Planning a summer kitchen in Central Florida is a journey with endless possibilities, occasional roadblocks, and more than a few pleasant surprises. With our years at GCM Best Services, we know first-hand how much thought goes into bringing an outdoor kitchen vision to life. In this guide, we want to walk you through the key considerations—from utilities and smart layouts to those safety details that are far too easy to overlook. Along the way, we’ll blend what we’ve learned on job sites across Orlando and neighboring cities, so you can approach your project with clarity (and maybe a little more enthusiasm).

Why plan a summer kitchen in the first place?

If you’ve ever struggled with carrying platters and supplies from the main kitchen to the patio, or wanted to host guests outdoors without missing half the conversation, then the appeal of a summer kitchen is obvious. In Florida, a thoughtfully designed outdoor kitchen can:

• Expand usable living space year-round
• Make entertaining easier, keeping traffic out of the main house
• Reduce indoor heat and odors from summer cooking
• Boost property value and curb appeal
• Create a hub for everyday family life

But when the excitement sets in, it’s easy to overlook some critical planning steps—especially those related to utilities, future needs, and safety. That’s why we always start projects with a step-by-step breakdown. You don’t need blueprints just yet, but it helps to think like a builder from day one.

First things first: Defining the purpose

Every grand backyard kitchen starts with a simple question: what do you want from the space? The answer shapes everything, from the amount of counter space to the complexity of your electrical runs. In our experience, most summer kitchens fall into one or more of these categories:

• Grill station: The classic setup focused on a quality grill, some counter space, and perhaps a trash pullout. Minimal appliances.
• Family meal hub: Includes cooking (grill and/or cooktop), food prep counters, refrigerator, and a sink. Think quick family breakfasts, evening barbecues, and weekend burgers.
• Entertainer’s dream: Features like bar seating, ice makers, wine coolers, weatherproof sound, and even pizza ovens come into play.
• Fully outfitted second kitchen: All the above, with extra space for smokers, extra burners, warming drawers, and sometimes even a dishwasher.

We suggest making a short list of must-haves and nice-to-haves before contacting contractors. This approach streamlines the entire conversation and helps with budgeting. If this seems overwhelming, at GCM Best Services we can walk you through the process—sometimes a walk around the yard with a tape measure and questions (about your cooking style, party size, even your favorite drink) is all it takes to spark your vision.

Assessing your space and choosing the best location

The right spot for your kitchen isn’t always the biggest or sunniest corner. To get it right, we look at:

• Proximity to the house: Closer often means easier utility connections and better comfort during Florida’s rainstorms. However, it can also lead to smoke near doors or windows.
• Wind and sun exposure: We take note of prevailing breezes, afternoon sun, and the shade provided by trees, screens, or patio covers. Nothing ruins outdoor cooking like relentless glare or continual gusts blowing smoke into guests’ faces.
• Drainage and surface: Every project at GCM Best Services starts with a check of the drainage plan. Flat patios can lead to puddles and slipping hazards, so we recommend minor slopes, drains, or permeable surfaces when possible.
• Flow of people: Think about the path from the house to the kitchen, traffic to seating and pool, and even where trash will end up. We’ve seen too many plans fall apart when the shortest route goes through the grill master’s feet.

We can help you analyze your yard’s layout by drawing basic sketches and considering not just what looks good, but what feels natural and convenient for your lifestyle.

Understanding the “bones”: Patio, foundation, and surfaces

No matter how advanced your appliances or elegant your finishes, a summer kitchen is only as good as what’s underfoot. In Central Florida, we face unique challenges—shifting soils, heavy rains, and root intrusion can all cause headaches down the road. Here’s how we usually approach the “bones” of a long-lasting outdoor kitchen:

1. Concrete slab or paver base?

For heavy installations, we nearly always recommend a 6–8″ compacted sub-base, with a slab of 3,000–4,000 PSI concrete, reinforced with rebar or mesh. This sort of base prevents settling, thanks to careful compaction and drainage design. In some cases—often with lighter modular kitchens or when matching existing hardscaping—pavers with edge restraints can work well, as long as the base is properly prepared and drainage is accounted for.

If you want to see examples of well-executed hardscape and concrete work, our hardscape projects and concrete services show the difference a stable base makes.

2. Surface finishes and maintenance

• Broom, exposed aggregate, or stamped concrete finishes are popular for blending durability with looks. Each type offers slip resistance and visual interest for different tastes.
• Pavers give more design flexibility, but require polymeric sand, edge restraints, and sometimes sealing to remain maintenance-friendly.
• Tile and natural stone look polished, but can be tricky outdoors in humid climates—always look for products rated for freeze/thaw, and make sure they’re set over a waterproof membrane if water intrusion is a concern.

We always recommend a sample board, just to check texture and color in your actual light.

Planning for utilities: Gas, water, electric, and drainage

Here’s where the rubber meets the road—or in our case, where the gas line meets the grill. Utilities are the lifeblood of every summer kitchen, but they’re also where most mistakes and overruns happen if you don’t plan ahead. Let’s break down what you’ll need and where the surprises usually hide.

Running gas lines safely

Whether you prefer a natural gas line or propane, the planning is similar. We look at:

• Distance from the house (the farther the run, the more plumbing/equipment is needed)
• BTU needs for all appliances (grill, side burner, pizza oven, even some fire pits rely on gas)
• Code requirements for trench depth, shutoff valves, and future access
• Ventilation—especially where appliances are built into cabinets

We always recommend using only licensed professionals for any gas fitting. If a line ever needs service—or if you swap out appliances in the future—safe, code-compliant installations are worth every penny and every delay they sometimes cause. It’s not paranoia. Outdoor kitchens mean exposure to weather, pests, and damage, so everything must be robust and clearly labeled.

Water supply and drainage

For a working sink, a cold water supply and a way to route greywater (sink runoff) safely away are needed. In some areas, this can connect to the household drain; in others, an indirect or dry-well setup is preferred. Some homeowners add instant hot taps, pot fillers, or even a small water heater for total convince. What we always remind people is:

Sinks aren’t just about plumbing—they’re about enjoying outdoor cooking without extra trips indoors.

If you include an ice maker or outdoor dishwasher (less common, but not unheard of for true kitchen enthusiasts), your drain plan must be even more robust.

The underestimated workhorse: Electrical planning

Modern summer kitchens demand much more than a single outlet. In our work across Orlando, we now install dedicated circuits for:

• Grills with rotisseries, electric smokers, and pizza ovens
• Refrigerators, wine coolers, ice machines
• Lighting, task and accent
• Outdoor-rated fans, heaters, and sound systems
• Convenience outlets for blenders, chargers, countertop appliances
• Sometimes, electric mosquito repellents or smart home devices

The National Electrical Code requires GFCI protection on all outdoor circuits, weatherproof boxes, and proper cable ratings for wet locations. We’ll just add: think about tomorrow’s needs, not just today’s. Running extra conduit “just in case” is almost always a wise move.

Experienced contractors (like us at GCM Best Services) will help manage permitting and inspection for all these trades, so your kitchen remains insurable and safe as codes evolve.

Designing a layout that works

An outdoor kitchen’s layout should feel natural, but there are guiding principles that prevent regrets down the line. Here’s how we approach layout design with our clients.

Zones and workflow: Think in stations

Outdoor kitchens work best when they mimic the most natural patterns of indoor kitchens:

• Cooking zone: Grill, cooktop, burners, and sometimes pizza ovens—ideally with ample counter space to each side.
• Prep zone: Counter space between cooking and sink, ideally positioned to allow two people to work together without crowding.
• Cleanup zone: Sink, trash, nearby dishwasher or compost setup.
• Cold zone: Refrigerator, wine/beer cooler, ice machine.
• Service zone: Bar seating, pass-throughs for serving, storage for utensils, and condiments.

The “kitchen work triangle” applies here, too—minimizing steps between the refrigerator, sink, and grill. If you’re designing around parties, we’ll usually add a bar or island to act as a boundary, giving guests a place to perch and drivers somewhere safe to prep drinks without elbowing the cook.

Space planning tips

• Leave a minimum of 36″ of counter space on one side of your grill/cooktop
• Walkways should be at least 42″ wide where more than one person may pass each other
• Keep utilities accessible, not buried deep in corners
• Position seating upwind from the grill (smoke always finds a way…)
• If adding a pergola or screen enclosure, make sure there’s plenty of headroom, and account for ceiling fans and lighting runs

Some of the best layouts we’ve built are simple, even a little spare—the temptation to add “just one more” feature can backfire. Focus on what you’ll use weekly, not what would look good for a one-time party.

Safety, codes, and the Florida climate

No matter how pretty a summer kitchen may look, we put safety above all else. Florida’s hurricanes, heavy lightning, and bugs present a mix of challenges—and a few unique code requirements. Let’s cover what you might be wondering about.

Fire, burns, and appliance placement

• Maintain at least 18″–24″ clearance from any combustibles (wood, siding, screens) around grills and cooktops.
• Never install grills under low eaves or unapproved coverings; always use vent hoods if operating in a semi-enclosed area.
• Install fire extinguishers (preferably multipurpose) in an easy-to-reach spot, far from direct heat
• Pull-out fire blankets or a bucket of sand can help with flare-ups that water would only spread
• Double-check child and pet safety—design for sightlines and traffic flow

Be realistic about weatherproofing: All outlets should be covered, and every appliance should be rated for outdoor use—even some “stainless” fridges and dishwashers are not, so double-check those product labels.

Wind, water, and hurricanes

• Anchor all cabinets, appliances, and patio features with hurricane-rated fasteners where needed. It’s not just the roof that can fly!
• If enclosing the kitchen with screens, upgrade hardware as required by wind-load codes—see our advice on screen enclosures for details
• Make all stonework and concrete slightly sloped, with multiple drains to prevent standing water
• Keep backup power in mind if you rely on refrigerators or ice makers for large events

When we manage permits for clients at GCM Best Services, we factor in not just current code, but future-proofing. Sometimes, a small upgrade (like larger conduits or backup anchors) saves thousands later.

Blending the kitchen with the landscape

No summer kitchen stands alone. In Central Florida, the “outdoor room” is often the heart of a bigger living area, set off with paths, lawns, pavers, and low lighting. Integrating your kitchen with hardscape and patio paving is core to our approach. Here’s how you can create a seamless experience:

• Add low-voltage LED path lights or under-counter Glow for night events
• Frame your kitchen with paver borders or decorative concrete bands (our hardscaping gallery is filled with ideas)
• Integrate artificial turf for play areas or pet runs that invite interaction, stay green, and drain quickly even after downpours—our guide to artificial turf gives more details
• Use planters and native plants to soften the edge, buffer heat, and add color
• Create a sense of “rooms” in the backyard with benches, firepits, screens, or water features

Some of our clients find these finishing touches make an outdoor kitchen something they use daily, not just for weekend cookouts.

Maintenance and longevity: Plan now, relax later

Outdoor kitchens live a tough life in the Florida climate. A few steps taken in the planning phase keep headaches away down the road:

• Choose only UV-stabilized surfaces and finishes, especially for countertops (engineered stone, poured concrete, or tile rated for outdoors)
• Apply sealers to concrete and pavers every year or two, and watch for shifting, especially after major storms
• Check all GFCI outlets after every lightning season, as ground faults sometimes trip quietly
• Keep drains and gutters free of leaves—water backup can damage cabinets or even undermine the foundation

We supply care guides and written warranties for every project, and we always offer advice on anything that feels uncertain. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a call or a quick visit.

Budgeting and the permit process

Budget is always where dreams meet reality, but smart planning keeps projects on track without large compromises. We advise our clients to factor in not just the cost of cabinets, grills, and finishes, but the trenching, permits, utility hookups, inspections, and possible HOA approvals. Permitting in Central Florida often takes two to four weeks for routine projects—allow extra time if you’re in a planned community.

• Work with licensed and insured contractors—this protects your warranty, resale value, and project schedule.
• Never skip permits; unpermitted work can get flagged on property records and can impact insurance claims.
• Ask for detailed, written estimates with clear allowances for change orders if you upgrade or alter the design midstream.

At GCM Best Services, our process begins with a no-cost site assessment, then a detailed written estimate before you commit. We help coordinate with HOAs and inspectors, so your kitchen passes code cleanly the first time.

What we’ve learned: Real advice from the field

The best summer kitchen is one you actually use—and keep using season after season. Based on years of feedback, our top practical suggestions are:

• Start with your habits. It’s fine if your “dream” turns out to be more about quick burgers and poolside snacks than five-course dinners.
• Sketch a plan, then “walk” it in your yard to spot awkward paths or cramped corners.
• Invest in quality “guts”—the slab, the utilities, the weatherproofing. You can always swap out appliances, but the infrastructure is forever.
• Include future flexibility; trends change, and today’s must-have gadget might become tomorrow’s storage problem.
• Appreciate small upgrades—soft-close hinges, deep sinks, a few more outlets—they’re often the difference between “nice to look at” and “a pleasure to use.”

Each backyard (and each family) is unique. Our role at GCM Best Services is to help draw out the best of your space, whether that means a simple grill and counter, or a destination kitchen for all your gatherings.

Thinking about your own project?

If you’ve got questions, big or small, our team is always just a message away. We’ve gathered ideas and inspiration from dozens of Central Florida backyards. Whether you want a quick phone consultation, a site visit, or just want to see real-life results, we’re here to help you make a summer kitchen that works for your needs and dreams.

See some of our recent projects in the hardscaping and concrete categories for more inspiration, and check our advice on integrating artificial turf for those functional, comfortable outdoor rooms.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a free estimate and hands-on planning session, and discover how GCM Best Services can help you bring your summer kitchen vision to life—the right way, from the ground up.