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.
As an avid backyard chef, I’ve cooked on my fair share of grills. From gas to charcoal, and even pellet smokers, each type has its strengths and weaknesses. But when I got my hands on the Kamado Joe Classic II, I realized that this grill isn’t just another tool for cooking—it’s a game-changer for anyone who takes outdoor cooking seriously.
In this review, I’ll dive into the features, benefits, and real-world performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II, sharing my personal experience along the way. Whether you’re a barbecue beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, this is a grill that deserves your attention.
Why I Chose the Kamado Joe Classic II
When shopping for a Kamado grill, the options can be overwhelming. Popular brands like the Big Green Egg dominate the market, but the Kamado Joe Classic II caught my eye because it came loaded with thoughtful features.
I didn’t want to spend extra money on accessories or struggle with common Kamado pain points like lid weight or cleanup hassles. The Kamado Joe Classic II seemed to address these concerns while also providing great versatility. Its reputation for consistent performance and user-friendly design sealed the deal for me.
What Can You Cook on the Kamado Joe Classic II?
One of the things I love most about this grill is how versatile it is. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, baking, or roasting, the Kamado Joe Classic II handles it all like a pro. Here are just a few dishes I’ve made so far:
Grilled Steaks
The high heat capabilities of the Kamado Joe made grilling steaks a breeze. I was able to achieve a perfect sear with those beautiful, restaurant-quality grill marks.
Low-and-Slow Smoked Ribs
Smoking ribs was where this grill truly shined. With its ability to hold a steady low temperature for hours, my ribs came out tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor.
Artisan Pizza
Baking pizza was another highlight. Using a pizza stone, the Kamado Joe turned out crispy crusts with melty toppings in just minutes. It felt like having a wood-fired oven right in my backyard.
Roasted Chicken
Thanks to the excellent heat retention and even distribution, my roast chicken had perfectly crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat.
Exploring the Features of the Kamado Joe Classic II
Divide & Conquer Cooking System
This is hands-down my favorite feature. The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System allows you to set up different heat zones within the grill. For instance, I’ve used it to cook veggies at a lower temperature on one side while searing a steak on the other. The ability to customize my cooking surface makes it feel like I have two grills in one.
Gasket and Lid Design
The Kamado Joe Classic II features a wire mesh fiberglass gasket that ensures an airtight seal. Not only does this help with temperature control, but it also extends the lifespan of the gasket compared to the felt gaskets found on other Kamado grills.
The lid itself has an Air Lift Hinge, which significantly reduces the weight of lifting. I’ve used Kamado grills before where the lid was cumbersome to open, but with this hinge, I can lift it effortlessly with just one hand.
Maintaining and Cleaning the Kamado Joe Classic II
No one likes cleaning their grill, but the Kamado Joe Classic II makes the process less painful. The slide-out ash drawer is a standout feature. After a long cook, all I had to do was slide the drawer out, dump the ash, and I was good to go.
The ceramic body is also easy to wipe down. A damp cloth removes any grease or stains, keeping the grill looking brand new. Over time, I’ve noticed that the grill holds up incredibly well, showing minimal signs of wear despite regular use.
Kamado Joe Classic II vs. Other Kamado Grills
Big Green Egg
While the Big Green Egg is a well-known competitor, the Kamado Joe Classic II offers more features at a similar price point. The included Divide & Conquer system, ash drawer, and Air Lift Hinge are upgrades you’d have to pay extra for with the Big Green Egg.
Budget Kamado Grills
I’ve tried budget-friendly Kamado grills in the past, but they often sacrifice build quality and performance. The Kamado Joe Classic II is an investment, but the durability and features make it worth the cost. It’s a grill that will last for years, and you won’t need to spend extra on essential accessories.
How to Master the Kamado Joe Classic II
While the Kamado Joe Classic II is user-friendly, there’s still a bit of a learning curve if you’re new to Kamado grills. Here’s what helped me get the most out of my grill:
- Start with Easy Recipes: Grilled chicken or burgers are great beginner recipes. They help you learn how to control the temperature without the pressure of a long cook.
- Use Lump Charcoal: Avoid briquettes, as they don’t burn as cleanly or reach the same high temperatures as lump charcoal.
- Experiment with Smoking Woods: Adding chunks of hickory, applewood, or mesquite to your charcoal can elevate your dishes with unique smoky flavors.
- Invest in a Good Thermometer: While the built-in thermometer is handy, a separate digital meat thermometer ensures your food is cooked perfectly every time.
Durability in All Weather Conditions
Living in an area with unpredictable weather, I was curious to see how the Kamado Joe Classic II would handle the elements. Even during rain and cold temperatures, it maintained consistent heat. Its ceramic body is built to withstand extreme conditions, making it a reliable year-round grill.
To protect my investment, I also purchased a Kamado Joe grill cover. It’s well worth the extra cost to ensure the grill stays in pristine condition, even when not in use.
The Perfect Grill for Entertaining
One of my favorite aspects of the Kamado Joe Classic II is how it transforms outdoor gatherings. When friends and family come over, this grill becomes the centerpiece of the party. The two-tier cooking system allows me to prepare multiple dishes at once, and its impressive appearance always sparks conversations.
From hosting summer cookouts to preparing holiday feasts, the Kamado Joe Classic II has become my go-to for entertaining. The consistent results it delivers have made me more confident as a cook, and I’ve loved experimenting with new recipes to impress my guests.
Product Review Conclusion: Kamado Joe Classic II Review
In my experience, the Kamado Joe Classic II strikes the perfect balance between functionality, durability, and performance. It’s a grill that caters to beginners while still offering advanced features that seasoned grillers will appreciate. The ability to grill, smoke, bake, and roast on a single device makes it an incredibly versatile addition to any outdoor kitchen.
While the price may seem steep, the Kamado Joe Classic II more than justifies the investment. Its thoughtful design, innovative features, and excellent cooking results make it a standout choice for anyone who takes their grilling seriously. If you’re in the market for a Kamado grill, the Kamado Joe Classic II is a top contender that’s well worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Kamado Joe Classic II
Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is made of high-quality ceramic, which ensures excellent heat retention and distribution. The ceramic body is complemented by heavy-duty metal components and a fiberglass gasket for a reliable seal.
Q: How does the Divide & Conquer system work?
A: The Divide & Conquer system is a flexible cooking platform that allows you to set up multiple cooking zones within the grill. This means you can cook at different temperatures simultaneously, making it perfect for grilling, smoking, or baking.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II easy to assemble?
A: Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is relatively easy to assemble. While it’s a bit heavy (over 200 pounds), the process is straightforward, and most of the key components, like the top vent and hinge, come pre-installed. The manual is clear and helps guide you through the setup.
Q: Can I use the Kamado Joe Classic II for smoking?
A: Absolutely! The Kamado Joe Classic II excels at smoking low-and-slow. Thanks to its ability to hold steady low temperatures for hours, it’s perfect for smoking meats, fish, or even vegetables. You can add wood chunks to enhance the smoky flavor.
Q: How much charcoal does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is quite efficient with charcoal. Depending on the cooking temperature and duration, you might use about 1-2 pounds of lump charcoal for an hour of grilling. Since it retains heat so well, you can often reuse leftover charcoal for your next cook.
Q: Does the Kamado Joe Classic II come with a cover?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II does not come with a cover, but you can purchase one separately. Kamado Joe offers custom-fit covers that protect the grill from the elements, extending its lifespan and keeping it looking great.
Q: How heavy is the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II weighs around 205 pounds. While it’s heavy, it comes with a sturdy cart with locking wheels, making it easier to move around your patio or backyard when needed.
Q: Can I use the Kamado Joe Classic II in cold weather?
A: Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to perform in all weather conditions. Its thick ceramic construction helps retain heat even in colder temperatures, making it suitable for year-round use. However, like any grill, you might need to make adjustments to maintain temperature in extreme cold.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II difficult to clean?
A: Not at all. The Kamado Joe Classic II has an easy-to-use slide-out ash drawer, making cleanup a breeze. The ceramic body is also easy to wipe down, and the grill’s built-in components are designed to minimize grease and debris buildup.
Q: Can I bake pizza in the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is excellent for baking pizza. The high heat retention and even heat distribution make it ideal for creating crispy, restaurant-quality pizzas with a wood-fired flavor. You can purchase a pizza stone to help with the process for the best results.
Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grilling experience?
A: The Air Lift Hinge makes lifting the heavy ceramic lid easy. With this feature, you can open and close the lid with just one hand, making the grilling experience more comfortable and reducing strain on your wrists and arms.
Q: What accessories are included with the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II comes with several accessories, including the Divide & Conquer cooking system, a cast iron top vent, a built-in thermometer, and a slide-out ash drawer. Additional accessories, such as a pizza stone or grill cover, can be purchased separately.