Fire up the barbie: 9 best barbecues for an Aussie summer

Best for: Quick cooking

This much-loved model gets the family tick of approval for its speed of cooking and ability to cater to crowds whilst remaining an economic choice. It’s also highly regarded for roasting, so it’ll definitely continue to come in handy even after summer has long passed. Plus, this fire-engine red colour is to die for!

Key features:

• Additional burner expands your cooking possibilities bake, roast, grill, sear on high, and barbecue low and slow
• A sleek and functional cart included
• A large cooking area can grill up to 15 burgers at one time
• High domed lid for large roasting capacity
• Sturdy, fold-down side tables with tool hooks
• Front-facing grease tray to help make cleaning easy
• Limited 5-year warranty

Available at:

• $889 from The Good Guys
• $889 from BCF
• $783 from Appliances Online
• $799 from David Jones

Best for: Even cooking

As one of the most highly regarded barbecue brands in Australia, Beefeater does not disappoint with this easy-use portable BBQ. Featuring dual temperature control to allow for even cooking, a versatile plate grill, an integrated thermometer and a spring-assist hood, you’ll be jumping at the chance to host the next family gathering.

Key features:

• Heat control
• Extra large cooking surface
• Storage for condiments
• Customisable with functional accessories
• Smart wheel balance mechanism ensures extra stability

Available at:

• $801 from Appliances Online
• $799 from Designer Appliances

Best for: No wait time

The high dome roasting hood infuses flavours with a natural convection allowing for 360 degrees of circulation. You can start cooking in 5 minutes thanks to the two independently powered burners and the slender shape gives the BBQ a modern aesthetic.

Key features:

• nstant, powerful heat.
• Perfect for convection cooking.
• High hood with 360 degree circulation.
• Durable and easy to clean.
• Large cooking area.
• Fast ignition.
• Reaches 200 degrees in five minutes.
• Interchangeable cast iron flat plate and grill plate

Best for: Outdoor kitchens

For a non-portable, yet compact option, this BeefEater 1200 built-in barbecue makes a fine choice. Not only do the cast iron grill, large viewing window, built-in temperature gauge and warming tray make for an unmatched cooking experience, the design is ultra-sleek, and is sure to give your alfresco kitchen a lift.

Key features:

• 1200 Series 4 burner built In BBQ, black enamel
• spacious quality cast iron cooking surface
• large viewing window
• Designed to keep your food warm until you’re ready for it with roll out tray
• Start cooking quickly and easily with the quartz one press start. 

Best for: Portable BBQs

It wouldn’t be a BBQ round-up without multiple Weber models, would it? Large enough to feed 10 people, this small but mighty barbecue can cook your steaks and skewers in under 10 minutes – and is portable for family camping holidays.

Key features:

• Large cooking area can grill up to 12 burgers at one time
• High domed lid for large roasting capacity
• Front-facing grease tray to help make cleaning easy
• Front-facing control dial makes adjusting barbecue settings simple
• Limited 5 year warranty

Best for: Travelling

Another great option for all the nature and outdoor lovers out there, this Weber Traveler barbecue is sturdy and easily portable, yet features plenty of space to cook up a meal on its cast iron plate and grill. 

Key features:

• Limited 5 year warranty
• Built-in thermometer shows you exactly what temperature you’re cooking
• One-handed setup and fold away so you can get cooking or packed up in moments
• Main burner output of 13,000 BTU so you can sear steaks, grill chicken or cook veggies
• Heavy-duty weight of 28.141kg with large 2064 cm² grill can cook roughly 15 burgers or 30 sausages – enough for the whole crew
• Porcelain enamelled cast iron cooking grills evenly retain heat, resist rust, and make cleaning easy
• Built-in grease management system funnels debris and grease into a disposable drip tray

Best for: Portable

Ideal for weekend trips away, this portable Cuisinart grill with over 8500 five-star reviews on Amazon boasts affordability and simplicity in design. With ample cooking space, enamel-coating for strength and durability, a dual venting system, and an accessible ash tray, what more could you want?

Key features:

• Chrome plated grate
• Dual venting system
• Three secure lid locks
• Compact
• Enamel coated firebox and ash catcher

Best for: Lightweight

Created by celebrity chef, Heston Blumenthal, this barbecue is both experience and design-driven. Its simple, integrated accessories are easy to clean, lightweight and compact, making it perfect for picnics and camping. The lid doubles as a prep board and the unique in-built storage tray means you can carry your food along with ease. The design is also available in orange, stone and graphite.

Key features:

• Convenient
• Cooking safety
• Ergonomic design
• Compact
• Stylish

Best for: Easy and convenient cooking

A staple in the world of grilling, George Forman products have long been hailed as some of the best. This indoor-outdoor barbecue provides the ultimate versatility – even if you live in a balcony-less apartment, you can still enjoy the taste of barbecued food. The ceramic coated steel grill plate is non-stick coated, the stand is removable and the parts are dishwasher safe. It’s safe to say summer meals just got easier!

Key features:

• Dishwasher safe
• Cooks up to 15 serves
• High dome lid
• Removable drip tray
• Removable stand for benchtop cooking