Quick Summary:
Price: $1,299.00
Pros
- Exceptional Heat Retention and Control: The thick ceramic body provides excellent heat retention, making it easy to maintain precise temperatures for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.
- Versatile Cooking System: The Divide & Conquer system allows for multi-level cooking at different temperatures, making it possible to sear, roast, and slow cook all at once.
- Air Lift Hinge for Easy Handling: The spring-loaded hinge makes lifting the heavy ceramic lid almost effortless, enhancing safety and convenience during grilling.
- Durable Build Quality: With a robust ceramic body and quality metal components, the Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last and withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
- Fuel Efficiency: The efficient vent system and ceramic insulation reduce charcoal consumption, making the grill economical to use over time.
Cons
- Price Point: The Kamado Joe Classic II is more expensive than many standard grills, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
- Learning Curve: For those unfamiliar with ceramic or Kamado-style grills, mastering temperature control and air vent management can take some time.
Upon receiving the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately impressed by its packaging and robust build quality. Weighing around 250 pounds, this isn’t a grill to move around frequently, but once set up, it’s clear that it’s designed for lasting durability. The ceramic body feels solid, and its striking red color adds an eye-catching element to any outdoor space. The design manages to blend traditional Kamado aesthetics with modern features, providing both style and functionality.
Heat Retention and Temperature Control
The Kamado Joe Classic II excels in heat retention, outperforming standard grills with its thick ceramic walls that trap heat effectively. This design allows for precise control, whether you’re maintaining low temperatures for slow cooking or firing up to 600°F for a quick sear. The "Kontrol Tower" top vent and bottom air vent allow for fine-tuning, making it easy to hold a stable temperature for extended periods. This control range is ideal for slow smoking at 225°F or for high-heat grilling, adapting effortlessly to different cooking needs.
Divide & Conquer Cooking System
One of the most innovative features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its Divide & Conquer cooking system. This setup includes half-moon grates that can be placed at different heights, allowing for simultaneous cooking at varied temperatures. This feature was especially helpful when I prepared meals for a larger gathering. I could easily sear meats at high heat on one side while slow-cooking vegetables on another level, maximizing cooking flexibility.
Air Lift Hinge
The Air Lift Hinge is a standout feature that enhances the grill’s usability. Typically, lifting the heavy ceramic lid on a Kamado grill can be cumbersome, but the spring-loaded Air Lift Hinge makes it almost effortless. This hinge improves both safety and convenience, particularly for long cooking sessions, as it minimizes the risk of heavy lid slamming, making the grill more user-friendly.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Kamado Joe Classic II is relatively easy to maintain. Its ceramic surface doesn’t hold onto grease and grime like metal grills, and residue can be cleared with a high-heat burn-off. The Slide-Out Ash Drawer also simplifies cleaning by making ash disposal easy and quick, cutting down the time needed for post-cook cleanup.
Smoking Capabilities
A primary reason I chose the Kamado Joe Classic II was for its smoking capabilities. It’s ideally suited for low-and-slow cooking, maintaining steady low temperatures for smoking large cuts of meat. The thick ceramic walls retain heat exceptionally well, and the use of natural lump charcoal with heat deflectors ensures a perfectly controlled smoking environment, producing tender, smoky results.
Durability and Longevity
The Kamado Joe Classic II is built to withstand the elements, featuring a weather-resistant ceramic body and high-quality metal components. After several months of use, I haven’t noticed any signs of rust or wear, even with varying weather conditions. Paired with a protective cover, this grill promises to maintain its quality for years, making it a sound investment.
Accessories and Extras
Kamado Joe offers various accessories that enhance the versatility of the Classic II. I tried the JoeTisserie attachment, which delivered perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Additional accessories, like the pizza stone and rib rack, further expand the grill’s capabilities, making it a comprehensive outdoor cooking tool for a range of culinary styles.
Price and Value
Though the Kamado Joe Classic II sits at a premium price point, it offers substantial value for dedicated outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its advanced features, durability, and versatility justify the investment, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives that may lack similar build quality and flexibility. For those who love experimenting with various cooking methods, this grill proves to be a valuable long-term addition.
Cooking Versatility: Beyond a Grill
The Kamado Joe Classic II goes beyond basic grilling, enabling users to bake, roast, smoke, and more. Its baking capabilities especially impressed me, producing results that rival wood-fired ovens. This versatility is perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend meals, offering a range of cooking techniques in one setup.
Managing the Learning Curve
While the Kamado Joe Classic II has many benefits, it does come with a learning curve, particularly for newcomers to kamado-style cooking. Adjusting vents to maintain consistent temperatures may require practice, but mastering these adjustments quickly becomes second nature. The learning process is part of the grill’s appeal, as it invites users to explore its full potential.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
The Kamado Joe Classic II stands out for its fuel efficiency, using less charcoal than conventional grills. Whether you’re cooking for short periods or engaging in an all-day smoke, its design minimizes fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. The flavor, especially when using natural lump charcoal, adds a rich, smoky taste to each dish, enhancing the overall cooking experience.
Conclusion
The Kamado Joe Classic II is more than just a grill; it’s a comprehensive outdoor cooking system that can handle a variety of cooking techniques. From grilling burgers and slow-smoking brisket to baking pizzas, this ceramic grill does it all with ease. Its sturdy construction, exceptional heat retention, and features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system make it stand out in the kamado grill market.
While it’s an investment, the versatility and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it well worth the price for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. It has completely transformed my grilling experience and opened up new cooking methods that are difficult to achieve with standard grills. If you’re searching for a top-quality grill that can do it all, the Kamado Joe Classic II should be at the top of your list.
FAQs for Kamado Joe Classic II
Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II is constructed with high-quality, thick-walled ceramic for superior heat retention. It also includes stainless steel components, heat-resistant fiberglass gaskets, and cast iron elements for added 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 with features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system, offering more flexibility and ease of use compared to other models like the Big Green Egg.
Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: The Kamado Joe Classic II provides 406 square inches of cooking space with the Divide & Conquer system, suitable for medium-sized groups.
Q: How long does it take to heat up?
A: Using lump charcoal, it typically heats up within 10-15 minutes, depending on the desired temperature and weather conditions.
Q: What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: It uses natural lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than standard briquettes, providing enhanced flavor and efficiency.
Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grill?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the ceramic lid’s weight by 96%, making it easier and safer to use, especially for extended cooking sessions.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?
A: Yes, it’s ideal for smoking, thanks to its exceptional heat retention and precise airflow control that allows for low-and-slow cooking.
Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is straightforward with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer for ash disposal and occasional high-heat burns to clear any residue.
Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, the ceramic body and durable materials are weather-resistant, though a cover is recommended for added protection from the elements.