Our ancestors had summer kitchens, outdoor structures used in good weather to prevent overheating in the house. These days we use our gas grills for outdoor cooking, but unlike a summer kitchen the grill lacks kitchen features. This forces us to trek back and forth with food platters, beverages, dishes and condiments. We’re still preparing and cleaning up in the kitchen and it’s just not as leisurely as we planned. Enter the island grill, a complete outside meal preparation unit. Like a kitchen island, an Island Grill in Virginia Beach offers a full range of features designed to make cooking easy and convenient.

For most barbecue cooks a primary frustration is lack of counter space. It’s annoying and even dangerous to juggle tools and food around a hot grill. Island grills have a spacious area to prepare and cook your outdoor meals in safety. There’s under-counter storage for your dishes and cooking tools. Many models include refrigerators with space for food, beverages and condiments. Some versions have the option of a warming drawer which lets you barbecue early and enjoy being with your guests. Complete your outdoor cooking space with side burners or griddles to cook anything outdoors!

Now you have everything but your kitchen sink, but even that can be arranged. Beverage centers for island grills contain sinks, ice and bottle storage and even blenders. For clean up, paper towel dispensers and trash disposal drawers are very handy.

Safety may be a concern with an integral gas grill in an island constructed with flammable material. Check that the island you choose is protected from the grill’s heat with an insulated grill liner or jacket meeting National ANSI standards. Also, if you’re grilling in a covered patio, consider installing a vent hood specifically designed for outdoor use. These improve airflow and quality in your outdoor eating area.

The range of size and features for outdoor island grills is impressive. There are compact units that arrive “knocked down” in panels for ease of installation and others with multiple islands that can be configured like a true outdoor living space. The best retailers carry a full selection and will provide you with a grilling island customized to your needs.

To make your outdoor eating experiences much more leisurely and enjoyable, contact East Coast Leisure. They will offer you an Island Grill in Virginia Beach.