In a climate where you can grill most of the year, an outdoor kitchen makes the backyard an everyday living space. Stone-clad islands, bars and counters give outdoor kitchens a solid, permanent look that holds up to sun and weather.
Outdoor kitchens bring together masonry, gas, electrical, plumbing and appliances. The masonry work forms the structure and finish that everything else fits into.
Outdoor kitchen masonry is the construction of the islands, counters, bars and walls that house grills and appliances. Structures are commonly built from concrete block or steel framing with cement board, then finished with stone veneer and topped with stone, concrete or tile counters.
Good outdoor kitchen design accounts for appliance cut-outs, ventilation for gas appliances, access panels and drainage of the countertop surface.
If you are comparing options, see our guides to manufactured stone veneer installation.
Stone makes outdoor kitchens durable and attractive.
Block and stone hold up to sun and moisture better than wood cabinets.
The island can match your patio, fireplace or house stone.
Bar-height counters and seating create a natural gathering spot.
A built-in kitchen makes the yard a true outdoor room.
Typical material combinations include:
Common elements built with masonry:
BBQ grill islands
Raised bar counters with seating
Pizza oven bases and surrounds
Outdoor sink and prep stations
Refrigerator and storage cut-outs
Integration with outdoor fireplaces and patios
Planning appliances first prevents costly changes later.
Appliances are chosen first so cut-out sizes, ventilation and utility locations are known.
A slab or footing is placed and gas, electrical and plumbing are roughed in by licensed trades.
Block or framed structures are built with openings for appliances and access doors.
Stone veneer is applied, countertops are installed and appliances are set.
Outdoor kitchen costs vary widely with features:
Size and layout. L-shapes, bars and multiple islands increase masonry work.
Appliances. Grills, side burners, refrigerators and ovens are often the largest line items.
Utilities. Running gas, power and water to the kitchen location adds trade work.
Stone and countertop choice. Natural stone veneer and premium counters cost more.
Covers and lighting. Pergolas, shade structures and lighting are additional.
Every project is quoted after a site visit or detailed photos. East West Stone does not set contractor pricing.
These are published national-average installed costs from independent cost guides, not prices set by East West Stone or any contractor. Use them to sanity-check quotes; your actual price depends on the factors above and on local labor rates in San Diego County.
| Work | Typical range | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor kitchen, typical rangeNational average $13,180 (about $495 per linear foot). | $5,060 – $17,280 | per project | [1] |
| Custom-built island frameWood or aluminum averages about $400, steel about $550. | $320 – $670 | per linear foot | [1] |
| Manufactured stone cladding for island cabinetry (material)Cladding material cost only. | $15 – $25 | per sq ft | [1] |
| Natural stone cladding for island cabinetry (material)Cladding material cost only. | $20 – $40 | per sq ft | [1] |
What these ranges assume: basic mid-range work by experienced professionals in readily accessible conditions, with materials and delivery included. They exclude sales tax, permits and inspections, removal or repair of existing structures, and general contractor overhead, which the sources suggest adds 13% to 22% when a general contractor supervises. Appliances, countertops, gas, electrical and plumbing are usually the largest additional line items.
Sources (checked October 2026):
Gas lines, electrical circuits, plumbing and covered structures often require permits. Requirements vary by city.
Dense natural stones such as granite and some quartzites perform well. Light colors stay cooler in the sun. Avoid materials not rated for outdoor UV exposure.
Vents allow leaked gas to escape rather than collect inside the island. Follow the grill manufacturer's requirements.
Yes, many outdoor rooms include both. See our outdoor fireplace page for fireplace options.
Example photos illustrate the type of work; they are not presented as East West Stone projects. Browse the full project gallery.
Lightweight cast stone with consistent sizes for budget-friendly projects.
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