can result in cost savings over time, especially if you grill frequently. Additionally, since you're not purchasing individual propane tanks, you avoid the inconvenience of propane refills and associated costs.

Environmental Friendliness. Natural gas is a cleaner-burning fuel compared to propane or charcoal, producing fewer emissions, and reducing your carbon footprint. If environmental sustainability is important to you, a natural gas barbecue can be an eco-friendlier option for outdoor cooking.

Convenience: Like propane grills, natural gas barbecues offer instant ignition and precise temperature control, making them incredibly convenient to use. You can start grilling with the push of a button and adjust the heat levels as needed for different foods.

Permanent Installation: Since natural gas grills are connected to your home's gas line, they are typically designed for permanent installation in your outdoor kitchen or patio area. This provides a seamless and integrated grilling setup without the need for bulky propane tanks or frequent repositioning.

Cons

Limited Portability: Natural gas barbecues are not portable like propane or charcoal grills since they require a fixed gas line connection. Once installed, it's challenging to move them to different locations, limiting their versatility for outdoor events or camping trips.

Installation Requirements: Installing a natural gas barbecue requires a professional gas fitter to connect the grill to your home's natural gas supply line safely. This installation process may involve additional costs and considerations, such as ensuring proper ventilation and compliance with local building codes.

Lack of Mobility. Since natural gas grills are fixed in place, you're limited to using them in the location where they're installed. This may not be ideal if you prefer to rearrange your outdoor cooking setup frequently or if you move residences frequently.

Dependency on Gas Supply. While natural gas provides a continuous fuel supply, it also means that your grill's operation is dependent on the availability of natural gas from your utility provider. If there's a gas outage in your area, you won't be able to use your natural gas barbecue until service is restored.

Initial Cost. Natural gas grills tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to propane or charcoal grills, primarily due to installation expenses and the cost of the grill itself. However, as mentioned earlier, you may recoup these costs over time through savings on fuel and convenience.
In summary, natural gas barbecues offer the benefits of continuous fuel supply, cost savings, and environmental friendliness.

Propane

Propane barbecues, also known as gas grills, are popular among outdoor cooks for their convenience and ease of use. Here are some pros and cons of propane barbecues:

Pros

Convenience. Propane grills are incredibly convenient to use. They ignite quickly with the push of a button or turn of a knob, allowing you to start cooking almost immediately. There's no need to wait for charcoal to heat up or deal with messy ash cleanup afterward.

Temperature Control. Gas grills offer precise temperature control, allowing you to adjust the heat levels quickly and accurately. This makes it easier to cook a variety of foods to perfection, from delicate vegetables to thick steaks.

Even Heat Distribution. Propane grills typically have multiple burners, which provide even heat distribution across the cooking surface. This helps prevent hot spots and ensures that your food cooks evenly.

Clean Burning. Propane is a clean-burning fuel, producing fewer emissions than charcoal or wood. This means there's less smoke and fewer flare-ups, resulting in a cleaner grilling experience and less chance of over-smoking your food.

Low Maintenance. Gas grills require minimal maintenance compared to charcoal or pellet grills. There's no ash to clean up, and the burners and cooking grates are relatively easy to keep clean with regular brushing.

Cons

Dependency on Propane. Propane grills rely on propane tanks to fuel them, which means you'll need to keep spare tanks on hand or refill them regularly. Running out of propane in the middle of a cookout can be inconvenient, so it's essential to monitor your propane levels.

Flavor. While propane grills produce deliciously grilled food, some barbecue purists argue that they lack the smoky flavor that charcoal or wood-fired grills impart. However, you can enhance the flavor by using smoker boxes or adding wood chips to your propane grill.

Portability. While some propane grills are designed for portability, such as tabletop models or portable carts with wheels, larger propane grills can be bulky and challenging to transport. They're not as convenient for camping trips or tailgating as smaller, more portable grills.

Initial Cost. High-quality propane grills can be expensive, especially models with advanced features like infrared burners or stainless-steel construction. However, there are also more affordable options available for budget-conscious consumers.

Limited Cooking Styles. While gas grills are versatile and can be used for various cooking methods, such as grilling, roasting, and even smoking with the addition of smoker boxes or accessories, they may not offer the same level of versatility as pellet grills or charcoal smokers, which are specifically designed for smoking.

In summary, propane barbecues offer unparalleled convenience, precise temperature control, and easy cleanup, making them an excellent choice for many outdoor cooks.

Pellets

Pellet barbecues, also known as pellet grills or pellet smokers, have gained popularity among barbecue enthusiasts due to their unique features and convenience. Here are some pros and cons of pellet barbecues:

Pros

Versatility. Pellet barbecues can grill, smoke, roast, bake, and even barbecue. They offer a wide range of cooking options, allowing you to experiment with various recipes and cooking techniques.

Consistent Temperature Control. One of the significant advantages of pellet grills is their ability to maintain consistent temperatures. They typically have digital controllers that allow you to set the desired temperature precisely, resulting in more consistent and predictable cooking results.
Easy to Use. Pellet barbecues are relatively easy to use, especially for beginners. They often feature electronic ignition systems and user-friendly controls, making them accessible to anyone, regardless of their grilling experience.

Clean-Burning Fuel. Pellets are made from compressed sawdust or wood chips, making them a cleaner-burning fuel compared to charcoal or propane. This can result in fewer flare-ups and less smoke, allowing for a more enjoyable cooking experience.

Flavorful Results. Pellets impart a rich, smoky flavor to food, similar to that of traditional wood-fired barbecue. Depending on the type of wood pellets used, you can achieve different flavor profiles to enhance the taste of your dishes.

Cons

Dependency on Electricity. Pellet barbecues require electricity to power the auger, which feeds pellets into the firepot, as well as the digital control system. If you experience a power outage, you may not be able to use your pellet grill unless you have a backup power source.

Limited Portability. Pellet grills are typically larger and heavier than other types of grills, making them less portable. They are often designed for backyard use rather than for tailgating or camping.

Pellet Availability. While pellets are readily available in many areas, they may not be as accessible as charcoal or propane, especially in rural or remote locations. It's essential to ensure a steady supply of pellets if you plan to use your pellet grill frequently.

Maintenance. Pellet grills require regular maintenance to keep them functioning correctly. This includes cleaning the grates, grease management system, and ash removal. Additionally, you may need to inspect and replace components like the igniter, auger, and temperature probes over time.

Initial Cost. Pellet grills tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to charcoal or gas grills. However, many users find that the convenience, versatility, and flavor they offer justify the investment over time.

Overall, pellet barbecues are an excellent option for those who value convenience, versatility, and consistent results.

Charcoal

Charcoal barbecues, also known as charcoal grills, are beloved by many outdoor cooking enthusiasts for their ability to impart a unique smoky flavor to food and their versatility. Here are the pros and cons of charcoal barbecues:

Pros

Flavor. Charcoal grills are prized for the distinct smoky flavor they impart to food. The charcoal's combustion process produces aromatic smoke, enhancing the taste of grilled meats, vegetables, and other foods. This flavor is difficult to replicate with other types of grills.

High Heat. Charcoal grills can reach higher temperatures than gas or electric grills, making them ideal for searing steaks, burgers, and other meats to achieve a flavorful crust while keeping the interior juicy and tender.

Versatility. Charcoal grills are versatile and can be used for various cooking methods, including direct grilling, indirect grilling, smoking, and even baking. With proper airflow control and the use of accessories like smoker boxes and rotisserie attachments, you can cook a wide range of dishes on a charcoal grill.

Portability. Many charcoal grills are portable and lightweight, making them suitable for outdoor gatherings, camping trips, tailgating, and picnics. You can easily pack them into a car and take them wherever you go, providing flexibility for outdoor cooking adventures.

Affordability. Charcoal grills are often more affordable than gas or pellet grills, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. Even high-quality charcoal grills are typically less expensive than their gas counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.

Cons

Longer Preheating Time. Charcoal grills require more time to preheat compared to gas or electric grills. It takes time for the charcoal to heat up and reach the desired cooking temperature, which can delay the start of your grilling session.

Temperature Control. While charcoal grills can achieve high temperatures, controlling the heat can be challenging, especially for inexperienced users. Adjusting the airflow and positioning the charcoal correctly are essential for maintaining consistent temperatures and preventing flare-ups.

Cleanup. Charcoal grills produce ash and debris that require cleanup after each use. Removing ashes from the grill's bottom tray and disposing of them properly can be messy and time-consuming, adding to the post-cooking cleanup process.

Dependency on Charcoal. Charcoal grills rely on charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel, which means you'll need to keep an adequate supply on hand for your grilling sessions. Running out of charcoal in the middle of cooking can disrupt your meal preparation and require additional time to refuel.

Safety Concerns. Charcoal grills pose certain safety risks, such as the potential for flare-ups, hot spots, and accidental burns. It's essential to use caution when lighting charcoal and operating the grill, especially in windy conditions or near flammable materials.

In summary, charcoal barbecues offer unparalleled flavor, versatility, and affordability. See also Kamado grills and hibachis two specialized types of charcoal grills.

Wood

Wood fired grills are renowned for their unique design and cooking style, particularly for grilling large cuts of meat over an open flame. Here are the pros and cons of wood grills:

Pros

Traditional Cooking Method. Wood grills offer a traditional cooking experience that dates back centuries. They typically feature a wood or charcoal fire pit sometimes with an adjustable grate mechanism that allows you to raise or lower the cooking surface to control the heat intensity.

Intense Heat. Wood grills produce intense, radiant heat from the wood or charcoal fire, which is ideal for searing and caramelizing the exterior of meats while keeping the interior juicy and tender. This high-temperature cooking method results in deliciously charred and flavorful dishes.

Customizable Cooking Heights. One of the distinctive features of Santa Maria grills is their adjustable grate mechanism, which allows you to raise or lower the cooking surface to achieve different cooking temperatures. This flexibility enables you to control the cooking process more precisely and accommodate various cuts of meat and cooking styles.

Flavorful Smoke. Cooking over an open flame on a wood grill imparts a rich, smoky flavor to food that is highly prized by barbecue enthusiasts. The natural wood or charcoal smoke enhances the taste and aroma of grilled meats, vegetables, and other dishes, creating an authentic outdoor cooking experience.

Large Cooking Surface. Wood grills typically have a large cooking surface, making them suitable for grilling multiple cuts of meat simultaneously or accommodating large gatherings and parties. This makes them an excellent choice for outdoor entertaining and cooking for a crowd.

Cons

Requires Skill and Experience. Cooking on a wood grill requires skill and experience to master the art of controlling the fire, adjusting the cooking height, and achieving the desired results. It may take some practice to become proficient in using this type of grill effectively.

Limited Versatility. While wood grills excel at grilling large cuts of meat over an open flame, they may not be as versatile as other types of grills for cooking different types of dishes or using alternative cooking methods like smoking or baking.

Manual Operation. Wood grills typically require manual operation to adjust the cooking height and control the fire intensity. This may involve using a crank or lever mechanism to raise or lower the grate, as well as adding wood or charcoal to maintain the fire.

Cleanup and Maintenance. Like other types of outdoor grills, wood grills require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them in good condition. This includes removing ashes, scrubbing the grates, and inspecting the grill components for wear and tear.

Safety Considerations. Cooking over an open flame on a wood grill poses certain safety risks, including the potential for flare-ups, hot spots, and accidental burns. It's essential to exercise caution and follow proper safety precautions when using this type of grill.

In summary, wood grills offer a traditional and authentic outdoor cooking experience with intense heat, customizable cooking heights, and flavorful smoke. While they require skill and experience to use effectively and may have limited versatility compared to other types of grills, they are prized by barbecue enthusiasts for their unique design and cooking style.

Electric

Electric barbecue grills are convenient and easy to use, but they also have their drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros

Convenience. Electric grills are incredibly convenient to use. They heat up quickly with the flip of a switch or the push of a button, eliminating the need for charcoal or propane. This makes them ideal for quick and easy grilling sessions, especially in urban environments where open flames may not be permitted.

Indoor Use. Electric grills can be used indoors, making them suitable for apartments, condos, and other residences where outdoor grilling may not be feasible. They produce minimal smoke and odors, allowing you to enjoy grilled food year-round regardless of the weather.

Even Heating. Electric grills provide consistent and even heating across the cooking surface, resulting in evenly cooked food without hot spots or flare-ups. This makes it easier to achieve consistent cooking results, especially for novice grillers.

Ease of Cleanup. Electric grills are relatively easy to clean compared to charcoal or gas grills. They don't produce ashes or require the disposal of charcoal briquettes, and many models feature removable cooking grates and drip trays that can be easily cleaned in the sink or dishwasher.

Safety. Electric grills are generally safer to use than charcoal or gas grills, as they don't produce open flames or combustible gases. This reduces the risk of flare-ups, burns, and fire hazards, making electric grills suitable for use in indoor and outdoor settings with strict safety regulations.

Cons

Limited Portability. Electric grills rely on an electrical outlet for power, which limits their portability compared to charcoal or propane grills. They are typically designed for use in fixed locations, such as patios, balconies, or countertops, and may not be suitable for camping trips or tailgating.

Dependency on Electricity. Electric grills require access to a power source to operate, which may not be available in all outdoor settings. If you experience a power outage or don't have access to an electrical outlet, you won't be able to use your electric grill until power is restored or you find an alternative power source.

Limited Temperature Range. Electric grills may have a limited temperature range compared to charcoal or gas grills, which can affect their versatility for certain cooking methods like high-heat searing or low-and-slow smoking. However, many electric grills offer adjustable temperature controls to accommodate a variety of cooking styles.

Flavor. While electric grills can produce deliciously grilled food, some barbecue purists argue that they lack the smoky flavor that charcoal or wood-fired grills impart. However, you can enhance the flavor by using wood chips or smoker boxes to add smoky aromas to your grilled dishes.

Cooking Surface Size. Electric grills may have smaller cooking surfaces compared to larger charcoal or gas grills, limiting the amount of food you can grill at once. This can be a drawback when cooking for a large group or preparing multiple dishes simultaneously.

In summary, electric barbecue grills offer convenience, safety, and ease of use. A popular subcategory of electric barbecues is infrared barbeques which are worth checking out.

This concludes our barbeque buying guide. Research is key, be happy with your purchase. Keep to a routine cleaning and care regimen which can keep your gas grill performing at its best for anywhere from 5 to 15 years. By taking good care of your grill, you can enjoy delicious barbecues and outdoor cooking for many more years to come. If you have more questions please either check out our extensive FAQs, chat through our popup, send us a question via out contact us form or call us during business hours. (403.536.1778)

Be sure to explore our diverse range of barbecues to discover the ideal complement for your outdoor area. We sincerely appreciate your consideration in entrusting us as your ally in crafting exceptional culinary experiences and ambiance in your outdoor haven.

Thank you for considering us as your go-to destination for all your barbecue needs. We're dedicated to helping you find the perfect grill to elevate your outdoor gatherings to new heights of deliciousness and enjoyment. Happy grilling!

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