Kamado Joe Classic II Review

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Upon receiving the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately impressed by the care taken in the packaging and the overall sturdiness of the grill itself. Unpacking this beast, which weighs in at around 250 pounds, required some effort, but it was clear from the outset that the weight signified quality. This is not a grill you’ll be moving around often, but once set up, it’s easy to see why this grill is built to stay put—it’s a permanent addition to any outdoor cooking space. The ceramic body exudes durability, and the striking red color adds a vibrant touch to my backyard. With a sleek design that merges the best of traditional kamado-style aesthetics with innovative modern features, the Kamado Joe Classic II is both functional and visually stunning.

Heat Retention and Temperature Control

One of the first things I noticed about the Kamado Joe Classic II was its incredible ability to retain heat. Unlike traditional metal grills, the thick ceramic walls of the Classic II excel at locking in heat, making it highly effective for both low-temperature cooking and high-heat searing. Once the grill is up to temperature, the heat remains stable, even during long cooking sessions. The venting system on this grill—featuring the "Kontrol Tower" top vent and a bottom air vent—offers precise temperature control, whether I’m smoking at a low 225°F or searing steaks at a blistering 600°F.

The dual venting system provides easy, repeatable adjustments to maintain a steady cooking temperature. The Kontrol Tower top vent, in particular, allows for consistent airflow even during windy conditions, making it easier to manage longer smoking sessions. This made my first attempts at slow-smoking brisket far less stressful than I anticipated, as I could dial in a steady temperature and rely on the grill to hold it for hours on end.

Divide & Conquer Cooking System

The Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System is one of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II. This innovative system includes half-moon grates that can be positioned at different levels, allowing for simultaneous multi-zone cooking. When cooking for my family or entertaining guests, I found this feature to be invaluable. I could sear steaks on one side of the grill at a higher temperature while gently roasting vegetables on the lower tier, all at the same time.

The versatility provided by the Divide & Conquer system opened up a world of possibilities that simply aren’t achievable with conventional grills. I was able to make entire meals on the Kamado Joe without juggling multiple cooking appliances, which kept me enjoying my company instead of constantly tending to different heat sources. Cooking multiple dishes at once, all at different temperatures, added so much convenience to my outdoor cooking experience.

Air Lift Hinge: Game-Changer in Usability

One of the first things I appreciated about the Kamado Joe Classic II after assembling it was the Air Lift Hinge. The heavy ceramic lid typical of kamado-style grills can be cumbersome, making it a challenge to open and close frequently during cooking. However, the Kamado Joe addresses this issue head-on with the spring-loaded Air Lift Hinge, which makes opening the lid a near-effortless task.

The hinge reduces the effective weight of the lid by 96%, which means you can lift it with just one finger. Not only does this make the grill easier to use during long cooks, but it also makes it much safer, eliminating the risk of accidentally dropping the heavy ceramic lid. It’s one of those features that, once experienced, feels essential—I can’t imagine going back to a kamado-style grill without it.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Grill maintenance is a breeze with the Kamado Joe Classic II. The ceramic surface resists grease and grime buildup better than metal grills, which means most residue can be burnt off during a high-temperature session. Cleaning the grill is also simplified by the Slide-Out Ash Drawer, which makes removing the accumulated ash quick and easy.

This feature sets the Kamado Joe apart from other ceramic grills that require you to scoop ash out manually. With the Slide-Out Ash Drawer, I’m able to keep the grill clean and ready for the next cook with minimal hassle. The stainless-steel cooking grates are also easy to clean, needing just a quick brush while still hot. With these features, maintaining this grill has proven to be a relatively painless process.

Smoking Capabilities

One of my primary motivations for choosing the Kamado Joe Classic II was to explore smoking meats, and I have to say it excels in this area. The grill is exceptionally well-suited for low-and-slow cooking, thanks to its thick ceramic walls that help maintain a steady, low temperature over extended periods.

Using natural lump charcoal combined with the included heat deflectors, the Kamado Joe creates an ideal environment for smoking large cuts of meat. I’ve smoked pork shoulder, brisket, and even ribs—all with mouthwatering results. The smoke flavor achieved is outstanding, and the steady heat means I don’t have to constantly check and adjust the grill, allowing me to enjoy the process rather than stressing over temperature swings.

Durability and Longevity

The build quality of the Kamado Joe Classic II is another major selling point. Its thick, weather-resistant ceramic body and high-quality metal components are built to withstand years of use. I’ve left my grill outside through rain and shine (though always covered), and so far, it shows no signs of wear or rust. The high-temperature gaskets are made of fiberglass, ensuring they won’t deteriorate quickly, unlike some other grill models.

This durability gives me peace of mind that the investment I’ve made in this grill will pay off in the long run. Whether it’s a harsh winter or a rainy summer, the Kamado Joe is designed to endure, which adds tremendous value for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

Accessories and Extras

Kamado Joe provides a wide range of accessories that expand the cooking potential of the Classic II. One of my favorite accessories so far has been the JoeTisserie, a rotisserie attachment that works seamlessly with the Classic II. Using the JoeTisserie, I was able to make the best rotisserie chicken I’ve ever cooked—crisp, golden skin with moist, juicy meat.

Other accessories like the pizza stone and rib rack add to the versatility of this grill. With the pizza stone, I managed to bake pizzas that rival those from a wood-fired oven. The accessories are well-made and integrate smoothly with the existing components of the grill, allowing me to experiment with different cooking styles and expand my culinary skills.

Price and Value

There’s no denying that the Kamado Joe Classic II is a premium product. However, for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts, it’s worth every penny. Compared to other kamado-style grills, such as the Big Green Egg, the Kamado Joe Classic II offers better features, such as the Air Lift Hinge and the Divide & Conquer system, which make the cooking experience more enjoyable and less cumbersome.

The quality of construction, thoughtful design elements, and versatility more than justify the investment. This grill allows you to experiment with a wide variety of cooking techniques, from grilling and smoking to baking and roasting, all while delivering exceptional flavor. For anyone passionate about outdoor cooking, the Kamado Joe Classic II provides long-term value that cheaper alternatives just can’t match.

Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill

The Kamado Joe Classic II is not just a grill; it’s a complete outdoor cooking system. Whether I’m grilling burgers, slow-smoking a brisket, or baking a pizza, the Classic II handles it all with ease. I’ve even experimented with baking bread, and the results were fantastic—comparable to what you’d get from a wood-fired oven.

The versatility of this grill means I can cook virtually anything without needing multiple cooking devices. The ability to bake, roast, sear, and smoke makes the Kamado Joe Classic II a valuable asset, whether I’m whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing an elaborate meal for friends and family. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and want to bring those skills outdoors.

Managing the Learning Curve

While the Kamado Joe Classic II is undoubtedly an exceptional cooking tool, it does come with a learning curve, especially if you’re new to kamado-style cooking. Learning to control the vents properly to maintain a steady temperature can take some time, but this process is part of the fun of mastering the grill.

During my first few cooks, I struggled a bit with keeping a consistent temperature, but I quickly learned the nuances of adjusting the top and bottom vents to get it just right. With some practice, I found that the grill became predictable, and managing the airflow started to feel intuitive. For those willing to put in the time, the Kamado Joe Classic II is an immensely rewarding grill to master.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

Another major benefit of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its impressive fuel efficiency. The thick ceramic walls retain heat so well that less charcoal is needed compared to other grills. Whether I’m cooking for a short amount of time or spending an entire day smoking, the Kamado Joe uses significantly less lump charcoal than I expected. This makes it not only more cost-effective over the long term but also more convenient, as I don’t need to constantly refill the charcoal.

The performance of the grill, particularly in terms of flavor, is outstanding. The natural lump charcoal provides a rich, smoky flavor that enhances everything from meats to vegetables. The Classic II consistently delivers great-tasting food, and the smoky profile is simply unmatched by standard propane or electric grills.

Conclusion

The Kamado Joe Classic II is more than just a grill—it’s a complete outdoor cooking system that has transformed my outdoor culinary experience. From grilling steaks and burgers to smoking brisket, baking pizzas, and even roasting a whole chicken, this ceramic grill has handled every task with ease and delivered outstanding results. The durable construction, superb heat retention, and thoughtful features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer cooking system make it a standout choice for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.

While it is an investment, the versatility and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it worth every penny. The grill has not only allowed me to explore new cooking techniques that would be difficult with a standard grill but has also made cooking a more enjoyable experience overall. If you’re in the market for a top-tier grill that can handle everything from high-heat searing to low-and-slow smoking, the Kamado Joe Classic II should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?

A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is made of high-quality, thick-walled ceramic designed for superior heat retention. It includes stainless steel components, heat-resistant fiberglass gaskets, and cast iron elements for enhanced durability.

Q: What are the main 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 precise temperature monitoring.

Q: How does the Kamado Joe Classic II compare to other kamado grills?

A: The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out due to features like the Air Lift Hinge and the Divide & Conquer cooking system, offering greater flexibility and ease of use compared to similar models like the Big Green Egg.

Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?

A: The Classic II offers 406 square inches of cooking space with the Divide & Conquer system, which is more than enough for medium-sized gatherings or family meals.

Q: How long does it take to heat up?

A: Using lump charcoal, the Kamado Joe Classic II typically heats up in 10-15 minutes, depending on the desired temperature and external weather conditions.

Q: What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?

A: The Classic II uses natural lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than standard briquettes, providing excellent flavor and efficiency.

Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grill?

A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the weight of the ceramic lid by 96%, making it easy to lift and enhancing safety during use—especially important during long cooking sessions.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?

A: Yes, it is perfect for smoking thanks to its excellent heat retention and precise airflow control, making it ideal for maintaining low temperatures over extended periods.

Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?

A: Cleaning is simple with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer for quick ash removal, and any leftover residue can be burned off during a high-temperature cooking session.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?

A: Yes, the ceramic body and high-quality components are weather-resistant, though using a grill cover is recommended for added protection and to maintain its appearance.