Outdoor Dining Options to Enjoy All Year Long

It’s about that time of year when the hot days turn into perfect summer nights, and BBQs with friends are on the calendar any chance you can get. We love a great excuse to entertain, and with an updated outdoor cooking and dining area, you’ll have all the reasons to invite guests over. Plus, with the right setup, you can enjoy your outdoor dining space season after season for nonstop fun. Here’s our rundown of the must-have elements you’ll want to have to host any get-together outdoors:

Alfresco Kitchens

On gorgeous nights when guests gather outdoors, no one wants to be stuck cooking in a hot kitchen inside by themselves, right? Outdoor kitchens allow you to entertain, socialize and cook all without leaving the backyard. You don’t need an entire kitchen setup, either. Simply a sink, cooktop and ample space to prep is all it takes.

For the counters, granite seems to be the obvious choice for a timeless look that’s durable and weather, mold and stain resistant. Another great option is Soapstone which is heat and stain resistant, perfect for busy nights and quick cleanups. Tile is also an option in warmer areas since it would require grout which can crack when too cold.

Don’t forget the sink. Whether you choose to just have one—or opt for separate wash and dump sinks—these options will fit right in.

Sizzling Hot Grill Counters

If you choose to forgo the outdoor kitchen setup in favor of your handy grill, you can still do it in style. Triton Stone is proud to partner with BULL Outdoor Kitchens to help you complete your outdoor project. Built-in grills are great options to add extra prep space through similar countertops as previously mentioned. With durability, stain, mold, and heat resistance at the top of the list, granite is one of the most popular options for the workspaces surrounding your grill tops.

Tile is another popular choice (weather dependent, of course), however, something to consider with tile is that grout, which would fill in between the pieces of tile, can stain. If tile is your material of choice, consider larger pieces for less grout needed—and in turn, less stained grout overall. Triton Stone offers many options of grout sealer to protect against staining. That said, tile should be considered for decorative backsplashes in your grilling area.

Consider Your Floor Materials

If you want your outdoor dining space to scream style, then keep in mind the various materials already used throughout your backyard. Try to find complementary materials for your new outdoor kitchens or grill setups with the materials used for your floors.

If you missed our previous post, Love Your Outdoor Space Again, take a quick read now to see how flagstone, slate, travertine and limestone are the go-to materials for outside decks and patios.

Outdoor Entertaining Made Easy All Year Round

Depending on where you live, summer may feel too short. You want longer nights outside, more backyard parties and to simply relax in the quiet outdoors. Guess what? That’s not too hard to accomplish after all.

Transition your patio from summer to fall—and even into winter—with these additions:

• Add Extra Lighting. Don’t worry about it getting too dark too early when you have a backup plan for lighting. A few extra strings of lights, a chic chandelier or a beautiful centerpiece made up of electric candles can do the trick.
• Enclose Your Space. We know you want to feel the breeze during the summer nights, but when it starts to cool down, a breeze can put a freeze on an evening party. Consider retractable glass windows for patios or roll down plastic covers to keep you warm inside.
• Keep Blankets on Hand. Sometimes a simple blanket or throw is all that’s needed to keep everyone happy to stay outdoors.

Don’t stay cooped up inside a second longer. Temps outside are warming up…finally! Comfortable outdoor spaces are an extension of your home. Not only do they provide an extra space to entertain during the warmer seasons, but outdoor kitchens also add value to your home. Enjoy a mini vacation in your backyard with an outdoor kitchen, pool, fire pit or grilling area designed using gorgeous products from Triton Stone!

Contact us today at Triton Stone to start cooking, dining and celebrating alfresco all summer long.