Upon receiving the Kamado Joe Classic II, I was immediately struck by the quality of its packaging and the sturdiness of its build. Weighing around 250 pounds, this is not a grill you'll want to move often. However, once set up, it’s clear this grill is designed to last. The ceramic body exudes durability, and the vibrant red color adds a stylish touch to any outdoor space. The sleek design combines traditional Kamado aesthetics with modern features, making it both functional and visually appealing.

Heat Retention and Temperature Control

The Kamado Joe Classic II shines when it comes to heat retention, easily outperforming traditional grills. Its thick ceramic walls trap heat efficiently, allowing for consistent low-temperature cooking or high-heat searing. The venting system, featuring the "Kontrol Tower" top vent and a bottom air vent, allows for precise control, making it easy to maintain stable cooking temperatures. Whether you’re slow-smoking at 225°F or firing it up to 600°F for a quick sear, this grill makes temperature control a breeze.

Divide & Conquer Cooking System

One of the standout features of the Kamado Joe Classic II is its innovative Divide & Conquer cooking system. This system includes half-moon grates that can be positioned at different heights, allowing for simultaneous cooking at different temperatures. This feature proved incredibly useful when preparing meals for larger groups, as I could sear meats at high temperatures while slow-cooking vegetables on another level.

Air Lift Hinge

The Air Lift Hinge is a game-changing feature of the Kamado Joe Classic II. Lifting the heavy ceramic lid on most kamado-style grills can be cumbersome, but the spring-loaded hinge on this model makes the process almost effortless. This feature not only enhances usability but also improves safety, especially during long cooking sessions at high heat.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining the Kamado Joe Classic II is a relatively easy task. Its ceramic surface doesn’t hold onto grease or grime as much as metal grills, and any residue can typically be burned off during a high-heat cook. The Slide-Out Ash Drawer is another convenient feature, making ash removal simple and quick, reducing the time and effort typically required for cleaning.

Smoking Capabilities

One of the main reasons for choosing the Kamado Joe Classic II was its smoking abilities. The grill excels in low-and-slow cooking, maintaining steady low temperatures ideal for smoking large cuts of meat. The thick ceramic walls help to retain heat, while the use of natural lump charcoal and heat deflectors ensures a perfect smoking environment.

Durability and Longevity

The Kamado Joe Classic II is built to last, with its weather-resistant ceramic body and high-quality metal components. After several months of use, the grill shows no signs of wear or rust, even in varying weather conditions. Paired with a grill cover, this grill should maintain its excellent condition for years to come.

Accessories and Extras

Kamado Joe offers a wide range of accessories, enhancing the versatility of the Classic II. I tested the JoeTisserie attachment, which produced evenly cooked rotisserie chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Other accessories, such as the pizza stone and rib rack, add even more functionality to the grill, making it a highly versatile outdoor cooking tool.

Price and Value

Though priced at a premium, the Kamado Joe Classic II offers excellent value for serious outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Its advanced features, durability, and versatility justify the investment, especially when compared to cheaper alternatives that lack the same build quality and functionality. For those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking styles, this grill delivers long-term value.

Cooking Versatility: More Than Just a Grill

The Kamado Joe Classic II goes beyond being a simple grill, offering the ability to bake, roast, smoke, and more. I was especially impressed with its baking capabilities, producing results comparable to wood-fired ovens. This versatility allows for a wide range of cooking techniques, making the grill suitable for both quick weeknight meals and elaborate weekend gatherings.

Managing the Learning Curve

While the Kamado Joe Classic II offers many benefits, it does come with a learning curve, especially for those new to kamado-style cooking. Getting the hang of vent adjustments and maintaining consistent temperatures may take some practice, but once mastered, the process becomes second nature. The learning curve is an enjoyable part of exploring the full potential of this grill.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

The Kamado Joe Classic II is remarkably fuel-efficient, using less charcoal than standard grills. Whether cooking for short periods or engaging in an all-day smoke, the grill’s efficient design minimizes fuel consumption. The performance, particularly in terms of flavor, is exceptional, with natural lump charcoal providing a rich, smoky taste to every dish.

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.

FAQ

Q: What is the Kamado Joe Classic II made of?
A: 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.

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 monitoring temperature.

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, providing greater flexibility and ease of use compared to similar models like the Big Green Egg.

Q: What is the cooking capacity of the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: It offers 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: Typically, it heats up in 10-15 minutes using lump charcoal, depending on the desired temperature and weather conditions.

Q: What kind of fuel does the Kamado Joe Classic II use?
A: It uses lump charcoal, which burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes.

Q: How does the Air Lift Hinge improve the grill?
A: The Air Lift Hinge reduces the weight of the ceramic lid by 96%, making it safer and easier to use during long cooking sessions.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II suitable for smoking?
A: Yes, it is perfect for smoking, thanks to its excellent heat retention and precise airflow control.

Q: How do you clean the Kamado Joe Classic II?
A: Cleaning is made simple with the Slide-Out Ash Drawer and occasional high-temperature burns to remove residue.

Q: Is the Kamado Joe Classic II weather-resistant?
A: Yes, its ceramic body and durable materials make it weather-resistant, though a cover is recommended for protection.