Kamado Joe Classic II Review

==>> It is currently in stock. Get it here from the best distributor

Upon receiving the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately impressed by the attention to detail in its packaging and the robust build of the grill itself. Weighing in at around 250 pounds, it became clear this was not a grill meant for frequent moving. However, once set up in my backyard, it was evident that this grill was built to last. The ceramic body gives off an air of durability, and the striking red color added a stylish pop to my outdoor space.

Not only does it combine the classic aesthetic of kamado-style grills with a modern touch, but its build quality and innovative features also make it a standout. This is much more than just a standard grill—it’s a complete outdoor cooking system.

Heat Retention and Temperature Control

One of the first things I noticed was how well the Kamado Joe Classic II manages heat. Thanks to its thick ceramic walls, the grill traps heat efficiently, outperforming many traditional metal grills. This heat retention makes it ideal for a range of cooking techniques, from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat searing.

The grill’s temperature control is made simple with the Kontrol Tower top vent and a bottom air vent. These vents allow for precise adjustments, ensuring stable temperatures regardless of whether I’m smoking at 225°F or searing at 600°F. As someone who enjoys experimenting with various cooking styles, having this level of control is crucial, and the Kamado Joe delivers in spades.

Divide & Conquer Cooking System: A Game-Changer

One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is the Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System. This innovative design allows for cooking on multiple levels with half-moon-shaped grates, enabling you to cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously.

This system has been especially useful for me when preparing meals for a group. I can sear steaks at high heat on one side while slow-cooking vegetables or toasting bread on the other. It’s a versatile setup that gives you flexibility and control that most grills can’t match.

The Air Lift Hinge: Making Life Easier

One of the biggest challenges with ceramic grills is their weight, especially when it comes to lifting the heavy lid. The Air Lift Hinge on the Kamado Joe Classic II makes this process virtually effortless. The spring-loaded hinge reduces the effort needed to lift the lid by 96%, making it easy to open and close the grill, even during extended cooking sessions at high heat. This not only makes the grill more user-friendly but also increases safety, as there’s less risk of the lid slamming shut.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Simple and Quick

Keeping the Kamado Joe Classic II clean is a relatively easy task. The ceramic surface doesn’t accumulate grease and grime like metal grills, and any residue can be burned off with a high-heat session. Another convenient feature is the Slide-Out Ash Drawer, which makes ash removal a breeze. In comparison to other grills I’ve owned, this one is much easier to maintain and doesn’t require excessive time or effort to keep in great condition.

Smoking Capabilities: Perfect for Low-and-Slow Cooking

One of the primary reasons I chose the Kamado Joe Classic II was for its smoking capabilities. I’m a big fan of slow-smoking meats like brisket and pork shoulder, and this grill is perfect for that style of cooking. Its ceramic body retains heat exceptionally well, and the use of natural lump charcoal along with heat deflectors creates an ideal environment for low-temperature smoking.

Over several months of use, I’ve smoked various meats, and the results have been consistently excellent. The grill holds a steady temperature for hours on end, making it easy to produce tender, flavorful smoked dishes.

Durability and Longevity: Built to Withstand the Elements

The Kamado Joe Classic II is designed to last. Its ceramic body is weather-resistant, and the high-quality metal components are built to withstand years of outdoor use. Even after several months of cooking in various weather conditions, including rain and wind, the grill shows no signs of rust or wear.

Paired with a good grill cover, I expect this grill to maintain its excellent condition for many years to come. The build quality is superior to many other grills I’ve used in the past, and it’s clear that Kamado Joe prioritized durability when designing this model.

Accessories and Extras: Expanding Its Versatility

Kamado Joe offers a wide range of accessories, further enhancing the versatility of the Classic II. I’ve personally tried the JoeTisserie attachment, which allowed me to make perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Other accessories like the pizza stone and rib rack are on my list to try, and I’m excited to explore even more possibilities with this grill.

These accessories add significant value, making the Kamado Joe Classic II not just a grill, but an all-in-one outdoor cooking tool that can handle everything from grilling to baking.

Price and Value: A Worthwhile Investment

Although the Kamado Joe Classic II is priced at a premium, it’s clear that this is an investment worth making for serious grillers. The advanced features, durability, and versatility justify the price, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives that lack the same build quality or functionality.

For anyone who enjoys experimenting with different cooking techniques or needs a reliable grill that can handle both weekday dinners and weekend feasts, this grill is a fantastic long-term investment.

Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill

One of the things that truly sets the Kamado Joe Classic II apart from other grills is its versatility. It’s not just a grill; it’s a complete outdoor cooking system. I’ve used it to grill burgers, slow-smoke brisket, and even bake pizza, with results that rival what I’ve achieved with specialized equipment.

The grill’s ability to handle a wide range of cooking techniques, from high-heat searing to low-and-slow smoking, makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m cooking a quick weeknight meal or preparing for a big family cookout, the Kamado Joe Classic II rises to the challenge.

Managing the Learning Curve

While the Kamado Joe Classic II offers a ton of benefits, it does come with a learning curve, especially for those new to kamado-style grilling. Learning to manage the vents and maintain consistent temperatures takes practice, but once you get the hang of it, the process becomes second nature. For me, mastering this learning curve was part of the fun, as it allowed me to explore the full potential of the grill.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance: A Standout Feature

One of the more surprising aspects of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its fuel efficiency. The design allows for longer cooking sessions with less charcoal, whether you’re doing a quick grill or an all-day smoke. The flavor produced by natural lump charcoal is unbeatable, and every dish I’ve made on the grill has had a rich, smoky taste that elevates the overall meal.

Conclusion

The Kamado Joe Classic II is more than just a grill—it’s an all-encompassing outdoor cooking system. Whether you’re grilling burgers, slow-smoking a brisket, or baking a pizza, this ceramic grill can do it all with ease. Its durable construction, excellent heat retention, and thoughtful features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system make it a top contender for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.

While it is an investment, the versatility, durability, and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it well worth the price. It has completely transformed my outdoor cooking experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a top-tier grill that can handle just about anything.

FAQ

Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is constructed from high-quality, thick-walled ceramic for superior heat retention, along with stainless steel components, heat-resistant fiberglass gaskets, and cast iron elements for added durability.

Q: What are the main features of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Key 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 for easy temperature monitoring.

Q: How does the Kamado Joe Classic II compare to other kamado grills?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out due to its Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system, offering greater flexibility and ease of use compared to other kamado grills like the Big Green Egg.

Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The Classic II offers 406 square inches of cooking space with the Divide & Conquer system, making it suitable for medium-sized groups.

Q: How long does it take to heat up?
A: It typically heats up in 10-15 minutes using lump charcoal, depending on the weather and desired temperature.

Q: What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II uses natural lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than traditional charcoal briquettes.

Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grill?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the weight of the ceramic lid by 96%, making it safer and easier to use, especially during long cooking sessions.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?
A: Absolutely. Its heat retention and airflow control make it ideal for low-and-slow smoking.

Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is easy thanks to the Slide-Out Ash Drawer. A high-heat burn also helps remove residue from the ceramic surface.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, the ceramic body and durable materials are weather-resistant, though a grill cover is recommended for extra protection.