Built In Grills That Make Outdoor Kitchens Shine
The Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 is the best built in grill for most homeowners because it combines powerful searing with even heat distribution, a large cooking area, and a lifetime warranty. Its main limitation is the premium price, which reflects its commercial grade construction.
A built in grill transforms a backyard into a true outdoor kitchen. These grills fit into an island or enclosure, offering permanent installation and a professional look.
Built in models come with higher heat output and better materials than portable grills. We looked at gas, charcoal, and hybrid options to suit different cooking styles.
The best picks, ranked
Napoleon Prestige PRO 500
The Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 features four main burners plus a rear infrared rotisserie burner and a sizzle zone side burner. Its JetFire ignition system lights every time, and the wave shaped cooking grids deliver excellent sear marks.
Pros
- Exceptional heat distribution
- Infrared rotisserie and sizzle zone included
- Durable 304 stainless steel construction
Cons
- High price point
- Requires professional installation
Lynx Sedona Series L30
The Lynx Sedona Series L30 is a 30 inch built in grill that packs big performance into a small footprint. It has two stainless steel burners that produce 25,000 BTUs, and the smoker system allows for wood chip smoking.
Pros
- Space saving design
- Smoker system integrated
- High quality materials
Cons
- Smaller cooking area
- Limited to two burners
Weber Summit S-460
The Weber Summit S-460 is a 46 inch built in gas grill with four burners and a sear zone. Its flavorizer bars and porcelain enameled cast iron cooking grates deliver consistent results. The Tuck-Away rotisserie is a nice bonus.
Pros
- Even heat distribution
- Large cooking area
- Sear zone for high heat
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Gas only, no charcoal option
Kamado Joe Big Joe III
The Kamado Joe Big Joe III is a 24 inch ceramic charcoal grill that can be built into an outdoor kitchen. It excels at low and slow smoking as well as high heat searing. The Divide and Conquer system allows for multiple cooking levels.
Pros
- Excellent temperature control
- Versatile for smoking and searing
- Huge cooking capacity
Cons
- Requires assembly and learning curve
- Very heavy
Bull Grills Outdoor Kitchen 58551
The Bull Grills 58551 is a 36 inch stainless steel built in grill with four burners and a total output of 60,000 BTUs. It offers a rotisserie kit and a temperature gauge on the lid. Owners report solid performance at a lower price than premium brands.
Pros
- Affordable for the size
- High BTU output
- Includes rotisserie
Cons
- Stainless steel is not as thick as premium models
- Some reports of uneven heating
Lynx Grills L36
The Lynx Grills L36 is a 36 inch built in gas grill with four burners producing 50,000 BTUs. It features a large cooking area and a powerful searing zone. The interior halogen lights let you grill at night.
Pros
- Spacious cooking surface
- Excellent heat retention
- Halogen lights for visibility
Cons
- Premium price
- Requires a large island space
Napoleon PRO 500
The Napoleon PRO 500 is a dual fuel built in grill that runs on natural gas or propane, and it has an optional charcoal tray for charcoal flavor. It offers the convenience of gas with the ability to smoke using charcoal.
Pros
- Flexible fuel options
- Good searing capability
- Charcoal tray adds smoky flavor
Cons
- Charcoal tray is an extra accessory
- Not as large as some other models
How to pick the right one
How they stack up
| # | Model | Main Burners | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 | 4 stainless steel | Serious home cooks who want restaurant quality searing | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Lynx Sedona Series L30 | 2 stainless steel | Compact outdoor kitchens with limited space | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Weber Summit S-460 | 4 stainless steel | Cooks who want even heat and precise control | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Kamado Joe Big Joe III | Charcoal | Charcoal enthusiasts who want versatility | 9.2 | Check price |
| 5 | Bull Grills Outdoor Kitchen 58551 | 4 stainless steel | Budget conscious buyers who still want quality | 8.8 | Check price |
| 6 | Lynx Grills L36 | 4 stainless steel | Large families or frequent entertainers | 9.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Napoleon PRO 500 | Natural gas or propane with charcoal tray | Cooks who want a hybrid of gas and charcoal | 8.7 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
What is the best built in grill?
The Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 is often considered the best due to its powerful performance, even heat, and durable construction. It is ideal for serious cooks.
How many BTUs do I need for a built in grill?
For most outdoor kitchens, a grill with 40,000 to 60,000 total BTUs is sufficient. This provides enough heat for searing and even cooking.
What is the difference between built in and freestanding grills?
Built in grills are designed to be installed into an island or enclosure. They have no legs and often have a front vent for airflow. Freestanding grills stand on their own and can be moved.
Can I install a built in grill myself?
It is possible but not recommended unless you have experience. Professional installation ensures proper clearances and gas connections, especially for natural gas models.
What size built in grill should I buy?
Measure the space in your island. A typical cutout is 30, 36, or 42 inches wide. Choose a grill that fits and provides enough cooking area for your needs.
Are charcoal built in grills worth it?
Charcoal grills like the Kamado Joe offer superior flavor and temperature control for smoking. They require more time to light and manage, but many enthusiasts prefer them.
How do I clean a built in grill?
After each use, brush the grates and wipe down the exterior. Periodically check the burners for clogs. Some models have removable drip trays. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do built in grills come with rotisserie kits?
Many models include a rotisserie kit, such as the Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 and the Bull Grills 58551. Others offer it as an optional accessory.
What is the warranty on built in grills?
Warranties vary. Premium brands like Napoleon and Lynx offer lifetime warranties on burners and cooking grids, with shorter coverage on other parts. Always check the specific warranty details.
Final word
For most outdoor kitchens, the Napoleon Prestige PRO 500 delivers the best combination of performance, durability, and features. If you prefer charcoal, choose the Kamado Joe Big Joe III for its versatility. Budget buyers will find value in the Bull Grills 58551.
