The Grilla Grills Kong Ceramic Kamado is a heavy-duty, 276-pound grill featuring 1.25-inch ceramic construction and an all-terrain cart for mobility. It offers 643 square inches of cooking space with both main and upper grates, and can reach temperatures up to 700°F. While it includes bamboo side shelves and handle for aesthetic appeal, the diffuser is sold separately. Shipping is via freight with delivery driver assistance required for pallet jack service.
Full review
Dimensions and portability
The Grilla Kong ceramic kamado measures 49 inches in height, 56 inches in width with side shelves, and 30 inches in depth. The Kong's design includes a heavy-duty stainless steel cart with double-locking castor wheels, which are made from soft rubber and designed to hold position on composite decks without leaving marks. The wheels feature a double-locking mechanism that prevents spinning and turning, ensuring stability when the grill is in use. This setup makes the Kong suitable for both patio use and off-road applications, as noted by reviewers who tested its mobility through grassy terrain.
The Kong's dimensions and weight make it a significant investment for outdoor cooking spaces. The 276-pound weight with cart requires careful handling during setup and relocation. Reviewers noted that the assembly process, while straightforward, takes approximately 68 minutes and benefits from having 2-3 people present. The all-terrain cart's design allows for easy movement across various surfaces, including uneven ground, making it a versatile option for users who need to move their grill frequently. The cart's construction uses stainless steel components that resist rust, extending the grill's lifespan and maintaining its appearance over time.
Construction and materials
The Kong's ceramic construction features 1.25-inch thick walls throughout, providing excellent insulation and heat retention. The grill's body is crafted with heavy-duty ceramic that maintains consistent temperatures for extended periods, a key advantage for low-and-slow cooking methods. Stainless steel components are used extensively, including the mounting straps, hinges, and the cart's frame. The stainless steel rear opening hinge includes two springs that assist in lifting the heavy lid and a shock absorber plunger that cushions the lid's fall, reducing the risk of ceramic cracking. These safety features make the Kong more durable and user-friendly compared to models lacking such mechanisms.
The grill's mounting system incorporates ceramic ridges that securely hold the stainless steel mounting straps, preventing the lid from falling out during use. This design addresses a common issue with other kamados that rely solely on pressure from straps, which can loosen over time. The Kong's stainless steel hardware, including the mounting straps and hinges, resists corrosion and ensures long-term functionality. The ceramic coating is described as eye-catching and well-applied, contributing to the grill's aesthetic appeal while protecting the underlying ceramic structure from environmental damage.
Cooking performance and versatility
The Kong delivers exceptional cooking performance with the ability to reach temperatures up to 700°F or more, making it suitable for searing steaks and achieving high-heat cooking. The grill's convection heat flow, regulated by top and bottom dampers, allows for precise temperature control and consistent cooking results. During testing, the temperature gauge proved accurate, with internal temperatures matching infrared readings at 275°F. The dual cooking grate system provides 643 square inches of total cooking space, with each level measuring 20.5 inches and 20 inches respectively. The upper grate can be partially flipped up or completely removed for easier access to food on the main level.
Users have reported excellent results when cooking various meats using both direct and indirect heat methods. The Kong's ability to maintain steady temperatures during low-and-slow smoking sessions was particularly impressive when cooking a smoked chuck roast and a bone-in pork shoulder. The grill's ceramic construction allows for extended cooking periods without significant temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for long smoking sessions. The inclusion of a diffuser is recommended for optimal performance, as it helps distribute heat evenly and prevents burning of food during indirect cooking. The Kong's versatility extends to baking wood-fired pizza and roasting whole chickens, demonstrating its capability across multiple cooking techniques.
Assembly and setup experience
Assembly of the Kong grill requires 2-3 people due to its substantial weight and construction. The process takes approximately 68 minutes according to one reviewer, which is faster than many gas grills. The instructions are described as straightforward, and the packaging is well-designed to keep all components organized during transport. The all-terrain cart is included with the setup, but the stand must be purchased separately. Reviewers noted that the assembly process is manageable for those with basic DIY skills and that the included tools are sufficient for completing the build. The modular design allows for easy attachment of side shelves and the main cooking grates, with the upper grate offering convenient access for adding charcoal without removing all food items.
The Kong's setup includes several user-friendly features that enhance the grilling experience. The stainless steel mounting straps and ceramic ridges ensure the lid remains securely in place during use, eliminating concerns about the lid falling out. The spring-assisted hinge system makes lifting the heavy lid easier and safer, while the shock absorber prevents sudden drops that could damage the ceramic. The grill's weight and construction make it stable during operation, but its mobility is enhanced by the double-locking castor wheels that allow for easy movement across various surfaces. The inclusion of a diffuser is recommended, though it is sold separately, as it significantly improves heat distribution and cooking outcomes.
Cooking surface and accessories
The Kong's cooking surface features 304 stainless steel grates that provide 643 square inches of total cooking space. The upper cooking grate can be flipped up partially or removed completely, allowing access to the main cooking level without removing all food items. This design feature is particularly useful for adding charcoal or adjusting food placement during cooking. The lower cooking area measures 20.5 inches in width, while the upper level is 20 inches wide, providing ample space for various cooking needs.
The grill comes with several accessories included in the box, including the stand, main and upper cooking grates, an ash tool, and two side shelves. The side shelves are described as dual heavy-duty bamboo tables that add functionality and storage space. However, the diffuser is not included and must be purchased separately, which is noted as a potential drawback by reviewers who emphasize its importance for optimal performance. The stainless steel grates are designed to withstand high temperatures and provide even heat distribution. The mounting system uses stainless steel hardware that resists rust and ensures long-term durability. The grill's overall design allows for easy access to all cooking areas, with the upper grate's removable feature being particularly convenient for maintenance and food handling.
Strengths
- +All-terrain cart included for easy mobility and off-roading capability
- +643 square inches total cooking surface with both main and upper grates
- +Includes bamboo side shelves and handle for aesthetic and functional appeal
- +Can reach temperatures up to 700°F for searing and high-heat cooking
Watch-outs
- −Diffuser not included with the grill
- −Shipping via freight with delivery driver required for pallet jack service
How it compares
The Grilla Grills Kong offers 643 sq in of cooking space that's larger than the Big Green Egg XL's 452 sq in, but it's significantly heavier and lacks the established brand recognition. Unlike the Kamado Joe Konnected Joe, it doesn't feature smart technology or automatic fire starters, though it does offer an all-terrain cart for mobility.
Rating sources
“The Kong is a Kamado/egg-type grill that is made of heavy-duty ceramic. Several desirable options make the Kong grill a good bang for the buck.”
“The Kong is Grilla Built just like all our grills; with a stainless steel cart and hardware it's built to perform for years with proper care.”
Our 4.7 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
