Over the past few years, the UK’s outdoor cooking scene has undergone a significant transformation.
This can be seen especially in the southern parts of the country, but the trend is slowly migrating north, according to Belinda Dangerfield, Design Director at outdoor kitchen supplier, Urban Garden Space, exhibitor at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show. Belinda gives her suggestions for outdoor dining 2025:
Tips for Al Fresco Dining 2025
Gone are the days when a barbecue was just about flipping burgers and sausages. Today, we are embracing a much wider variety of dishes, experimenting with different techniques, and exploring global flavours. Low and slow cooking, inspired by American BBQ, has gained massive popularity, with pulled pork, brisket, and burnt ends becoming firm favourites. There’s also been a surge in interest in wood-fired cooking, with more people investing in pizza ovens and smokers to create authentic, restaurant-quality dishes at home. The influence of celebrity chefs, such as James Martin cooking on ITV’s Saturday Morning, has helped.
Another noticeable trend is the growing use of versatile, high-tech grills like pellet smokers, which offer consistency and convenience. These allow for a broader range of cooking styles—from baking and roasting to smoking and grilling—all in one piece of equipment. More people are also exploring plant-based BBQ options, catering to changing dietary preferences, with grilled vegetables, smoked jackfruit, and meat alternatives making regular appearances. You only have to watch BBC’s Great British Menu to see the influence there.
Fusion cooking is another area where Brits are becoming more adventurous. Whether it’s South African braai, Argentine asado, or Japanese yakitori, people are incorporating international flavours into their outdoor cooking experiences
Emerging Trends and Popular Products:
1. Full Outdoor Kitchens
The days of a standalone grill are fading as more homeowners enquiring & investing in full outdoor kitchen setups. This was apparent at this year’s National Homebuilding & Renovating show in Birmingham where the number of enquiries was double that of the previous year. These spaces now include not only multiple cooking appliances but also prep areas, outdoor refrigeration, and serving stations. An outdoor fridge is becoming a must-have addition, allowing food and beverages to be stored conveniently, reducing trips inside and keeping ingredients fresh for longer.
2. Pizza Ovens and Wood-Fired Cooking
Wood-fired cooking is still a massive trend, with pizza ovens remaining a popular choice. Home cooks are taking their outdoor entertaining to the next level by mastering Neapolitan-style pizzas, roasting meats, and even baking desserts—all with that signature wood-fired flavour. However, there are a number of gas pizza ovens coming onto the market whichoffer quick heat-up times, precise temperature control, and minimal cleanup. With less smoke and ash than wood-fired options, they provide a hassle-free, consistent cooking experience—perfect for effortless outdoor entertaining and authentic pizza results.
3. Portable and Versatile Grills
The demand for portable, easy-to-use grills that encourage diverse cooking styles is on the rise. Consumers are looking for products that offer flexibility, allowing them to switch between grilling, smoking, and roasting without needing multiple devices. Look for brands such as Weber Traveler; Ooni Karu 12 and Traeger Ranger.
4. Smart Grilling Technology
Technology is making its way into outdoor cooking, with smart thermometers, Wi-Fi-connected grills, and automated temperature controls becoming more popular. These innovations allow for greater control, consistency, and convenience, making outdoor cooking more accessible to all skill levels. Find smart technology in Traeger, Weber Meater and Kamado Joe products.
Top tips for hosting an unforgettable outdoor gathering:
1. Set the scene: Create a cozy, inviting space with string lights, lanterns, and comfortable seating to encourage guests to relax and linger. Consider adding a firepit or patio heater to extend the evening.
2. Plan a showstopper menu: Include a mix of crowd-pleasers like slow-cooked pulled pork or brisket, along with something unexpected—maybe a wood-fired pizza station or a dessert cooked on the grill. Don’t forget plant based and pescetarian options. For specialist meat options (beef short rib, Jacob’s Ladder, St Louis rack of ribs etc) I purchase online from The Village Butcher – https://thevillagebutchers.co.uk/
3. Set up interactive cooking stations: Get guests involved by offering build-your-own taco or pizza. This is especially fun for kids. By spreading this out across the garden, you can avoid the bottlenecks.
4. Stock up on essentials: Ensure you’ve got the right tools like a reliable meat thermometer and high-quality rubs and sauces. Don’t forget side dishes & nibbles.
5. Make the drinks interesting: Pair your dishes with refreshing cocktails, craft beers, or even smoky bourbon to complement the flavours. Make fresh lemonade with smoked lemons from the grill. Remember plenty of ice.
Seasonal White Asparagus Menu at German Gymnasium, King’s Cross
