Kamado Joe Classic II Review

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When it comes to outdoor cooking, few products can rival the versatility and performance of a ceramic grill. After years of using traditional gas and charcoal grills, I decided it was time to take my barbecue game to the next level. Enter the Kamado Joe Classic II, a ceramic grill that promised to revolutionize how I cook. As a passionate griller, I was curious to see if this heavy-duty grill lived up to the hype. So, I took the plunge, and here’s my full review of the Kamado Joe Classic II.

First Impressions: A Solid, Stylish Build

When the Kamado Joe Classic II first arrived at my doorstep, I was immediately impressed by its packaging and build quality. The grill arrived in a well-protected box with all components clearly labeled, making assembly relatively straightforward. The unit itself is quite heavy, weighing in at around 250 pounds, so it's not something you’ll want to move around frequently. Once it was set up, though, it became clear that this grill was built to last.

The ceramic body is robust and gives off an impression of durability. What stood out the most was the vibrant red color. It’s eye-catching and adds a dash of style to any backyard or patio setup. The overall design is sleek and modern, blending the traditional Kamado style with some high-tech innovations that make it easier and more enjoyable to use. The Kamado Joe Classic II looks and feels like a premium product—and, at this price point, it should.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Heat Retention and Temperature Control

One of the biggest advantages of a ceramic grill like the Kamado Joe Classic II is its excellent heat retention. After using it for several weeks, I can confidently say that it holds heat better than any grill I’ve used before. The thick ceramic walls trap heat efficiently, allowing for long, slow cooks at low temperatures or quick, high-heat searing for steaks. I was able to maintain consistent temperatures for hours on end without constantly adjusting vents or adding more fuel.

The Kamado Joe Classic II also excels in temperature control. The venting system is intuitive, featuring a top vent called the "Kontrol Tower" and a bottom air vent for precise adjustments. I was able to dial in my cooking temperatures with minimal effort, whether I was smoking a brisket at 225°F or firing it up to 600°F for pizza night. The built-in thermometer on the dome is also accurate, which is a must for serious grilling.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Divide & Conquer Cooking System

One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its Divide & Conquer flexible cooking system. This innovative design allows for multi-level cooking, giving you the ability to cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously. I found this especially useful when preparing larger meals for family gatherings.

The system consists of half-moon-shaped grates that can be arranged at different heights within the grill. This setup allowed me to sear steaks at a high temperature on one level while slow-cooking vegetables on another. The versatility is fantastic—it’s like having multiple cooking zones within a single grill. This flexibility is something I hadn’t experienced with traditional grills, and it truly transformed the way I prepare meals outdoors.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Air Lift Hinge

Another notable feature that deserves praise in this Kamado Joe Classic II review is the Air Lift Hinge. Anyone who has used a ceramic grill before knows that the lids can be extremely heavy, making them cumbersome to lift. Kamado Joe has solved this problem by adding a spring-loaded hinge, which reduces the weight of the lid significantly.

In practice, the Air Lift Hinge makes a big difference. Lifting the lid on the Kamado Joe Classic II feels almost effortless. This feature enhances safety and usability, particularly when you’re dealing with high heat or cooking for long periods. It’s a small detail, but one that makes the overall grilling experience far more enjoyable.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning a grill is never a fun task, but the Kamado Joe Classic II has some thoughtful design features that make it easier than most. The ceramic surface doesn’t accumulate a lot of grease or grime, and any residue that does build up can usually be burned off during a high-heat cook.

The Kamado Joe Classic II is equipped with a Slide-Out Ash Drawer, which makes removing ash straightforward. Instead of digging around inside the grill with a tool, you simply pull out the ash drawer and empty it. This might seem like a minor convenience, but anyone who has spent hours cleaning a traditional charcoal grill will appreciate how much easier it makes maintenance.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Smoking Capabilities

One of the main reasons I chose the Kamado Joe Classic II was for its smoking capabilities. I’ve always been interested in low-and-slow cooking, and this grill excels in that department. With the use of natural lump charcoal and the Kamado Joe heat deflectors, I was able to transform the Classic II into a highly efficient smoker.

The grill’s thick ceramic walls help maintain consistent low temperatures, making it ideal for smoking large cuts of meat like pork shoulders and briskets. I experimented with different types of wood chunks and charcoal, and the flavor infusion was top-notch every time. The ability to smoke food at a low temperature for long periods without babysitting the grill is something that I deeply appreciated.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Durability and Longevity

Durability is an important consideration when investing in a premium grill like the Kamado Joe Classic II. After using it extensively, I can confidently say that it’s built to withstand the elements. The ceramic body is weather-resistant, and with a grill cover, it stays in great condition even when exposed to harsh outdoor conditions.

The metal components, such as the vent system and cooking grates, are also high-quality and designed to last. I haven’t noticed any signs of rust or wear, even after multiple uses in various weather conditions. While only time will tell how the grill holds up in the long run, my initial impression is that it’s a durable piece of equipment.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Accessories and Extras

Kamado Joe offers a variety of accessories that enhance the versatility of the Classic II. One of the most popular is the JoeTisserie, a rotisserie attachment that fits perfectly onto the grill. I tried this out on a weekend, and the results were incredible. Rotisserie chicken cooked evenly, with crispy skin and tender meat.

Other noteworthy accessories include the pizza stone for baking perfect pizzas, a cast iron grate for superior searing, and a rib rack for maximizing space during large cooks. While these accessories aren’t necessary for everyday grilling, they add a new dimension to the Kamado Joe experience, especially for enthusiasts who want to experiment with different cooking techniques.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Price and Value

At a higher price point, the Kamado Joe Classic II is undoubtedly an investment. However, after using it extensively, I believe it offers excellent value for the money. When you consider the versatility, durability, and the unique features it brings to the table, it’s worth every penny for those serious about outdoor cooking.

Yes, there are cheaper alternatives on the market, but they often lack the build quality and advanced features that set the Kamado Joe Classic II apart. If you’re someone who enjoys grilling, smoking, baking, and experimenting with various cooking styles, this grill will serve you well for years to come.

Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill

In addition to the core features, one of the things that impressed me most about the Kamado Joe Classic II was its cooking versatility. This grill is far more than just a smoker or a standard grill. With the ability to bake, roast, and even slow cook, it opens up a world of culinary possibilities.

For example, I’ve used it to bake bread, and the result was comparable to what I could get from a wood-fired oven. The Kamado Joe holds heat so well that it creates a perfectly consistent environment for baking, which is something you don’t get from typical outdoor grills. And, when I want to roast, the ceramic material retains heat so efficiently that the food comes out moist and evenly cooked.

I also loved the fact that I could fire it up for a quick weeknight grilling session and still get restaurant-quality results. The ability to switch between low and slow cooking to high-heat searing without a complicated setup is a real game-changer. I find myself using it more than I expected, not just for weekend barbecues but also for everyday meals.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Managing the Learning Curve

While I’ve had an overwhelmingly positive experience with the Kamado Joe Classic II, it’s worth noting that there’s a bit of a learning curve. If you’re coming from a traditional gas or charcoal grill, the Kamado style of cooking might take some getting used to. It requires some practice to get the vent adjustments just right, and learning how to maintain consistent temperatures is key for long cooks.

That said, once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. And if you’re the kind of person who enjoys experimenting with different cooking techniques, the learning process can actually be a lot of fun. The Kamado Joe Classic II makes it easy to push the boundaries of what you can do with a grill, so I’d encourage anyone who buys it to take their time and enjoy the journey.

Kamado Joe Classic II Review: Fuel Efficiency and Performance

Another thing that sets the Kamado Joe Classic II apart is its fuel efficiency. The thick ceramic walls and efficient vent system mean that it uses less charcoal than a typical grill. I’ve been surprised by how long I can cook on a single load of lump charcoal. Whether I’m doing a quick grill session or an all-day smoke, the Kamado Joe’s fuel consumption is minimal, which ultimately saves me money on charcoal.

The performance of the grill, particularly when it comes to flavor, is another highlight. Because it uses natural lump charcoal, the food gets a wonderful smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate on a gas grill. Even simple meals like grilled vegetables or burgers have that distinct, wood-fired taste that elevates the dish.

Product Review Conclusion

The Kamado Joe Classic II is more than just a grill—it’s a complete outdoor cooking system. Whether you’re grilling burgers, slow-smoking a brisket, or baking a pizza, this ceramic grill can do it all with ease. Its durable construction, excellent heat retention, and thoughtful features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer cooking system make it stand out from the competition.

While it’s an investment, the versatility and performance of the Kamado Joe Classic II make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone serious about grilling. It has transformed my outdoor cooking experience and allowed me to explore new techniques I couldn’t achieve with a standard grill. If you’re in the market for a top-tier grill that can handle everything from searing to smoking, the Kamado Joe Classic II should be at the top of your list.

Whether you're an experienced pitmaster or just getting into outdoor cooking, the Kamado Joe Classic II is a reliable and versatile tool that will elevate your grilling game to new heights. It has certainly done that for me, and I can’t recommend it enough.

FAQ

1. What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?

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 durability.

2. What are the main features of the Kamado Joe Classic II?

The Kamado Joe Classic II features include:

• Kontrol Tower Top Vent for precise airflow control
• Divide & Conquer® Flexible Cooking System with multi-level grates
• Air Lift Hinge to reduce the weight of the lid
• AMP Firebox with a multi-piece design to prevent cracking
• Slide-Out Ash Drawer for easy cleaning
• A built-in thermometer for monitoring temperature

3. How does the Kamado Joe Classic II compare to other kamado grills?

The Kamado Joe Classic II is often compared to similar grills, like the Big Green Egg. However, it has unique features like the Air Lift Hinge and Divide & Conquer system, which give it more flexibility and ease of use. The Classic II also includes more accessories as standard compared to other kamado-style grills.

4. What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?

The Kamado Joe Classic II has a cooking surface of 18 inches in diameter, with a total of 406 square inches of cooking space when using the Divide & Conquer system. This is enough to grill, smoke, or bake for medium-sized groups or families.

5. How long does it take to heat up the Kamado Joe Classic II?

The Kamado Joe Classic II typically heats up in 10-15 minutes when using lump charcoal. However, the exact time can vary depending on the desired temperature and weather conditions.

6. What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?

The Kamado Joe Classic II uses lump charcoal. This type of charcoal burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes, making it ideal for the high heat and slow-cooking techniques common with kamado grilling.

7. How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the Kamado Joe Classic II?

The Air Lift Hinge reduces the felt weight of the grill's heavy ceramic dome by about 96%, making it easier and safer to open and close the lid without straining, especially during long cooking sessions.

8. Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?

Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is perfect for smoking. Its ceramic design retains heat well, allowing for low and slow cooking at stable temperatures for hours. The top vent and firebox allow precise control of airflow, essential for smoking meats.

9. How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?

Cleaning is simple thanks to the slide-out ash drawer, which collects ashes for easy disposal. For the interior, occasional burn-offs (high-temperature burns) can clean out any grease or residue. The ceramic and metal parts should be cleaned as needed with a gentle brush or damp cloth.

10. Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?

Yes, the Kamado Joe Classic II is designed to withstand various weather conditions due to its ceramic body and high-quality materials. However, using a cover when not in use is recommended to protect the grill from long-term exposure to harsh elements.