These essentials from some of our favorite member companies can elevate any backyard BBQ.
By Nicholas Tamarin
As warmer months approach, the backyard becomes more than just a patch of green—it transforms into the heart of home entertaining. But outdoor living has evolved well beyond the classic grill. Today’s backyard kitchens are fully equipped culinary spaces designed for convenience, performance, and entertaining in style. Whether hosting a summer pizza night or prepping drinks for a weekend BBQ, the right grill, pizza oven, refrigerator, or sink can make all the difference.
The following NKBA | KBIS member brands make the products that make it easy to entertain in style. With thoughtful design and cutting-edge performance, they’ll ensure your next backyard gathering will impress regardless of what’s on the menu. Whether you’re building a full alfresco kitchen or simply upgrading your BBQ station, investing in these high-quality outdoor appliances where durability meets design will make you the ultimate host of the season.
PITT Cooking: Minimalist Design and Maximum Performance
For those who believe outdoor cooking should look as good as it performs, PITT Cooking offers a striking alternative to the traditional grill setup. Known for its integrated gas burners built directly into the countertop, PITT allows for a seamless, open design.
Why we love it: The minimalist aesthetic is paired with high-performance power, making it a go-to choice for design-forward homeowners who want complete control over their outdoor kitchen layout. Plus, its durable materials stand up beautifully to the elements, season after season.
Urban Bonfire x Kalamazoo: Custom Outdoor Kitchens That Wow
Creating a cohesive, functional, and stylish outdoor space starts with the right cabinetry—and Urban Bonfire delivers in spades. Their custom-built, marine-grade aluminum cabinetry is made to withstand harsh weather without sacrificing visual appeal. Combine it with Kalamazoo Gourmet’s best-in-class outdoor appliances, and you’ve got a kitchen that rivals any indoor setup. From weather-resistant surfaces to built-in grills and beverage centers, this pairing brings professional-grade sophistication and performance to your backyard.
Why we love it: The Kalamazoo AFPO-C Countertop Artisan Fire Pizza Oven offers the convenience of gas power while reaching temperatures of 800°F+ for authentic, wood-fired results without the wait. Its dual burners allow for customizable heat zones and precise control.
Hestan: Bold Color Meets Culinary Precision
Known for pushing the boundaries of outdoor cooking, Hestan delivers robust grilling systems with a bold, designer touch. Their color-customizable grills—available in a range of vibrant hues—add a pop of personality to any outdoor setting. But it’s not just about looks. With infrared sear burners, motion-activated under-hood lighting, and precision control, Hestan grills are made for serious outdoor chefs who demand both style and substance.
Why we love it: Hestan’s Outdoor Refrigerators, with their commercial-grade build, LED interior lighting, adjustable shelves, and temperature control system designed for extreme heat, are equally as excellent as their grills.
Ruvati: Making Sinks Sturdy and Sleek
A functional outdoor sink is essential for a fully equipped prep station. The best outdoor sinks offer durability, weather resistance, and sleek design. Ruvati’s marine-grade outdoor sinks are designed for outdoor areas where extreme corrosion resistance is crucial.
Why we love it: Its Outdoor Workstation Sinks stand out for their heavy-duty 16-gauge stainless steel construction and inclusion of built-in accessories like a cutting board, colander, and drying rack.
