Quick Summary:
Price: $1,299.00
Pros
- Exceptional Heat Retention and Control: The thick ceramic body provides excellent heat retention, making it easy to maintain precise temperatures for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.
- Versatile Cooking System: The Divide & Conquer system allows for multi-level cooking at different temperatures, making it possible to sear, roast, and slow cook all at once.
- Air Lift Hinge for Easy Handling: The spring-loaded hinge makes lifting the heavy ceramic lid almost effortless, enhancing safety and convenience during grilling.
- Durable Build Quality: With a robust ceramic body and quality metal components, the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last and withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Fuel Efficiency: The efficient vent system and ceramic insulation reduce charcoal consumption, making the grill economical to use over time.
Cons
- Price Point: The Kamado Joe Classic II is more expensive than many standard grills, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
- Learning Curve: For those unfamiliar with ceramic or Kamado-style grills, mastering temperature control and air vent management can take some time.
When I first received the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately impressed by the quality of its packaging and the sturdiness of its build. Weighing around 250 pounds, this grill is clearly not designed for frequent moving. However, once it was set up in my backyard, it became evident that this grill was built to last. The ceramic body feels incredibly durable, and the vibrant red color adds a striking, stylish touch to any outdoor space. Its design combines the traditional Kamado aesthetic with modern features, making it both functional and a beautiful addition to my outdoor kitchen.
Heat Retention and Temperature Control
One of the standout qualities of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its superior heat retention. Thanks to its thick ceramic walls, it excels at maintaining consistent temperatures for both low-and-slow cooking and high-heat searing. The grill features a top vent called the "Kontrol Tower" and a bottom air vent, both of which allow precise temperature control. Whether you're smoking at a low 225°F or cranking it up to 600°F for a quick sear, controlling the temperature on this grill is surprisingly easy and efficient.
Divide & Conquer Cooking System
A key feature that sets the Kamado Joe Classic II apart from other grills is its innovative Divide & Conquer cooking system. The system includes half-moon grates that can be positioned at different heights, allowing you to cook various foods at different temperatures simultaneously. This feature came in handy during large family gatherings, where I could grill steaks at a high temperature on one level while slow-cooking vegetables on another. It adds a level of flexibility to cooking that you don’t typically find in other grills.
Air Lift Hinge: A Game Changer
Lifting the heavy ceramic lid on most Kamado-style grills can be a bit of a challenge. However, the Air Lift Hinge on the Kamado Joe Classic II solves this problem. This spring-loaded hinge makes opening and closing the lid virtually effortless, reducing the perceived weight of the lid by 96%. Not only does this feature make the grill easier to use, but it also enhances safety during long cooking sessions at high temperatures.
Cleaning and Maintenance
One of my concerns with ceramic grills was the potential hassle of cleaning them. Fortunately, the Kamado Joe Classic II makes maintenance simple. Its ceramic surface doesn’t trap grease and grime like metal grills, so residue can easily be burned off during a high-heat cook. The Slide-Out Ash Drawer makes ash removal quick and easy, further reducing the typical time and effort spent on cleaning.
Superior Smoking Capabilities
A major reason I chose the Kamado Joe Classic II was its smoking capabilities. The grill is perfect for low-and-slow cooking, maintaining stable low temperatures ideal for smoking large cuts of meat like briskets or pork shoulders. The thick ceramic walls help retain heat efficiently, and with the right airflow adjustments, you can maintain steady smoking temperatures for hours. The addition of natural lump charcoal and heat deflectors creates the perfect smoking environment, producing rich, smoky flavors.
Built to Last: Durability and Longevity
The Kamado Joe Classic II is constructed with longevity in mind. Its ceramic body is highly resistant to the elements, and the metal components are equally durable. After several months of use, including exposure to varying weather conditions, the grill has shown no signs of rust or wear. With proper care, including the use of a grill cover, this grill will likely last for many years, making it a great long-term investment for serious grillers.
Accessories and Extras: Expanding the Grill’s Versatility
One of the best things about Kamado Joe is the wide range of available accessories that enhance the grill’s versatility. I tested the JoeTisserie attachment, which added a whole new dimension to cooking. The rotisserie chicken I made was perfectly cooked, with crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Other accessories like the pizza stone and rib rack allow you to take full advantage of the grill's versatility, whether you're baking, roasting, or slow-cooking.
Price and Value: A Worthy Investment
While the Kamado Joe Classic II is priced at a premium compared to standard grills, it delivers excellent value for those serious about outdoor cooking. Its build quality, durability, and advanced features more than justify the cost. For grilling enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with various cooking styles, this grill provides long-term value and performance that cheaper alternatives simply can't match.
Cooking Versatility: Beyond Grilling
The Kamado Joe Classic II is not just a grill; it's an outdoor cooking system. You can grill, bake, roast, and smoke, all with the same unit. I was particularly impressed with its baking capabilities, as it produced pizzas that rival those from wood-fired ovens. This versatility makes the Kamado Joe Classic II ideal for both quick weeknight meals and more elaborate weekend gatherings.
Managing the Learning Curve
The Kamado Joe Classic II offers many benefits, but it does come with a learning curve, especially for those new to Kamado-style cooking. Learning how to adjust the vents and maintain consistent temperatures takes a bit of practice. However, once you get the hang of it, using the grill becomes second nature. The learning process is also an enjoyable part of discovering the grill's full potential.
Fuel Efficiency and Exceptional Performance
One of the unexpected benefits of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its fuel efficiency. It uses less lump charcoal than standard grills, even for long smoking sessions. Whether cooking for a short period or smoking meat all day, the efficient design minimizes fuel consumption. The natural lump charcoal also enhances the flavor of the food, adding a rich, smoky taste to every dish.
Conclusion
The Kamado Joe Classic II is much more than a simple grill—it's a complete outdoor cooking system. Its durable construction, excellent heat retention, and thoughtful features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer Cooking System make it stand out from the competition. Whether you're grilling burgers, slow-smoking ribs, or even baking pizza, this ceramic grill handles it all with ease.
Although it’s an investment, the versatility and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it a worthwhile purchase for any serious outdoor cooking enthusiast. It has completely transformed my outdoor cooking experience and allowed me to explore new techniques that were impossible with my previous grill. If you’re looking for a high-quality, versatile grill that can handle everything from searing to smoking, the Kamado Joe Classic II should be at the top of your list.
FAQ
Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is made of high-quality, thick-walled ceramic for superior heat retention, with stainless steel components and cast iron elements for added durability.
Q: What are the key features of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The main features include the Kontrol Tower Top Vent, Divide & Conquer® Flexible Cooking System, Air Lift Hinge, AMP Firebox, Slide-Out Ash Drawer, and a built-in thermometer.
Q: How does the Kamado Joe Classic II compare to other Kamado grills?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out with features like the Air Lift Hinge and the Divide & Conquer system, offering more versatility and ease of use compared to other Kamado grills such as the Big Green Egg.
Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: It offers 406 square inches of cooking space, making it suitable for cooking for medium-sized groups.
Q: How long does it take to heat up?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II typically heats up in 10-15 minutes using lump charcoal, depending on the desired temperature and weather conditions.
Q: What type of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: The grill uses lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than traditional charcoal briquettes.
Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grilling experience?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the weight of the ceramic lid by 96%, making it easier and safer to open, especially during long cooking sessions.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II good for smoking?
A: Yes, it is excellent for smoking due to its superior heat retention and precise airflow control.
Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is made simple with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer, and a high-heat burn can be used to remove cooking residue from the ceramic interior.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, its ceramic body and durable materials make it weather-resistant, but using a cover is recommended for added protection.