CJ’s Guide to the Perfect Grill Setup: Backyard vs. Apartment Edition

When we were at the apartment, we used to drag out this little electric grill to the balcony. It was tight, the smoke alarm would go off every now and then, but man, the memories? Worth it. Later, when we moved into a house with a backyard, the grill got bigger, the cookouts got longer, and suddenly grilling wasn’t just food — it was the event.

That’s the thing about grilling: one size doesn’t fit all. The perfect setup depends on your lifestyle, your space, and how far you want to take the craft. Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment with a small balcony or in a house with room to spread out, there’s a perfect grill waiting for you.

And because I’m CJ — your skeleton buddy who lives for good food, cold drinks, and that perfect char — I’m here to break it down for you.

🏡 Backyard Grill Setup – Go Big or Go Home

Backyards are where legends are made. You’ve got the space, so why not go all out? With the right grill, you’re not just making burgers — you’re hosting whole events, with family, friends, and maybe even a couple of nosy neighbors sneaking a plate.

🔥 Top 3 Backyard Grills

1. Weber Genesis E-325s Gas Grill
   
• Large cooking surface for family gatherings.
• Three burners + a sear station for perfect steaks.
• Heavy-duty build, built to last.
2. Traeger Pro 575 Wood Pellet Grill
   
• Slow-smoked wood-fired flavor.
• WiFIRE smart controls — grill from your phone.
• Briskets, ribs, and wings? This is your machine.
3. Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill
   
• Affordable kamado-style cooking.
• Holds heat like a champ.
• Great for searing, smoking, or even baking bread. 
  

🏢 Apartment / Small-Space Setup – Compact & Efficient

Not everyone has a backyard, and that’s okay. Some of my favorite grilling memories happened in tiny spaces with a couple of friends and a cooler full of drinks. If you’ve got a balcony, patio, or even just kitchen space, you can still make it happen.

🔥 Top 3 Apartment-Friendly Grills

1. Weber Q1400 Electric Grill
   
• Compact but powerful.
• Apartment-approved (no gas or charcoal needed).
• Heats fast and cooks evenly.
2. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
   
• Super versatile — use it inside or out.
• Easy to clean, affordable, reliable.
• Perfect for small families or solo grilling.
3. Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill & Smoker
   
• Portable, electric, and still gives woodfire flavor.
• Multi-tool: grill, smoke, and even air fry.
• Small but mighty.
  

 

 

🍴 Essential Tools for Any Setup

Whether you’re rocking a balcony grill or a backyard beast, you’ll need the right gear to do it right.

• Grill Tool Set – tongs, spatula, fork, and brush.
• Wireless Meat Thermometer – never overcook again.
• Heat-Resistant Gloves – keep your hands safe.
• Cast Iron Skillet – sides, searing, or dessert.
• Cooler for Drinks – because grilling is half about the chill.

 

 

 

🍻 Final Thoughts

 

Here’s the deal: grilling is less about the size of the grill and more about the size of the moments you create. Whether you’re cooking for two on a balcony or throwing down for the whole neighborhood, it’s about the food, the company, and the vibe.

So fire it up, throw CJ on a tee, grab a cold drink, and remember — it’s not just about grilling… it’s about the Grill & Chill.

👉 Ready to upgrade your setup? Check out the links above, pick your grill, and let’s get cooking.