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.
Upon receiving my Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately struck by its thoughtful packaging and the evident sturdiness of its design. Lifting it out of the box was a two-person job; at around 250 pounds, this grill is not something you’ll be moving frequently. However, once situated, it exudes a sense of permanence and quality. The vibrant red ceramic body is eye-catching, and it adds a stylish aesthetic to any outdoor space. With a sleek blend of traditional Kamado style and modern touches, the Kamado Joe Classic II is both visually impressive and engineered for durability.
Heat Retention and Temperature Control
The Kamado Joe Classic II truly excels in heat retention, outperforming most traditional grills on the market. Its thick ceramic walls trap heat effectively, allowing for consistent low-temperature cooking or high-heat searing. The advanced venting system, featuring the "Kontrol Tower" top vent and a bottom air vent, makes it easy to manage airflow precisely, helping to maintain stable cooking temperatures. Whether I was slow-smoking meat at a low 225°F or firing it up to a sizzling 600°F for a quick sear, controlling the heat was straightforward and responsive.
Divide & Conquer Cooking System
One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its innovative Divide & Conquer cooking system. This setup includes half-moon grates that can be positioned at different levels, allowing for multiple cooking temperatures simultaneously. I tested this by preparing a meal for a larger group, searing steaks at high heat on one side while slowly roasting vegetables on the other. The ability to cook at different temperatures all at once turned out to be an invaluable feature that streamlined my grilling process.
Air Lift Hinge: A User-Friendly Touch
The Kamado Joe Classic II’s Air Lift Hinge is a game-changer. Traditional kamado-style grills often have heavy ceramic lids, which can be challenging to lift. This spring-loaded hinge reduces the lid’s weight significantly, making it nearly effortless to open and close. This feature improves both usability and safety, especially during extended high-temperature cooking sessions when repeatedly lifting the lid could be cumbersome. The Air Lift Hinge offers a smooth experience, ensuring that handling the grill remains comfortable and manageable.
Cleaning and Maintenance Made Simple
Maintaining the Kamado Joe Classic II is refreshingly easy compared to many metal grills. The ceramic surface doesn’t trap grease and grime, making it more resistant to build-up. Typically, I found that any residue could be burned off during a high-heat cook, leaving the grill clean and ready for the next session. Additionally, the Slide-Out Ash Drawer simplifies ash removal, a feature I greatly appreciated. Instead of struggling with scooping out ash, a quick slide-out and disposal kept the grill clean with minimal effort.
Smoking Capabilities: A BBQ Enthusiast’s Dream
One of my main motivations for choosing the Kamado Joe Classic II was its excellent reputation for smoking. The grill’s design supports low-and-slow cooking, and its ceramic walls help maintain steady, low temperatures, ideal for smoking large cuts of meat. With natural lump charcoal and the addition of heat deflectors, I achieved a stable environment for smoking that rivaled dedicated smokers. The smoky flavor achieved with this setup is outstanding, making this grill a top pick for barbecue enthusiasts who appreciate well-smoked meats.
Built for Durability and Longevity
After several months of use, I’m convinced that the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last. Its ceramic body is weather-resistant, and high-quality metal components add to its durability. Despite exposure to varying weather conditions, I have not seen signs of rust or wear. Paired with a grill cover, I expect this grill to maintain its pristine condition for years to come. For anyone looking for a reliable long-term investment, the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to handle the elements and frequent use with ease.
Accessories and Extras: Expanding Functionality
Kamado Joe offers a range of accessories for the Classic II, each adding a new layer of versatility. I tested the JoeTisserie attachment, which produced a beautifully roasted chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Additional accessories, such as the pizza stone and rib rack, allow for a wide array of cooking methods beyond traditional grilling. These extras make the Kamado Joe Classic II a highly versatile outdoor cooking tool, capable of much more than grilling alone.
Price and Value: Is It Worth the Investment?
Though priced at a premium, the Kamado Joe Classic II offers significant value for those who take outdoor cooking seriously. With its advanced features, robust build quality, and range of cooking options, the investment is worthwhile. While cheaper grills might suffice for basic grilling, the Kamado Joe Classic II’s superior materials and functionality set it apart. For cooking enthusiasts eager to explore different grilling techniques and achieve restaurant-quality results, this grill provides long-term value and an enhanced cooking experience.
Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic II extends beyond grilling; it serves as a multi-functional outdoor cooking appliance. I was particularly impressed with its baking capabilities, achieving results comparable to a wood-fired oven. From baking artisan bread to roasting vegetables, the grill adapts easily to various cooking methods. This versatility is ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and elaborate weekend gatherings, making it a perfect addition for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen.
Navigating the Learning Curve
While the Kamado Joe Classic II offers numerous benefits, it does come with a learning curve, especially for those new to kamado-style grills. Mastering the vent adjustments and maintaining consistent temperatures takes some practice, but it’s worth the effort. After a few tries, the vent system became intuitive, allowing me to enjoy the cooking process fully. This learning phase is part of the fun, transforming grilling from a task into an art.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
Another impressive aspect of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its fuel efficiency. Using less charcoal than traditional grills, it delivers excellent flavor and performance without excessive fuel consumption. Even during all-day smoking sessions, the grill’s efficient design keeps charcoal usage to a minimum, adding to its value. The natural lump charcoal enhances the flavor, giving every dish a rich, smoky profile that’s hard to replicate with other grills.
Conclusion
The Kamado Joe Classic II is much more than a standard grill; it’s a full outdoor cooking system capable of grilling, smoking, baking, and more. From its durable construction and innovative features, like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer cooking system, to its excellent heat retention and fuel efficiency, this grill stands out in every way.
While it represents a substantial investment, the Kamado Joe Classic II’s performance and versatility make it a worthwhile choice for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. It has transformed my grilling experience, allowing me to explore new techniques and achieve results I couldn’t with a standard grill. If you’re in search of a top-tier grill that can handle everything from a quick sear to a long smoke, the Kamado Joe Classic II deserves your consideration.
FAQ
Q: What materials is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is crafted from high-quality, thick-walled ceramic for superior heat retention. It also includes stainless steel components, heat-resistant fiberglass gaskets, and cast iron elements, contributing to its durability.
Q: What are the key 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 temperature monitoring.
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 Divide & Conquer system, offering enhanced flexibility and ease of use compared to other models such as the Big Green Egg.
Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: It provides 406 square inches of cooking space with the Divide & Conquer system, suitable for cooking for medium-sized gatherings.
Q: How long does it take for the Kamado Joe Classic II to heat up?
A: Generally, it reaches the desired temperature within 10-15 minutes when using lump charcoal, depending on the ambient temperature and target heat level.
Q: What fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: It uses lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes, enhancing the flavor of the food.
Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the ceramic lid’s weight by 96%, making it easier and safer to lift, particularly during long cooking sessions.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?
A: Yes, it’s excellent for smoking due to its heat retention and precise airflow control, allowing for consistent low-temperature cooking.
Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is easy with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer for quick ash removal. A high-temperature burn can remove most residue, making maintenance minimal.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, its ceramic body and durable components are weather-resistant, although using a cover is recommended for added protection.