Grills & Griddles

“Best” is a moving target that depends entirely on your cooking style. If you value bulletproof longevity and classic searing, Weber is the undisputed king of gas and charcoal. For those who want the “set it and forget it” convenience of a kitchen oven with the flavor of a wood fire, Green Mountain Grills and Traeger lead the pack in pellet technology. If you’re more into smash burgers and big breakfasts, Blackstone has revolutionized the backyard with their heavy-duty griddles. Each brand excels in its specific niche, so the best choice is the one that fits how you actually spend your Saturday afternoons.

For most backyard pitmasters, a pellet grill like the Traeger Pro 575 or the Green Mountain Peak Prime is the best smoker for consistent results. These units use an auger to feed wood pellets into a fire pot, maintaining a precise temperature within a few degrees. It takes the guesswork out of “low and slow” cooking, allowing you to sleep through a brisket smoke. If you prefer a more “hands-on” traditional approach, the Weber Original Kettle is surprisingly effective as a smoker when using the “snake method” with charcoal, providing that deep, authentic smoke ring that purists crave.

While many of the most popular brands – including Traeger and Green Mountain Grills – are designed and engineered in the United States, their mass-market manufacturing is typically done overseas to keep them affordable for the average backyard. If you are looking for a pellet grill strictly made on American soil, you’ll usually be looking at high-end, heavy-duty brands like Yoder Smokers, Pitts & Spitts, or Cookshack. These are built with thicker American steel and are often found at a much higher price point than the standard units you’ll see at most local hardware stores.

You can find the most popular Weber models at Nixa Hardware & Seed Co, from the portable Q 1200 for camping to the full-sized Spirit E-310 for the patio. Shopping locally allows you to see the difference between the porcelain-enameled lids and the stainless steel components before you buy. It also ensures you are getting a grill that is suited for our local climate. Whether you need a simple charcoal starter or a high-end gas unit, having a local pro walk you through the features ensures you aren’t overbuying or missing out on the specific tools you need for your next BBQ.