Kamado Joe Classic II Review

The Kamado Joe Classic II is a versatile, high-performance ceramic grill that has earned a strong reputation among barbecue enthusiasts. Renowned for its superior heat retention, durability, and versatility, this grill is designed to deliver exceptional results whether you're grilling, smoking, baking, or roasting. In this review, I’ll explore the specifications, share my personal experience with the Kamado Joe Classic II, and discuss its benefits and use cases.

Specifications

The Kamado Joe Classic II is packed with features that set it apart in the world of ceramic grills:

• Material: High-quality ceramic construction with a porcelain glaze exterior that resists chipping and cracking.
• Cooking Area: 18 inches of cooking space, with 304 stainless steel grill grates for longevity and easy maintenance.
• Heat Range: Capable of reaching temperatures as high as 750°F for searing, while maintaining low temperatures around 225°F for smoking.
• Divide & Conquer® Cooking System: Allows for simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures using multiple cooking surfaces.
• Air Lift Hinge: Reduces the weight of the lid, making it easy to open and close with one hand.
• Kontrol Tower Top Vent: Provides precise airflow management, aiding in temperature control even in windy conditions.
• AMP (Advanced Multi-Panel) Firebox: Designed for enhanced durability and crack resistance, offering improved heat management and longevity.
• Included Accessories: Built-in thermometer, ash tool, and grill gripper, providing a complete package for outdoor cooking.

Build Quality and Design

The Kamado Joe Classic II immediately impresses with its build quality. The ceramic construction is incredibly sturdy, and the porcelain glaze gives it a sleek, polished appearance. This grill is built to last, resisting the wear and tear that can come with regular use. The design is not just about aesthetics; the grill is thoughtfully engineered to deliver exceptional performance in a durable, user-friendly package.

One of the standout design features is the Air Lift Hinge, which significantly reduces the effort required to lift the lid. This innovation adds a level of convenience that’s often overlooked in other kamado grills. Additionally, the Kontrol Tower Top Vent is designed to maintain precise airflow, allowing for easy temperature adjustments during cooking, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.

The grill’s Divide & Conquer® Cooking System is another innovative feature that sets it apart. This multi-level, multi-surface system allows for a wide variety of cooking methods and combinations, making it possible to sear a steak on one level while smoking vegetables on another, all within the same cooking session.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Kamado Joe Classic II truly excels. The grill’s ceramic construction ensures superior heat retention, allowing it to heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Whether searing steaks at high heat or smoking a brisket low and slow, the Kamado Joe consistently delivers excellent results.

The versatility of this grill is one of its strongest points. The wide temperature range means it can handle everything from quick, high-heat grilling to prolonged smoking sessions. The consistent temperature management, facilitated by the AMP Firebox and Kontrol Tower Top Vent, makes it easy to achieve the perfect cooking environment, regardless of the method you’re using.

The Divide & Conquer® Cooking System has revolutionized the way I approach outdoor cooking. The ability to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously has opened up new possibilities for meal preparation. For example, I can sear meats on one level while baking bread on another, all in one seamless cooking session.

Self Experience

My experience with the Kamado Joe Classic II has been nothing short of transformative for my outdoor cooking. From the moment I set up the grill, I was impressed by its thoughtful design and high-quality components. The assembly process was straightforward, and the provided tools and instructions made it easy to get started.

One of my most memorable experiences with the Kamado Joe Classic II was smoking a pork shoulder for a family gathering. Using the Divide & Conquer® Cooking System, I was able to smoke the pork at a low temperature on one side while roasting vegetables on the other. The ceramic body’s excellent heat retention ensured that the temperature remained stable throughout the 10-hour smoking process. The result was a perfectly tender pork shoulder with a rich, smoky flavor, complemented by beautifully roasted vegetables.

The Air Lift Hinge is another feature I’ve come to appreciate. Unlike other kamado grills I’ve used, the Classic II’s lid is easy to lift, even during long cooking sessions when I need to frequently check on the food. This small detail makes a big difference in the overall grilling experience.

Cleaning the Kamado Joe Classic II is also a breeze. The built-in ash drawer allows for quick and easy ash removal, and the ceramic surface wipes clean with minimal effort. Even after repeated use, the grill continues to perform at a high level, maintaining its pristine appearance and functionality.

Benefits

• Versatility: The Classic II excels at a wide range of cooking methods, including grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting. Whether searing steaks, smoking briskets, or baking pizzas, this grill handles it all.
• Superior Heat Retention: The ceramic construction ensures excellent heat retention, crucial for maintaining consistent cooking temperatures over extended periods.
• Multi-Level Cooking: The Divide & Conquer® Cooking System allows for cooking multiple dishes at different temperatures simultaneously, perfect for preparing large, complex meals.
• Durability: High-quality ceramic and stainless steel components ensure the grill stands the test of time, even with frequent use.
• User-Friendly Design: Features like the Air Lift Hinge, Kontrol Tower Top Vent, and AMP Firebox make the Kamado Joe Classic II easy to use, even for those new to kamado grilling.

Conclusion

The Kamado Joe Classic 2 Review is an outstanding choice for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. Its combination of versatility, durability, and high performance makes it one of the best ceramic grills on the market. Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, the Classic II offers a range of features that can elevate your cooking to the next level. While it comes with a higher price tag, the quality and functionality you get in return make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves to grill, smoke, bake, or roast outdoors.

FAQ

Q1: Can the Kamado Joe Classic II be used in all weather conditions?
Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is designed to be used in various weather conditions, thanks to its high-quality ceramic construction and durable components. However, using a grill cover is recommended to protect it from the elements when not in use.

Q2: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
Cleaning the Kamado Joe Classic II is straightforward. The built-in ash drawer allows for easy ash removal, and the ceramic surface can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Regular maintenance of the cooking grates and firebox will keep the grill in top condition.

Q3: What accessories come with the Kamado Joe Classic II?
The Kamado Joe Classic II comes with a built-in thermometer, an ash tool, a grill gripper, and the Divide & Conquer® Cooking System, which includes multiple cooking surfaces.

Q4: How long does it take to assemble the Kamado Joe Classic II?
Assembly time can vary, but it typically takes about 1-2 hours to assemble the Kamado Joe Classic II, depending on your experience with similar products. The grill comes with clear instructions to guide you through the process.

Q5: Can the Kamado Joe Classic II be used for smoking?
Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is excellent for smoking. Its superior heat retention and precise temperature control make it ideal for low-and-slow cooking, which is essential for smoking meats.

Q6: What is the cooking temperature range of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
The Kamado Joe Classic II can reach temperatures as high as 750°F, making it perfect for searing. It can also maintain low temperatures around 225°F for smoking.

Q7: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II portable?
The Kamado Joe Classic II is quite heavy, weighing around 250 pounds, which makes it less portable than lighter grills. It is designed to be a stationary unit for your outdoor cooking space.

Q8: Does the Kamado Joe Classic II come with a warranty?
Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II typically comes with a limited lifetime warranty on ceramic parts and a 5-year warranty on metal components. It’s advisable to check with the retailer or manufacturer for specific warranty details.

Q9: Can the cooking grates be replaced if they wear out?
Yes, replacement cooking grates are available for the Kamado Joe Classic II, ensuring that you can maintain the grill’s performance over time.

Q10: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is suitable for both beginners and experienced grillers. Its user-friendly design features, such as the Air Lift Hinge and Kontrol Tower Top Vent, make it easy to use, even for those new to kamado grilling.