Outdoor Kitchen Prep Tables for Storage and Utility

Outdoor gatherings with family and friends often revolve around the grill. Burgers sizzling and smoke billowing is a sure sign that dinner is served. But while the grill may be the star of the show, the supporting cast of an outdoor kitchen is just as vital. This is where the outdoor kitchen prep table comes in handy.

An outdoor kitchen prep table provides ample extra space for food preparation and storage. No more running back and forth from the indoor kitchen to grab ingredients and utensils. A dedicated prep area outside means you can prep, cook, and serve without missing a beat. Not only does this table offer functionality, but style too. With a variety of durable finishes like stainless steel, resin, tile and wood, an outdoor prep table complements any backyard oasis.

Key Benefits of an Outdoor Kitchen Prep Table

Investing in an outdoor kitchen prep table brings many advantages over improvising with plastic folding tables. Built to withstand the weather and elements, outdoor prep tables are constructed specifically for life outdoors. Here are some of the top benefits you can expect:

Durable and Easy to Clean Materials

Outdoor kitchen prep tables come in stainless steel, resin, tile and wood surfaces. Stainless steel offers a modern look and withstands weather and wear and tear. Resin brings vibrant color options in a lightweight but tough material. Tile gives a built-in look with countless patterns and textures. Select prep tables even have a stone veneer for added luxury. Each of these surfaces can handle spills, grease, food debris while wiping clean with minimal effort.

Convenient Features and Storage

From side shelves to rear storage cabinets, many outdoor kitchen prep tables provide extra storage and features. Side shelves give a spot for condiment bottles, cutting boards and grilling tools within arm's reach. Storage cabinets and drawers build right into the base of select tables with ample room for dishware, utensils, pantry items and more. Some prep tables even have bottle openers, paper towel holders and spice racks integrated into the design.

Portable and Movable

Smaller portable prep tables easily move where they're needed most with built-in wheels or casters. Even larger stationary tables allow you to stow them away to make patio space during the off season. Folding side tables and removable parts like cutting boards also enhance portability for compact storage. With custom outdoor kitchen cabinetry, you can even design a dedicated cubby, cabinet or drawer built into your outdoor space to house your table.

Doubles as Extra Seating and Serving Area

The spacious surface of an outdoor kitchen prep table also moonlights as extra seating and dining space. During downtimes in meal preparation, guests can set drinks and plates while they wait for food. The surface corrals serving dishes, side fixings and desserts to keep your main table less cluttered too. Waterproof and food-safe surfaces easily wipe clean after eating.

Holds Up To 60 Gallons of Storage Capacity

Stationary outdoor kitchen prep tables equipped with storage can pack quite a punch. With its cabinets, drawers and shelving, storage capacity ranges widely but tops out around 60 gallons. That's enough room for dishes, glassware, grilling utensils, pantry items and more. Consider getting storage organizers, containers and racks to customize the space.

Important Considerations When Selecting an Outdoor Kitchen Prep Table

Outdoor kitchen prep tables check all the boxes for extra storage, food prep space and style. But choosing the right one for your needs takes some consideration. Keep these tips in mind while shopping:

Table Placement

First determine the best spot to set up your outdoor kitchen prep table. Do you need it right next to the grill for basting and flipping? Is it better situated near your outdoor sink for washing veggies and hands-on prep? Also consider proximity to seating areas if you want to also use it for serving food and clearing plates.

Surface Material

Think about your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and prep needs to select surface material. Stainless steel makes for easy-clean functionality but lacks color. Vibrant resin comes in endless colors but scratches easier under sharp knives or rough usage. Consider composite materials like Dekton by Cosentino which offer ultra durability and more aesthetic options. Butch block wood looks chic but requires maintenance to keep food safe.

Storage Type and Features

Choose from open shelves, cabinets, drawers or a mix of all three suited for small or large equipment, ingredients and dishware. Look for more specific features like bottle openers, paper towel stands, side tables and condiment racks too. Custom design options through outdoor kitchen contractors let you build in functionality tailored to your unique needs.

Mobility Preferences

Wheeled portable tables easily move where needed but come in smaller sizes. Stationary tables anchored in place boast bigger footprint options yet don't adjust positions. Choose based on convenience factors like stowing the table away or keeping the prepping surface always accessible right off the grill.

Weather Resistance Needs

Select UV, water and weather-resistant construction that stands up to sun, rain, snow and other outdoor elements in your climate. Stainless steel and exterior-rated woods are naturally resilient materials. Heavy duty resin offers similar protections in vibrant hues. Investing in protective outdoor furniture covers further shields the table's surface from weathering over time.

Size Dimensions

Consider the size dimensions based on space allowance and needs. Portable wheeled tables typically come smaller in the 2.5-3 foot width range. Stationary built-in designs have more size flexibility, some reaching up to 6+ feet wide. Pick adequate area to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously plus room for culinary equipment storage.

Matching Current Outdoor Kitchen and Decor

Select outdoor prep table style, color and finish that complements existing grills, cabinetry, furnishings and architecture for a cohesive outdoor living space. Custom fabricated tables through your outdoor kitchen contractor color match perfectly.

Top All-Weather Features to Look for in an Outdoor Kitchen Prep Table

The right construction makes outdoor kitchen prep tables resilient to rain, sun, snow and other external factors. Seek out these all-weather features:

Durable Surfaces

Heavy gauge stainless steel, enameled steel, exterior woods and weatherproof resin like polyethylene withstand moisture, UV rays and everyday use. Butcher block requires extra sealing maintenance to hold up outside.

Rust-Resistant Metals

Stainless steel contains chromium to deter rusting even when wet. Likewise, aluminum framing and hardware better resist corrosion than standard steel.

Powder-Coated or Enameled Frames

Frames with a baked-on powder coating add a protective barrier. Color choices like black or bronze make for an upscale look too.

Weatherproof Cabinetry

Moisture-sealed cabinets, shelves and drawers keep contents protected and dry. Magnetic closures rather than pulls help better seal interiors.

Integrated Storage

Built-in cabinetry, drawers and shelving keeps essentials contained in one convenient spot instead of scattered about.

Locking Wheels or Leveling Feet

For portable tables, wheels that set in place prevent shifting once in optimal position. Leveling feet on stationary tables stabilize on uneven surfaces.

Laminated Finish

Multiple protective laminate layers help shield wood tabletops from environmental wear.

Creative Outdoor Kitchen Prep Table Storage Solutions

Having a dedicated prepping station outside eliminates that all too common scenario of kitchen clutter chaos. Keep your outdoor cooking essentials organized with these storage ideas for your prep table:

Store grilling tools like spatulas, tongs and skewers in one handy wall-mounted rack. Built-in drawers or shelves work too. Having utensils right at the prep table eliminates hunting through kitchen drawers.