re: Big Green Egg or Knock Off

I bought an XL for about 1100 a few months ago. No stand and it's just sitting on a concrete patio. When I move I may build a nice table for it to sit in.

For now, I just take my LSU folding beach chair outside and sit near it. I'm pretty much at the same level if I stood next to one in a nest. With the weather getting colder, it's nice to sit out with a drink (whiskey, wine or beer) and roast a chicken. I can adjust the vents without moving and enjoy the weather or read a book.

Another favorite is paella on the BGE. There are a lot of steps and it's perfect for sitting outside and going through the process. I use my wife as the runner to bring things back and forth to the kitchen while I cook.


As to the OP, I would go with the BGE or another of the big brands. I think warranty and quality is the key. It may have cost $1100 (or a large for $300 less), but I know I'll have it for the next 20 years. If anything breaks, replacement is supposedly fairly hassle free. I've gone from a gas grill to the BGE and now I get angry if the weather keeps me from grilling at least 3 times a week.

Spatchcock chicken (cut the back bone out and open it up and grill bones down) is incredible. Last night I worked late and grabbed a rotisserie chicken from the grocery story. Not bad as usual, but not even close to the BGE. I've gone from someone who only really liked the dark meat on roasted chickens to loving the white meat. So much juicier. It's really a different product.

Spend the money if you have it. If not, wait a couple of months and save. It's worth it.