The Outdoor Kitchen Confusion
Outdoor kitchens have the widest price range of any backyard feature. I've quoted $9,999 and $65,000 for projects that both get called 'outdoor kitchen.' So let me explain what you actually get at each level.
Basic Kitchen: $9,999
Our entry-level package includes:
- 6-foot straight island with stucco finish
- 30" built-in BBQ grill (quality brand, lifetime burner warranty)
- Stone or granite countertop
- Single access door for storage
- Gas hookup to existing line
Best for: Homeowners who grill regularly but don't need a full kitchen. This is a significant upgrade from a freestanding grill and adds real value to your backyard.
Popular Kitchen: $14,999
Our most requested package adds:
- 8-foot L-shaped or straight island
- 36" premium grill with rotisserie
- Outdoor-rated refrigerator
- Double access doors + drawers
- Bar seating for 3-4 people
- LED under-counter lighting
- Upgraded countertop material
Best for: Families who entertain regularly and want convenience without going overboard. This is the sweet spot for most clients.
Premium Kitchen: $19,999
The full-featured experience includes:
- 10-12 foot custom island configuration
- Lynx, Twin Eagles, or equivalent professional grill
- Full appliance suite (fridge, ice maker, warming drawer)
- Pizza oven option
- Sink with running water
- Premium stone countertops (granite, quartzite)
- Upgraded electrical for small appliances
Best for: Serious home cooks who want to prepare entire meals outdoors. This competes with your indoor kitchen.
Kitchen + Pergola: $29,999
Our premium combination includes:
- Everything in the Popular Kitchen package
- Custom solid-roof pergola over kitchen area
- Integrated ceiling lighting and fan
- Weather protection for year-round use
- Coordinated design aesthetic
Best for: Creating a true outdoor room that's usable regardless of sun or light rain. The pergola transforms the experience.
We ended up doing pavers, turf, built in BBQ and pergola. Elan got the vision and ran with it. — Chris M., via Google
What Drives Price Up?
- Appliance brand: A Lynx grill costs 3x a standard brand
- Countertop material: Granite vs. tile vs. concrete
- Utilities: New gas lines, electrical runs, water hookups
- Configuration: L-shapes and curves cost more than straight islands
- Finishes: Stone veneer vs. stucco vs. tile
💡 Pro Tip
Invest in the grill—it's what you'll use most. You can always add accessories later, but the grill is the heart of the kitchen.
What Our Clients Say
"Elan and the team over at Moda are spectacular! On my first call, Elan was very responsive and not pushy at all. He got the vision and ran with it. We ended up doing pavers, turf, built in BBQ and pergola."
Chris Menendez
via GoogleWatch the Transformation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permits for an outdoor kitchen?
Usually yes, especially for gas and electrical work. We handle all permitting.
Can I add appliances to a basic kitchen later?
Sometimes, if the island was designed with expansion in mind. Tell us your long-term plans upfront.
What's the most popular outdoor kitchen configuration?
The L-shaped island with grill, fridge, and bar seating. It provides prep space, cold storage, and socializing all in one.
