Charcoal Barbecues
Commercial charcoal BBQs are the beating heart of outdoor catering and restaurant terraces across the UK. These robust, heavy-duty grills deliver that unmistakable smoky flavour that gas simply can't match—perfect for establishments looking to elevate their menu with authentic barbecue offerings. Purpose-built for professional use, they feature durable stainless steel construction that withstands the intense heat and daily demands of busy kitchens. Whether you're running a bustling street food stall, a seaside restaurant, or providing outdoor catering services, these professional-grade charcoal grills offer the capacity and performance to handle high-volume cooking with impressive consistency. They pair brilliantly with outdoor refrigeration units and food preparation tables for a complete alfresco cooking setup.
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Natural Restaurant Charcoal | Premium Cooking Charcoal | 12kg Bag | Big K DC868
In Stock
650H x 430W x 180D mm
Big K
FSC certified from sustainable sources
Easy to light and ready to cook within 30 minutes
£31.99 £67.77
Commercial Charcoal BBQs for Restaurants & Outdoor Catering
Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals
Key Features and Benefits
- Superior Heat Distribution Even cooking temperatures across the entire grill surface—no more burnt edges or raw centres.
- Adjustable Grill Heights Multiple cooking levels for perfect temperature control without adjusting the fire.
- Heavy-Duty Construction Robust steel builds withstand extreme temperatures and years of commercial use.
- Large Cooking Area Spacious grilling surfaces handle multiple orders simultaneously—perfect for busy periods.
- Windshields & Covers Protective elements maintain consistent cooking temperatures in variable British weather.
- Versatile Cooking Options Grill, smoke, or slow-cook with a single piece of equipment—menu versatility sorted.
- Efficient Ash Management Easy-clean collection systems make maintenance quick and straightforward.
- Authentic Flavour Development Creates that distinctive smoky taste customers crave—a true menu differentiator.
Essential Buying Considerations
Size and Capacity
- Match cooking surface to expected volume—aim for 50cm width per 20-30 covers.
- Consider kitchen or outdoor space limitations before committing to larger models.
- Multi-tiered grills maximize cooking area in smaller footprints—ideal for tight spaces.
Material and Durability
- Professional-grade stainless steel offers the best durability—withstands intense heat cycles.
- Look for robust wheels and stands if mobility between storage and cooking areas is needed.
- Consider weather covers for outdoor permanent installations to extend equipment life.
How Commercial Charcoal BBQs Work
Commercial charcoal BBQs operate on a beautifully simple yet effective principle. The magic starts with a fire chamber where charcoal is loaded and ignited, creating the perfect cooking heat. Most professional models feature adjustable grill heights that allow chefs to control cooking temperatures without faffing about with the fire itself—simply raise food further from the coals for gentler heat or lower it for a proper sear. Air vents at the bottom and top regulate oxygen flow, letting you control the burn rate and temperature with surprising precision. The best commercial grills include features like ash collection systems and wind guards, making them significantly more efficient and controllable than domestic counterparts. Within 20-30 minutes of lighting, you'll have a cooking surface ready to handle everything from delicate fish to robust steaks!
Trusted Insights from Oliver Bennett
Commercial Catering Equipment Specialist
12+ years experience
"Charcoal BBQs bring unbeatable flavour, but they need the right setup to keep service smooth—go for models with adjustable grills and ash drawers to save time and stress during peak hours."
Safety Guidelines
- Fire Safety Keep appropriate extinguishers nearby—never use water on grease fires.
- Heat Protection Provide heat-resistant gloves—prevents nasty burns.
- Proper Ventilation Ensure adequate airflow—prevents carbon monoxide buildup.
- Safe Distances Position away from walls and combustibles—maintains fire safety.
- Cool Down Period Allow complete cooling before cleaning—prevents accidents.
- Regular Inspection Check for damage before each use—ensures operational safety.
Top Tips for Using Commercial Charcoal BBQs
For BBQ brilliance, start with quality lumpwood charcoal rather than briquettes—it lights faster and imparts cleaner flavour. Create different heat zones across your grill; high heat for searing, medium for cooking through, and low for resting or slow cooking. Keep a spray bottle of water handy for flare-up management rather than dousing the entire grill. Clean the cooking grates while still warm with a proper grill brush, and invest in quality BBQ tools like long tongs and heavy-duty spatulas to protect staff from heat exposure.
Benefits of Using Commercial Charcoal BBQs
- Superior Flavour Profile Creates distinctive smoky taste that customers will queue for.
- Customer Appeal Open-flame cooking creates theatre that draws crowds.
- Menu Premium Justifies higher price points for authentic charcoal-grilled dishes.
Did You Know?
- Heat Intensity Professional charcoal BBQs reach temperatures of 350°C—50% hotter than domestic models.
- Durability Quality commercial grills last 10+ years in professional settings.
- History Charcoal cooking dates back 30,000 years—oldest cooking method still used professionally.
- Return on Investment Can increase outdoor menu sales by up to 30% during summer months.
Expert Insights on Commercial Charcoal BBQs
After 50 years supplying commercial kitchens, we've seen charcoal BBQs evolve tremendously. 'The difference between a proper commercial grill and a standard one is night and day,' explains Tom, our BBQ specialist. 'The temperature control and cooking consistency you get from a professional model transforms what you can offer customers.'
- Pros: Unmatched flavour, impressive temperature range, and built to last decades.
- Cons: Requires more skill than gas alternatives and needs proper ventilation planning.
Who Needs Commercial Charcoal BBQs?
- Restaurants Perfect for terraces and garden spaces—expands your menu offerings.
- Catering Companies Essential for outdoor events and weddings—creates memorable dining experiences.
- Street Food Vendors Gives authentic flavour that sets you apart from competitors.
- Hotels Ideal for summer events and regular outdoor dining service.
Real-World Success with Commercial Charcoal BBQs
The Smokehouse in Brighton transformed their summer business with one of our heavy-duty charcoal BBQs. Before, they struggled with inconsistent results from a domestic-grade grill that couldn't handle volume. 'We invested in a proper commercial charcoal BBQ paired with an outdoor prep station, and it's been a game-changer,' says owner Mike. 'We now run weekend BBQ events that sell out weekly—summer revenue is up 40% year on year, and customers actually book ahead for our charcoal-grilled specials!'
FAQs
- What type of charcoal is best for commercial BBQs? Restaurant-grade lumpwood charcoal burns hotter and cleaner—ideal for professional use.
- How long do commercial charcoal BBQs last? Quality stainless steel models typically last 8-12 years with proper maintenance.
- Can these be used indoors? No—commercial charcoal BBQs need professional outdoor ventilation systems.
- How often should I clean a commercial BBQ? Grates daily, full deep clean weekly—maintains food safety standards.
- Do I need planning permission for commercial outdoor cooking? Often yes—check local council regulations regarding commercial food smoke.
- How much charcoal will I use per service? Typically 3-5kg for a 4-hour service—varies with grill size and cooking intensity.
Looking for Equipment by Business Type?
Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.
Other Categories You Might Find Useful
We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.
What our Customers Say
'Best investment we've made—our summer BBQ nights are now the talk of the town!'
L Laura Pub Owner, Yorkshire Dales'Rock-solid build quality that's handled three seasons of non-stop weekend use.'
D Daniel Head Chef, Beachside Restaurant, Cornwall
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Charcoal BBQs?
- Industry Experience 50 years supplying top kitchens—we know what chefs need.
- Nationwide Delivery Fast shipping across the UK—get cooking quickly.
- Price Commitment Best value guaranteed—we'll match competitors.
- Expert Support Real BBQ specialists on hand—helpful advice guaranteed.
Ready to Explore Commercial Charcoal BBQs?
Discover our range of professional charcoal BBQs designed for restaurants and catering businesses. With exclusive trade deals, expert advice, and next-day delivery options, there's never been a better time to elevate your outdoor cooking game!
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