Outdoor dining has exploded in popularity everywhere over the past year. It’s no surprise that open-air meals are a hit in Central Oregon, where the outdoors is an important part of many people’s lives. Bringing the concept of outdoor dining to our own homes is a no-brainer. But let’s not leave the chef stuck in the kitchen inside, or limit ourselves to just the grill outdoors. Today’s outdoor kitchens provide convenience for backyard entertaining and meal-prep, easy-access refrigerators for cold drinks and snacks, storage space for essentials and a fun gathering place for outdoor get-togethers. (Above photo by Paula Watts)
Cook with a View
Bring the kitchen outdoors to maximize the mountain views of Central Oregon. Florida transplants who arrived in Bend in 2016 added this outdoor kitchen as part of the original construction of their home along the Deschutes River in southwest Bend.
Photo by Darius Kuzmicka
Veranda Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens don’t have to be exposed to all the elements but can instead take shape on a fully covered porch area. This Oregon outdoor kitchen combines sleek (and easy to wipe down) stainless steel with wood flooring and stone accents. It’s a protected kitchen oasis in the trees, warmed by a crackling fire on cool evenings.
Beverages Nearby
Choose a small refrigerator or refrigerated drawers specifically designed for outdoor spaces, which have much more significant temperature swings than indoor kitchens. Use these cool storage spaces for easy access to happy hour drinks, snacks, outdoor dining condiments and more.
◄ Kitchen Nook
This Central Oregon home features a sheltered space close to the house with an outdoor kitchen and dining area, offering open-air meals with some protection from the elements.
