If you have a backyard pool, you undoubtedly have a popular hot spot for outdoor entertaining. Make your outdoor living space even more usable with an outdoor kitchen. The outdoor kitchen has come a long way in recent years, especially in terms of function, beauty and affordability. With appliances right on your patio, you are able to entertain or simply enjoy an evening outdoors with the family without the hassle of running in and out for food and supplies. Here are some great ideas in outdoor kitchens that will enhance your outdoor living space and amp up your entertainment possibilities.

Delicious Cooking Options

Outdoor kitchens usually involve a variety of cooking options. While the grill continues to lead the pack in cooking possibilities, homeowners have a plethora of other possibilities as well. Outdoor ovens have now become a common addition to patios, such as brick ovens made for pizza baking.  The standard grill can also provide more cooking choices, such as burners for cooking with pots and pans on top of the standard grill for meats and veggies. Most experts agree the best grills are stainless steel inside and out to guard against rust and other outdoor damage.

Another great option for cooking opportunities poolside is a fireplace or one of the trendier fire pits available today. These structures come in a wide range of sizes and styles so you can add to the decor of your outdoor living space and enjoy a warm, aromatic fire at the same time. In addition to roasting marshmallows, these self contained fires are perfect for providing ambiance and warmth during evening gatherings. Look for a fire pit that can do double duty as an ice bucket or check out the styles surrounded by a tile table for additional function.

Chilling Function

Keeping the drinks cool is another must with an outdoor kitchen, and you have options here as well. A simple metal bin for keeping beer and sodas on ice is a perfect solution, but you can also invest in a small refrigerator designed especially for this purpose. Of course, refrigerators require electricity to run, so make sure you have the necessary outlet easily accessible before investing in one of these units. If you decide to splurge on a set of cabinets and countertops, you can find a refrigerator to sit snugly under the counter for compact convenience.

Food Prep

If you entertain frequently during the summer season, an island or bar setup might also be a welcome addition to your outdoor kitchen. These structures provide ample counter space for food preparation and serving, as well as storage underneath to house outdoor dishes and supplies. Countertops are frequently constructed of stone or brick to withstand the elements and add a natural style to your landscape. Cabinets should also be weatherized with water resistance and constructed of wood that is resistant to rot.

An outdoor kitchen can greatly expand the convenience and function of your outdoor living space. With style and practicality in mind, this area will become a hot spot for entertaining poolside.