Latest Outdoor Kitchen Trends

UPDATED ON: MAY 22, 2025

As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and entertain outdoors. But if your backyard setup is lacking, it may be time to upgrade. At Distinctive Outdoor Kitchens, we specialize in helping Raleigh homeowners design and build custom outdoor kitchens that are as functional as they are beautiful. Let’s explore the top outdoor kitchen trends this grilling season—and how to plan your dream space with must-have features.

Top Outdoor Kitchen Trends of the Year

1. Warming Drawers (Your Grilling Best Friend)

   One of the most underrated luxury features, a warming drawer keeps grilled foods hot so you can cook ahead of your guests arrival, so you can enjoy their company when they do arrive. It also allows you to keep food warm while folks are getting in and out of the pool.

2. Custom Outdoor Cabinets

   Durable, weather-resistant cabinets in stainless steel or marine-grade polymer adds style and function. Go for built-in trash storage, spice racks, or even pull-out bins for charcoal and wood chips.

3. Refrigeration + Dishwasher + Ice Makers

   Depending on how far your outdoor kitchen is from your other indoor appliances, there are some items that make a real difference when it is a good bit away. Outdoor-rated refrigerators, dishwashers and ice machines let you entertain without running back indoors.

4. Pizza Ovens

   As one of America’s favorite foods, making pizzas at home is hard to beat. But remember, pizza ovens can do more than just cook a great pizza. With a cast iron skillet, you can cook nearly anything in them. Plus, they double as an eye-catching focal point.

5. Smart Lighting & Sound Systems

   Control lights and speakers from your phone for the ultimate backyard vibe. Integrate LED task lighting under counters and ambient lighting around the patio.

6. Outdoor Vent Hoods

   Especially important in covered or partially enclosed areas, a vent hood helps keep smoke and grease out of your entertaining zone.

7. Durable Countertops

   Granite, Dekton, and other sintered stones are trending for their durability and upscale look. Choose a surface that can stand up to sun, spills, and the test of time.

Luxury Features That Make a Difference

Want to take your outdoor kitchen from great to unforgettable? Here’s our top list of luxury add-ons:

• Don’t forget the warming drawer—a feature we mentioned earlier—for keeping food hot and freeing up your time while guests are there
• Power burners for using small and large pots or for woks
• Pull-out trash and recycling drawers
• Kegerator or wine fridge
• Outdoor-rated dishwasher
• Stainless steel sinks with hot water hookup
• Drop-in coolers or bartending stations
• Custom stone or brick facades

Our Favorite Outdoor Kitchen Brands

We proudly use premium products from top industry brands—explore our trusted partners to see the quality behind every outdoor kitchen we build. At Distinctive Outdoor Kitchens, we tailor each design to match your lifestyle—and your dream backyard wishlist.

Start with a Solid Plan: Designing Your Outdoor Kitchen

Before diving into appliance choices or finishes, a solid design plan is key. Consider how you’ll use the space:

• Grill Master Setup: Are you the neighborhood BBQ pro? Make room for a premium built-in grill with ample prep space.
  
• Entertainment Hub: Hosting often? Include a bar counter, beverage fridge, and shaded seating.
  
• Four-Season Functionality: Want to use it beyond summer? Add infrared heaters, a roof structure, a fireplace, or all of the above.
  

Our team of outdoor kitchen designers in Raleigh, NC will walk you through layout options, custom cabinetry, and materials that suit your style and climate.

Explore Prefab Outdoor Kitchen Options

For homeowners looking to enjoy outdoor cooking without the investment of a full custom build, we also offer stylish and durable prefabricated outdoor kitchen options. These modular units deliver great functionality and aesthetic appeal—perfect for those who want a high-quality setup on a more modest budget.

Ready to Build Your Custom Outdoor Kitchen?

Whether you’re upgrading an existing space or starting from scratch, our team is here to guide you through every step—from custom design and planning to full installation. We offer premium appliances and materials to create outdoor custom kitchens in Raleigh, NC that elevate your backyard and boost your home’s value.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get grilling season off to a sizzling start.

Get inspired—view our Outdoor Kitchen Portfolio to see what’s possible for your space.