One Christmas morning my three-year-old son discovered that Santa had left him a king's ransom of gifts. His favorite? Not the castle (though he does love to yell "Raise the portcullis!") nor the books nor the football. Nope, it was the plastic kettle grill, complete with glowing "coals" that make a sizzling sound as you move the pretend food across the grate. We're still eating perfectly prepared rubber hot dogs ... nine months later.

Outdoor Kitchens is a photographic tour of outdoor cooking spaces, including a product-review section, advice on choosing equipment and protecting it from the elements, and ideas for creating a distinctive and personal outdoor space. Whether you want an outdoor food prep area, pizza oven, bar, dining space, or living area complete with a fireplace,this is the ultimate guide to outfitting and decorating an outdoor kitchen to suit your needs.

Introduction

CHAPTER ONE: TAKE IT OUTSIDE

Designing the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen

Finding Your Outdoor Cooking Style

Make a List, Check It Twice

A Perfect Fit

Location Is Everything

Freestanding or Attached

The Right Site

Designing for the Whole Family

Seeking Professional Help

Everything in Its Place

Geometry for the Outdoor Kitchen

Plan for Success

Advanced Placement

Working Together

Fine Dining

Natural Beauty

Practical Matters

CHAPTER TWO: THE RIGHT STUFF

Outfitting Your Outdoor Kitchen

What's Cooking

Buying a Gas Grill

Buying a Charcoal Grill

Other Options

Electric Grills

Outdoor Ovens

Accessorize

Clearing the Air

Cleaning Up

Keeping Your Cool

A DiFferent View

Store More

Critter Control

Surface Report

Top Selections

Design Ideas

What's Underfoot?

CHAPTER THREE: ENTERTAINING AL FRESCO

Bringing the Elegance Out-of-Doors

The Bar Crowd

Design Details

Dining Out

The Right Style

The Perfect Setting

Party Time

Lounge Act

Linking Inside and Out

How Much Is Enough?

Extra, Extra

That's Entertaining

Crowd Control

CHAPTER FOUR: SETTING THE MOOD

Expressing Your Individual Style

Finding Your Style

Timeless Traditional

Rustic Rules

Contemporary Arts

Exotic Airs

CHAPTER FIVE: SECRETS OF SUCCESS

It's in the Details

Lighting Your Way

Weather Report

Give Me Shelter

Protect and Serve

Keeping Warm

Care and Handling

Cleanup Time

Clutter Control

Unwanted Visitors

CHAPTER SIX: BUYER'S GUIDE

Product Recommendations for Efficiency and Comfort

CHAPTER SEVEN: YOU CAN DO IT

Hands-on Projects That Will Enhance

Your Cooking Capabilities

Make a Freestanding Arbor

Tile a Countertop

Build an Indispensable Outdoor Kitchen Cart

Resources

Photographer Credits

About the Author

Acknowledgments