Planning an outdoor kitchen in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, or anywhere across the Greater New Orleans metro is exciting, but it takes some extra thought compared to cooler climates. Our heat and humidity are relentless from late spring through early fall, hurricane season brings strong winds and heavy rain June through November, and mold and mildew can develop quickly on surfaces left untreated. The 10 features below will help you build an outdoor kitchen that performs all year long and holds up to South Louisiana’s weather.
An ideal outdoor living space blends comfort, practicality, and style.
This post guides you through key considerations: selecting durable materials, ensuring ample counter space, smart storage solutions, and weatherproof appliances built for our climate.
We’ll also cover how lighting, shade structures, greenery, and entertainment options complete the picture, turning your outdoor kitchen into an inviting hub for family gatherings and neighborhood cookouts.
1. Durable Materials
Choose materials that can handle New Orleans’ combination of high heat, heavy rain, and persistent humidity. Granite or concrete countertops are tough and low maintenance. Stainless steel cabinetry resists moisture and holds up well in our climate. For flooring, natural stone or ceramic tiles work well and stand up to both heat and frequent wet weather. Choose fixtures and fittings from high-quality brands built for outdoor exposure.
2. Ample Counter Space
Chop, marinate, and plate your creations with ease by ensuring your outdoor kitchen has plenty of counter space. This is especially important when entertaining guests or cooking large meals.
Beautiful hardscaping materials can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor kitchen. Consider durable countertops made from granite or stainless steel that can withstand the elements and clean up easily.
Quality matters as much as quantity when it comes to counter space. Make sure you have enough room to get the job done and choose materials that will endure.
3. Storage Solutions
Your outdoor kitchen needs to be functional and organized. Cabinets, drawers, and shelves are important for keeping your cooking supplies accessible and in order.
- Cabinets: Opt for moisture-resistant materials like stainless steel or teak for longevity in our humid climate.
- Drawers: Ideal for storing utensils and small appliances. Choose ones with secure locks to keep everything in place.
- Shelves: Great for displaying decorative items or keeping spices within reach while cooking.
Incorporating these features will ensure a smooth flow of activities in your outdoor kitchen, making it a more enjoyable place to cook and entertain.
4. Weatherproof Appliances: A Must-Have for Your Outdoor Kitchen
In the New Orleans metro, “weatherproof” isn’t marketing language, it’s a requirement. Our summers bring intense UV exposure and high humidity that break down inferior materials fast. Invest in appliances rated for outdoor use and built to handle persistent moisture, not just occasional rain.
Grills: The Centerpiece of Your Outdoor Kitchen
A grill is a must-have appliance for any outdoor kitchen. It’s the centerpiece of your setup and the perfect tool for cooking burgers, steaks, and vegetables. Outdoor grilling imparts a distinctive flavor you simply can’t replicate indoors.
Smokers: Slow-Cook Your Way to Great Flavor
If you’re a fan of slow-cooked meats like ribs or brisket, a smoker is a great addition. It infuses your food with a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. Set it, let it run, and come back to perfectly cooked meat a few hours later.
Outdoor Refrigerators: Keep Your Food and Drinks Cold
Don’t waste time running back and forth to your indoor fridge. An outdoor refrigerator keeps food and drinks accessible, especially useful during long gatherings in the summer heat.
Sinks: Make Cleanup a Breeze
An outdoor sink makes cleanup much easier and keeps the mess outside where it belongs. It’s a practical addition that saves time and effort.
Investing in weatherproof appliances requires a larger upfront cost, but it saves money over time by avoiding frequent replacements from weather damage.
5. Light Up Your Outdoor Kitchen
Don’t let sunset cut your cooking short. String lights add a touch of charm, while lanterns provide a warm, classic vibe.
Task lighting is important for cooking and food prep areas. Accent lighting can highlight your patio’s best features and create a welcoming atmosphere.
Good lighting isn’t just functional, it sets the mood. Make your outdoor kitchen an inviting place to be, day or night.
6. Creating a Comfortable Seating Area for Your Outdoor Kitchen
Add comfortable seating to your outdoor kitchen so guests have a place to relax. Cushioned chairs, benches, or built-in seating all work well.
Dine or Lounge? Why Not Both?
Create distinct zones for dining and lounging to maximize your space. Bar stools at the counter provide casual seating while you cook, while lounge chairs give guests a spot to relax.
Weather-Resistant Seating is Key
In New Orleans’ humid, rainy climate, weather-resistant materials for your seating aren’t a luxury. They’re what keeps your investment looking good season after season.
7. Fire Up Your Outdoor Kitchen with a Fire Feature
Gather around the flames and enjoy the warmth and atmosphere of a fire feature in your outdoor kitchen. Whether you choose a wood-burning fireplace or a gas fire bowl, this centerpiece will bring your patio to life on cooler New Orleans evenings.
Location and Design
When choosing a fire feature, consider its location in relation to seating areas and make sure it complements the overall design of your outdoor space. Safety should be a top priority, so ensure there’s enough clearance from combustible materials and that it includes protective barriers if needed.
Cooking and Ambiance
A fire feature not only provides a warm ambiance but also serves as an additional cooking source. Roast marshmallows, grill kebabs, or simply enjoy the warmth on a mild New Orleans evening.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Regular maintenance keeps your fire feature in top condition. Clean out ashes and debris, check gas lines for leaks, and make sure the ignition system is working properly.
With a fire feature in your outdoor kitchen, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night at home.
8. Shade Structures
Shade is non-negotiable in a New Orleans summer. From umbrellas to custom-built patio covers, Big Easy Patios can help you find the right solution.
Pergolas offer partial shade and visual appeal, while patio covers provide substantial protection against the sun and our frequent afternoon downpours. We’ll make sure your shade structure integrates seamlessly with your outdoor kitchen design.
9. Greenery & Landscaping
An outdoor kitchen isn’t just about appliances and seating. It’s about creating an inviting atmosphere. Adding greenery and landscaping brings that to life.
Plants Galore
Potted plants are an easy way to add greenery without a full garden commitment. If you’re feeling ambitious, a small herb garden can take your cooking to the next level, and plenty of herbs thrive in South Louisiana’s warm climate.
Flower Power
Flowering plants add color and vibrancy to your outdoor kitchen. Choose plants that thrive in USDA zone 9b and are easy to maintain in our warm, humid conditions.
Water Works
If you have the space, a water feature like a fountain or small pond adds a soothing element to your outdoor space. The sound of running water is a great complement to an outdoor dining area.
Sculpture Garden
For those who want to add some art, sculptures can be a great option. Choose pieces that complement the overall style of your home and patio.
The key is to create a cohesive look that complements your outdoor kitchen. Get creative and make it your own.
10. Entertainment Options
Creating an entertaining atmosphere is the finishing touch for any outdoor kitchen. A weatherproof TV lets you watch sports or movies while grilling, making your patio the go-to spot for game nights and cookouts.
High-quality outdoor speakers let you enjoy music without worrying about weather damage. If you have the space, add some outdoor games like cornhole or horseshoes as well.
With these features, your outdoor kitchen becomes more than just a cooking space. It transforms into an entertaining hub where everyone wants to gather.
Conclusion
Build your outdoor kitchen with these 10 must-have features for a cooking and dining experience that works beautifully in the Greater New Orleans area.
Durable materials, ample counter space, entertainment options, and shade structures are just a few of the elements that make an outdoor kitchen truly shine in South Louisiana.
Don’t settle for a basic backyard setup. Build a fully equipped outdoor kitchen and make your home the place everyone wants to be.
