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The difference between a built-in and regular grill is installation and design. A built-in grill is integrated into an outdoor kitchen or structure, often within a countertop or island. It is a permanent fixture. A regular grill is standalone, portable, or cart-mounted, allowing mobility and versatility in placement. Built-in grills are typically larger with more cooking space, while regular grills come in various sizes. Built-in grills are favored for creating a custom outdoor cooking area, while regular grills provide convenience and flexibility.

Yes, you need a hood for an outdoor kitchen. A ventilation hood is required over each cooking appliance, including grills, griddles, and woks. If these cooking surfaces are all in the same area, you can consolidate the hood to one single ventilation unit above the grouping of cooking appliances. A single ventilation hood may require custom fabrication, which may increase the cost compared to mass-produced options.

Silestone® isn’t recommended for outdoor use because UV rays can damage the surface. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration. Instead, choose an outdoor-friendly countertop material like tile, concrete, stainless steel, or natural stone. If you do choose a natural stone, make sure you either seal it or avoid highly porous stones. For example, choose soapstone over marble.

In most cases, you will need building permits for an outdoor kitchen. Generally speaking, you’ll need building permits for anything with a permanent foundation, and since outdoor kitchens typically require a concrete foundation, they demand building permits. Outdoor kitchen permits usually cost between $250 and $500, but you could pay as much as $2,000 for larger or more involved kitchens. You might also need separate permits to run utility lines to your kitchen, which could add an additional $75 to $200 to your installation cost.