Small Space, Big Flavour: How to Host the Ultimate Summer BBQ

Expert tips for BBQing in apartments, balconies and small gardens.

Whether you have a balcony, small garden or patio, summertime can still provide the perfect opportunity for cooking and dining al fresco. Think beyond spacious backyards and industrial-sized grills to more intimate BBQ gatherings, filled with the same intense flavours and great atmosphere.

Together with Wayfair, we’re showcasing just how to host a great summer BBQ, no matter the size of your outdoor space. From pre-party food prep to investing in small-but-mighty barbecues guaranteed to make your next BBQ a hit.

Meal Prep, Prep, Prep

What’s that saying again? Fail to prepare, prepare to fail? While failing might be a slight exaggeration, prepping any food you can a few hours or even the night before your BBQ party helps out a lot.

Begin the day before by whipping up your marinades and generously adding them to your meats ready for soaking in overnight. Then on the day, pre-cook any meat and veg destined for the grill in the oven and then pop on the barbecue for the last 5 minutes. This way you save on time and space but still deliver that delicious, smoky BBQ flavour.

The Ideal-Sized Grill

As much as we’d all love to own an XXL-sized barbecue, some balconies, apartments and smaller outdoor spaces just won’t accommodate. Try investing in a barbecue model that’s compact or portable, ideal not only for home but easy enough to pack up and take on day trips and getaways.  Trust us when it comes to grilling, it’s not the size that matters, but the way you cook.

Keep It Comfortable

Before your BBQ party kicks off, divide your space into one area for seating and the other for eating complete with buffet train, there for guests to plate up themselves. If the thick, comfortable scatter cushions don’t help to slow down the hungry traffic, then doubling up with two identical plates of everything at either side of your train is sure to help even things out a little.

Grab a Slice

While traditional BBQs remain a firm favourite for outdoor entertaining, pizza ovens are beginning to see much more of a demand. An oven that is space-saving, portable and serves delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas in less than 60 seconds? Now that’s amore.

Encourage Clean Up

Lay a few recycling and rubbish bins around and encourage party goers to clear up their used plates, cups or leftover food. Opt for eco-friendly paper plates and cutlery in place of your everyday options, as this will not only save on washing up, but do that little bit for the environment.