Spencer Thorpe: Dining in the Great Outdoors

Thursday, June 15, 2017

Dining in the Great Outdoors – Nine Great Barbecue Ideas

Savour the best moments of summer by moving life outside any time that the weather permits. That includes cooking – because barbecue season is finally upon us. Turn the smallest corner of your garden patio or terrace into an al fresco kitchen, whip up a pitcher of sangria and invite your friends. There’s no more festive way to celebrate summer.

We’ve found some gorgeous essentials for outdoor grilling and decorating. Here are nine barbecue ideas.

Mint Condition

First things first. You’ll need a great grill. This 3-burner gas barbecue for Everdure by Heston Blumenthal can handle multiple independent cooking tasks and looks good doing it. The sleek mint green exterior (it’s also available in graphite and orange), variable heat control and fold away servery all make it a significant upgrade from the old Hibachi. £699.00

Kettle BBQ Chips

Not everyone has the space (or the need) for an elaborate 3-burner. This classically stylish kettle-style charcoal barbecue from Weber is perfect for grilling burgers and steaks, but it doesn’t take up a ton of room. £179.99

Green Eggs and Barbecue Ham

Those who own them swear by their ceramic egg-style charcoal barbecues for the fast, even cooking of everything from roast chicken to pizza. This deep green version on wheels from John Lewis comes with handy shelves and a metal nest with handler. £1,345.00

Al Fresco Dining

You slaved over a hot grill. Serve up dinner family-style for the whole gang on a sturdy outdoor table. We love the sophistication of this greyed acacia wood rectangular table from Maisons du monde. It’s made of weather resistant materials to withstand the elements, but reads sleek rather than rustic. £262.50

Pair it with a matching bench on one side and chairs on the other. These lightweight aluminium chairs provide contrast and comfort (especially with seat pillows added) and continue the contemporary garden room vibe. £52.49

Firestarter

Communal gatherings to gaze at dancing flames in the night are as old as civilization. Firepits are a popular patio feature right now, but we also love a chiminea, which sends heat up and away. Traditionally made of clay and used indoors, this sleek steel version burns charcoal or wood. £149

For those who prefer a lower profile for their bonfire, check out this stylish black Morsø firepit with an additional grate for cooking. It’s bold Danish design adds a sculptural touch to the proceedings. £295

Patio Lanterns

Fairy lights are always fun, and there are many solar-powered versions on the market. But we love the architectural silhouette and flair of lanterns. Check out this angular handmade version made from recycled wood and available at Etsy UK. £40

Or, keep the sophisticated grey colour scheme of our dining table and chairs going with these natural wood lanterns from Maisons du Monde. They make for a great freestanding accent piece and are especially romantic at night filled with candles. £80.48

You don’t need tons of stuff to enjoy a summer outdoors. Seats to plunk guests with drinks in hand, a bit of fire, a bit of candlelight, stars overhead, grilled meat and a groaning table of seasonal sides – these are the quintessential ingredients for great summer entertaining at home.

Spencer Thorpe