In Salt Lake City, entertaining outdoors isn’t just a summer thing—it’s a way of life. With our dry climate, clear skies, and mountain views, many homeowners are upgrading their patios with outdoor kitchens that turn casual BBQs into unforgettable gatherings. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a party under the stars, a custom-built patio cooking area makes entertaining easier, more enjoyable, and way more stylish.
This guide explores the most popular features, layouts, and design tips for building an outdoor kitchen in Salt Lake City, along with insights on how to make it functional year-round.
Why Build an Outdoor Kitchen in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City’s unique mix of sunshine, cool evenings, and an outdoor-oriented culture makes it an ideal location for open-air cooking and dining spaces. A well-designed outdoor kitchen blends functionality with aesthetics and adds serious value to your home.
Benefits of a Backyard Kitchen:
- Easy outdoor entertaining—no running in and out
- Increases usable living space
- Boosts home value and curb appeal
- Creates a focal point for social gatherings
- Designed to work with Utah’s climate and materials
Top Features for Salt Lake City Outdoor Kitchens
No two outdoor kitchens are the same—but here are some must-have elements for creating a complete and stylish setup that works for every season:
1. Built-In Grill or Smoker
The heart of any backyard BBQ setup, your grill can be built into a stone, brick, or steel counter with adjacent prep space. Choose gas, charcoal, or even a smoker based on your cooking style.
2. Under-Counter Refrigerator
Keep drinks, marinades, and sides close at hand without trekking to the indoor fridge.
3. Storage Cabinets & Drawers
Weatherproof cabinetry keeps utensils, dishware, and spices organized and ready to use—no more hauling gear outside every time.
4. Counter Space
Every patio cooking area needs plenty of prep space. Concrete, granite, and sealed stone are all great options that can handle Salt Lake’s sun, snow, and everything in between.
5. Shelter & Shade
Pergolas, retractable awnings, or even a covered pavilion help block out intense sun or unexpected rain, so your kitchen is usable spring through fall.
6. Lighting & Ambiance
Low-voltage LED lighting or overhead café lights create a warm, inviting space for nighttime gatherings.
Design Tips for Outdoor Kitchens in Utah’s Climate
When designing your outdoor kitchen in Salt Lake City, you’ll need to account for local conditions—like temperature swings, snow in the winter, and UV exposure in the summer.
Local Design Considerations:
- Use weatherproof materials: Stainless steel, sealed stone, and composite wood hold up well in Utah’s dry and snowy seasons.
- Plan for winterization: Include shut-off valves and drain lines so your kitchen can be protected when temperatures drop.
- Create micro-zones: Pair your kitchen with a dining space, bar counter, or fire pit for a layered, social design.
- Take advantage of views: Position your kitchen where you can enjoy the Wasatch Mountains or sunsets from your prep zone.
Layout Ideas for Salt Lake City Homes
Here are a few layout concepts we frequently build for local homeowners:
L-Shaped Kitchen + Island Bar
Great for open patios and larger gatherings. One side for cooking, one side for mingling.
Galley-Style Outdoor Kitchen
Ideal for narrow patios. Everything is in a row—grill, fridge, sink, storage.
Grill Station + Fire Pit Combo
A favorite in SLC: A small kitchen adjacent to a built-in fire pit lounge. Entertain, eat, then relax.
Outdoor Kitchen with Pizza Oven
Add a wood-fired or gas pizza oven for an upscale touch and major party appeal.
At Millburn Lawn & Landscape, we help homeowners in Salt Lake City design and build outdoor kitchens that fit their lifestyle and add value to their homes. Whether you want a simple grilling station or a full chef’s setup, our team brings craftsmanship and local insight to every project.
Start your outdoor kitchen design today and let us help you build a patio worth gathering around.
