Read Reviews
The Best BBQ Side Tables
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Best for garden BBQs - Keter Unity XL Portable Outdoor BBQ Side Table
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Best for small gardens - BENEFFITO PORTIMAO Barbecue Trolley
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Best wooden side table - Vonhaus Adirondack BBQ Side Table
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Best for table top BBQs - Campingaz Deluxe BBQ Trolley
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Best for camping - Height Adjustable Small Folding Table
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Best for adjustable height - LIFETIME 30-Inch Adjustable Height BBQ Table
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Best folding side table - Kingfisher FSDT Folding Drinks Side Garden Patio Table
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Best on a budget - Silver & Stone Small Fold Up BBQ Side Table
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Best for picnics - PORTAL Folding Aluminum BBQ Side Table
BBQ Side Table Reviews
1. Keter Unity XL Portable Outdoor BBQ Side Table
Best for garden BBQs
- Non-porous stainless steel surface is easy to wipe clean and won’t stain
- Large storage area underneath easily conceals gas cylinders, plates, etc.
- Wheels on one side make it easier to move around when needed
- Hook hangers and spice rack make cooking easier, keeping everything you need within reach
- Very sturdy table overall
- Should be covered or stored inside when not in use to avoid water staining etc.
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Dimensions
- 133.9 x 51.6 x 89.4 cm
- Weight
- 22.68kg
- Design
- 5
- Build Quality
- 5
- Sturdiness
- 5
- Value for Money
- 5
The Keter Unity XL Portable Outdoor BBQ Side Table is one of the best BBQ side tables for garden BBQs.
It’s the biggest table here, measuring approximately 134 cm long and 52 cm deep. This means plenty of space for both storage and food preparation.
The top of the table is made from stainless steel so it’s both durable and easy to keep clean. It’s non porous and won’t stain from food. It also provides plenty of space for both preparing and serving BBQ items.
The rest of the table is made from polypropylene, a type of plastic. However, it’s not just any plastic – it’s particularly durable and weather resistant; plus, it doesn’t fade in sunlight. The plastic has been moulded to have the appearance of wood which makes the overall unit look very tasteful. There’s also the added benefit that it doesn’t require any maintenance, unlike real wood! The shelf underneath the top surface provides extra space for keeping your cutlery, crockery, and other items.
There is a large storage area underneath, concealed behind two cupboards. This is ideal for storing your gas canisters and other BBQ accessories out of the way – great news for anyone who doesn’t like clutter when cooking! The cupboard area measures 103.8 x 41 x 47 cm, so there’s plenty of space.
This is the heaviest BBQ side table featured here, weighing 22.68 kg. This makes it more durable and stable, but only suitable for use in your own garden – it’s not something you’ll be keen to take on camping trips! There are two wheels on one end of the table to make it easier to move across hard surfaces.
Keep in mind that although this table is durable, it’s best to store or cover it when not in use. This will protect it from dirt and debris as well as rust.
Some nice additions to this particular table include the hanging hooks, which make it easy to store cooking utensils, and the spice rack, for keeping seasonings close by. There’s even a paper towel holder and a bottle opener included.
This table needs to be assembled upon arrival – it takes approximately one hour to put together. Several of the pieces ‘snap’ together, those that don’t are attached with screws.
Once the table is assembled, it’s an excellent addition to any garden BBQ. It’s one of the best BBQ side tables overall, and a great option if you enjoy entertaining guests. Amongst other things it can be used to store serving plates, prepare meals, and present a small buffet of food.
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2. BENEFFITO PORTIMAO Barbecue Trolley
Best for small gardens
- Large wheels and side handle make it easy to move around the garden
- Enough space for food preparation but compact enough for small gardens
- Top level can hold up to 30 kg
- Easy to wipe clean and maintain a hygienic food preparation area
- Good size for portable pizza ovens
- Black surface can get scratched relatively easily
- Should be covered or stored inside to prevent rust
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Dimensions
- 65 x 81 x 80 cm
- Weight
- 13kg
- Design
- 4.5
- Build Quality
- 4.5
- Sturdiness
- 5
- Value for Money
- 5
If you’re on the hunt for the best BBQ side table for small gardens, the BENEFFITO PORTIMAO Barbecue Trolley is an excellent choice. Measuring 81 x 65 cm, with a height of 80 cm, it’s big enough to give you lots of space for food preparation but sufficiently compact so as not to take up too much room.
Made from stainless steel, this table is very durable and can hold up to 30 kg on the top surface. There’s an additional shelf underneath, to provide more space, which can hold up to 15 kg.
The table itself weighs 13 kg so it’s easy to move around the garden. It also has two wheels on one side, with a sturdy handle on the other. Therefore, you can also move it without having to pick the whole thing up.
With a glossy block finish, this table isn’t just practical – it also looks chic and will sit nicely alongside black BBQ sets. You could even use it indoors as extra furniture in the kitchen or conservatory when it’s not in use during summer.
Since it’s stainless steel, it’s easy to keep clean and maintain a hygienic food preparation surface. However, it is worth noting that the black finish can be prone to scratches, so it’s best to avoid putting sharp objects directly onto the top surface.
Many people have also commented on how this side table has a useful size and design for holding a portable pizza oven, so this is another way it could be used.
It requires some assembly on arrival, but this is minimal and it’s fairly easy to put together. All of the holes line up well, and the build quality is good overall.
Not only is this one of the best BBQ side tables for small gardens, it would also be a great asset in any situation where you just want a compact table. It’s strong and easy to move around, which are all great features.
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3. Vonhaus Adirondack BBQ Side Table
Best wooden side table
- Useful for holding utensils whilst BBQing, or being used as a coffee table etc.
- Wood finish looks timelessly stylish
- Folds down to compact size for easy storage or transportation
- No assembly required: ready to use as soon as it arrives
- Matching garden furniture available to buy separately
- Much smaller than other options so not suitable for food preparation
- Since it’s folding, it’s not as durable as some other solid options
- Material
- Acacia hardwood
- Dimensions
- 50 x 50 x 50 cm
- Weight
- 4.7kg
- Design
- 4
- Build Quality
- 4
- Sturdiness
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 4.5
The Vonhaus Adirondack BBQ Side Table is a fantastic choice if you want an all-purpose side table. Measuring 50 x 50 x 50 cm it offers a small yet practical surface area. It’s also ideal if you have a very small outdoor space.
Due to its wooden appearance, it can be used as a BBQ side table, or just a general side table for other applications. It’s made from oil-finished acacia hardwood, so it looks beautiful and is durable. The natural wood finish looks great as it is, but you could choose to paint or stain it in another colour to suit an existing colour scheme if you prefer.
It’s weather-resistant, but needs to be stored indoors when not in use. Also, to protect the table, it should be painted with a layer of teak oil once a year.
This table is easy to store as it folds down in seconds and weighs only 4.7 kg, making it one of the lightest tables featured here. It measures 67 x 50 x 7cm once folded so it’s not only easy to store, but also to transport too. You could easily take it on holiday or to a friend’s garden party.
Despite being small, this table can hold an impressive maximum weight of 20 kg. The x-shape frame makes it stable and reliable during use. However, due to its folding nature, this table is unlikely to match the strength of some other, more solid options.
There are a couple of nice bonuses with this table. Firstly, there’s no assembly required, so it’s ready for you to use as soon as it arrives. Secondly, if you’re looking to deck out your whole patio area, Vonhaus has some other matching furniture to go with it.
This table is one of the best BBQ side tables if you want an attractive option that will work as a good all-rounder. It’s useful to have around for BBQs, but will also hold a coffee if you’re just in the garden to relax. Plus, there’s the added bonus that it can fold and be easily stored and transported.
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4. Campingaz Deluxe BBQ Trolley[ SAVE 6% ]
Best for table top BBQs
- Steel surface is safe for tabletop grills
- Inner compartment can store a gas bottle up to 13 kg
- Pull out side table creates additional preparation area but doesn’t make storage more difficult
- Side table and built-in shelf allow easy access to cooking equipment and seasonings
- Durable finish designed to stand up to regular use
- Indents on top surface are designed to be compatible with specific Campingaz BBQs - may not fit other table-top BBQs
- Material
- Alloy steel
- Dimensions
- 63 x 93 x 73 cm
- Weight
- 22kg
- Design
- 4.5
- Build Quality
- 4.5
- Sturdiness
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 4
The Campingaz Deluxe BBQ Trolley is the best BBQ side table for holding portable, table-top BBQs. It’s made from alloy steel to ensure durability and the steel surface is safe for table-top grills. It even has indents to stop your grill from slipping.
However, I should mention that these indents are designed to match up with specific BBQ models. Whilst it’s possible that other grills may fit, they’ve been made specifically with the Campingaz Attitude Tabletop BBQ and the Campingaz Plancha Grill in mind.
The table weighs 22 kg in total. It’s sturdy, but can also be lifted if necessary. Plus, there are two wheels and a strong handle, so most of the time it can simply be wheeled along. Keep in mind that it’s fairly large, measuring 93 x 63 x 73 cm. You will need enough room to store it indoors when not in use, or will need a suitable waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.
As a useful additional feature, this table has a handy side table which pulls out to give you an extra surface for food preparation or utensils. With the side table extended, the trolley measures 120 x 63 x 73 cm providing a good amount of surface space. There’s a useful built-in shelf at the front of the table too where you can keep your seasonings and cooking equipment. It’s certainly a useful table for versatile storage.
Inside the table, there’s a large compartment with space to store your gas cylinder. It has enough space for cylinders up to 13 kg. Alternatively, you could use this large inside space to store other cooking equipment or plates if you prefer.
There is a bit of assembly required for this BBQ side table. It takes approximately one hour to put together. The instructions are clear, it’s just a case of following them methodically.
Overall, the Campingaz Deluxe BBQ Trolley is one of the best side tables for table-top grills. Not only is it an ideal height for tabletop grilling, it also has plenty of space for food preparation and an inner compartment for the gas cylinder.
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5. Height Adjustable Small Folding Table
Best for camping
- Very versatile - can be adjusted to four different heights for different uses
- Folds up and comes with a carry bag to take camping or out for the day
- Lightest table here at only 3.5 kg making it ideal for going on holiday or on picnics
- Quite strong for a folding table, able to withstand loads of up to 30 kg
- Large enough to fit two place settings - can eat at the table as well as use it for food prep
- Height mechanism can be a little fiddly to get used to
- Material
- Plastic and aluminium
- Dimensions
- 46 x 64 x 73 cm
- Weight
- 3.5kg
- Design
- 4
- Build Quality
- 4
- Sturdiness
- 3.5
- Value for Money
- 4.5
If you love having BBQs when camping, the Height Adjustable Small Folding Table is a portable yet functional option. It provides a practical, small surface where you can put your drinks, snacks, or your plate full of delicious BBQ food!
This is the best BBQ side table to take on camping trips and holidays.
It’s extremely lightweight, weighing only 3.5 kg. This means it’s the lightest table featured here and it’s easy to transport. It folds down and comes with its own carry bag for convenience during travel. The bag has both a top handle and a long handle that you can hook over your shoulder.
The tabletop is large enough for two place settings, meaning you can dine at the table outside. Alternatively, it features plenty of room for several plates to help with BBQ prep. It’s also height adjustable, and can be positioned at four different heights: 73 cm, 62 cm, 50 cm and 34 cm. The mechanism for this is somewhat similar to a folding clothes horse or ironing board. Being able to change the height makes this table very versatile, which is extremely useful when camping. You could use it for the kids to eat at or do crafts on, or even use it as a desk for your laptop.
The corners are rounded so you and your kids won’t get caught on any sharp edges. Plus, the tabletop is made from plastic, which is easy to wipe clean and weather-resistant.
The frame is made from powder-coated aluminium which is lightweight but strong. The table can hold an impressive maximum weight of 30 kg.
Non-slip feet keep the table stable while in use, so it shouldn’t slide around too much.
Also, there’s no assembly required with this table, you just take it out of the bag, pop it up and you’re ready to go. It should be stored away in the bag when it’s not in use to keep it in good condition.
Overall, this table is one of the best BBQ side tables to take camping or for days out. It’s extremely lightweight, folds down with ease, has an adjustable height, and has a high maximum load weight!
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6. LIFETIME 30-Inch Adjustable Height BBQ Table[ SAVE 21% ]
Best for adjustable height
- Easily adjustable to four different heights by simply clicking it into place
- Lightweight and easy to carry at just 4.8 kg
- Folds down and pops back up with ease, ideal for storage and transport
- Protective foot caps to protect the floor if used indoors and to add stability
- Large enough to fit three big dinner plates
- Can’t adjust height without turning the table upside down
- No carry bag included which would improve portability
- Material
- Plastic and steel
- Dimensions
- 49.3 x 76.2 x 71.1 cm
- Weight
- 4.8kg
- Design
- 4
- Build Quality
- 4
- Sturdiness
- 4
- Value for Money
- 4.5
This LIFETIME 30-Inch Adjustable Height BBQ Table is an excellent choice if you want a versatile folding table on a budget. It can be adjusted to four different heights: 53 cm, 61 cm, 66 cm and 71 cm.
It has a similar folding mechanism to an ironing board, and you change the table’s height by simply clicking the legs into the slots underneath the tabletop. It’s one of the best BBQ side tables if you want a value-for-money, versatile option.
The adjustable height means this table can be used in a variety of ways. Not only can you use it as a side table for drinks or serving BBQ food, it can also be used indoors to do crafts or work. The fact it has so many versatile uses makes it great value for money.
The tabletop is plastic which is weather-resistant and easy to keep clean. The frame itself is made from steel. The feet have protective foot caps which both increase stability and stop the table from damaging the floor if it’s used indoors.
Despite this table’s weather resistance, it should still be stored or covered when not in use to prevent rust. It’s lightweight, weighing just 4.8 kg, meaning it’s easy to carry in and out of the shed. This light construction also means it can easily be taken on camping trips or days out, although there is no carry bag included.
As this is a folding table, it can be stored in a flat, compact shape and very little storage space is required.
This table has slightly rounded corners to resist impact and increase safety, so you don’t need to worry about you or your kids getting caught on sharp edges. Keep in mind that it’s not going to be as stable as non-folding options, but it’s still stable enough for safe, regular use.
To conclude, this LIFETIME 30-Inch Table is one of the best value folding BBQ side tables. It’s also extremely versatile: it can be adjusted in height and easily transported, making it suitable for a wide range of uses. It’s easy to keep clean, lightweight and there’s no assembly required.
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7. Kingfisher FSDT Folding Drinks Side Garden Patio Table[ SAVE 8% ]
Best folding side table
- Easy to fold and unfold in seconds, even for those with limited strength
- Small surface area is ideal for drinks and other belongings
- Black steel frame and tempered glass top looks sleek and modern
- Lightweight and compact when folded so it’s easy to store
- Comes at a low price making it great value
- Not weatherproof so needs to be stored indoors
- Often arrives with a sticky label on the glass top which then has to be removed - annoying but not the end of the world!
- Material
- Glass and steel
- Dimensions
- 45 x 45 x 50 cm
- Weight
- 4.36kg
- Design
- 4.5
- Build Quality
- 4.5
- Sturdiness
- 4.5
- Value for Money
- 5
The Kingfisher FSDT Folding Drinks Side Garden Patio Table is one of the best BBQ side tables if you want something stylish but inexpensive. It folds up and unfolds in seconds and is very easy to manoeuvre, even for those with limited strength.
When folded, it’s a compact size and light enough to carry easily. It weighs 4.36 kg overall.
Unfolded, the table measures 45 x 45 x 50 cm. As a result, it’s fairly small but still offers enough room to rest your drinks or plate on. The top is made from tempered glass which is easy to clean and gives a beautiful finish. However, because of this glass construction it may not be as suitable for taking in the car or on holidays.
The frame is black powder-coated steel. This is durable and folds out easily into an x-shape frame. There’s no height adjustability, so the table is always 50 cm tall when extended.
This BBQ side table looks particularly contemporary and modern thanks to its black finish and glass-top design. Therefore, it’s a stylish piece of furniture to have outside, but you can even use it indoors, making it multi-functional. Even though this table has a very sleek appearance, it is still one of the cheapest options featured here – so it’s good value for money as well.
There’s no assembly required – it comes ready to use. You simply unfold it and start BBQing.
This BBQ side table looks great, folds down easily for storage and comes at a bargain price. It’s one of the best BBQ side tables if you want a stylish option for the garden without spending a lot of money. Plus, it’s easy to keep clean as well. Overall, it’s a great option for those who want a small folding side table for the summer months.
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8. Silver & Stone Small Fold Up BBQ Side Table[ SAVE 5% ]
Best on a budget
- Low price is ideal for those on a budget
- Lightweight and easy to lift out of storage
- Tempered glass top is easy to clean
- Folding mechanism is easy to use even for those with less grip strength
- Sophisticated, contemporary appearance
- Glass top can be prone to scratches over time
- Not big enough for food preparation or to eat at
- Needs to be stored indoors during bad weather
- Material
- Glass and metal
- Dimensions
- 40 x 40 x 46 cm
- Weight
- 4.48kg
- Design
- 4
- Build Quality
- 4.5
- Sturdiness
- 4
- Value for Money
- 5
The Silver & Stone Small Fold Up BBQ Side Table comes at the lowest price here, making it one of the best BBQ side tables to buy on a budget. It’s a practical yet affordable choice – a great option if you don’t want to spend too much on a BBQ side table.
Even at this low price, this BBQ table delivers good quality. It has a sturdy metal frame and a top made from tempered glass. This is both durable and easy to keep clean. The combination of the dark frame and glass top give this side table a sophisticated appearance.
When unfolded, the table measures 46 x 40 x 40 cm. This means it’s one of the smallest tables here. It’s therefore a great choice for small gardens, and an easy table to place on the patio as a coffee table as well.
The folding mechanism is easy to use and takes seconds to fold and unfold. It’s even suitable for those with less grip strength who may find other folding tables difficult to use.
This BBQ side table is one of the lightest here, weighing only 4.48 kg. This, combined with its compact size when folded, makes it easy to store and carry. On par with the other tables featured on this page, it’s weather-resistant but not weather proof, and should be stored indoors when it’s not in use.
This table is useful for holding smaller objects, such as utensils, plates of food and drinks. It can even be used indoors as a side table during winter.
There’s no assembly required with this table which is useful – it’s easy to unfold and start using straight away. You also get a choice of two colours: black with black glass or silver with clear glass. Both have a smart, contemporary appearance.
Overall, this table is one of the best BBQ side tables if you’re after a budget-friendly option. It looks sophisticated and has an easy-to-use folding mechanism. The tempered glass is easy to clean, and it’s a useful size for BBQs and when relaxing in the garden.
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9. PORTAL Folding Aluminum BBQ Side Table
Best for picnics
- Both frame and tabletop fold to just 70 x 19 x 5.5 cm making it very compact and easy to transport
- Comes with an easy-to-carry bag which is great for taking the table on outings
- Lightweight but has a high maximum load capacity
- Tabletop is big enough to prepare food, eat at, and put your drinks and other belongings
- Anti-slip feet for stability on most terrains
- Can be tricky to sit at to eat depending on height of chairs
- Can’t move it around once assembled as it may come apart
- Material
- Aluminium
- Dimensions
- 70 x 70 x 67 cm
- Weight
- 4.3kg
- Design
- 4
- Build Quality
- 4
- Sturdiness
- 4
- Value for Money
- 4.5
If you frequently go camping, hiking or on picnics, the PORTAL Folding Aluminum BBQ Side Table is the best BBQ side table for outdoor adventures. Not only does it fold down, but the tabletop also rolls up. The whole thing can fit into the included, cylindrical carry bag.
When it’s folded, it measures 70 x 19 x 5.5 cm. This makes it extremely easy to carry. It’s also lightweight, weighing only 4.3 kg.
When you’re ready to eat, you unfold the frame, unroll the top and attach it all together. This takes a matter of minutes. Once assembled, the table measures 70 x 70 x 67 cm so it gives you plenty of room to prepare food and gather around to eat as a small group.
Both the frame and tabletop are made from aluminium so they’re highly durable, rust proof, and easy to keep clean. It’s always best to store it in the bag when it’s not in use, but it can be used even on rainy days.
Despite its folding nature, this table is very durable and can hold up to 30kg. Plus, it has non-slip feet which ensure it’s stable on most terrains. You will need to take it apart if you want to move it though, if you try to move it when it’s assembled, the top can be prone to detaching and the table can wobble a lot. This definitely isn’t recommended if there are items on top!
The table comes in a choice of three colours: silver, brown, and white, so you can choose one that suits your preferences. The brown colour mimics a wooden tabletop due to the slatted appearance, so this might be a good choice for a traditional look.
Overall, this is the best BBQ side table for outdoor adventures. It has a clever space-saving design, handy carry bag, and durable construction. It’s easy to clean, sturdy, and simple to assemble as and when required.
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Compare Product Features
Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.
Keter Unity XL Portable Outdoor BBQ Side Table
- 5
- Stainless steel
- 133.9 x 51.6 x 89.4 cm
- 22.68kg
BENEFFITO PORTIMAO Barbecue Trolley
- 4.8
- Stainless steel
- 65 x 81 x 80 cm
- 13kg
Vonhaus Adirondack BBQ Side Table
- 4.3
- Acacia hardwood
- 50 x 50 x 50 cm
- 4.7kg
Campingaz Deluxe BBQ Trolley
- 4.4
- Alloy steel
- 63 x 93 x 73 cm
- 22kg
Height Adjustable Small Folding Table
- 4
- Plastic and aluminium
- 46 x 64 x 73 cm
- 3.5kg
LIFETIME 30-Inch Adjustable Height BBQ Table
- 4.1
- Plastic and steel
- 49.3 x 76.2 x 71.1 cm
- 4.8kg
Kingfisher FSDT Folding Drinks Side Garden Patio Table
- 4.6
- Glass and steel
- 45 x 45 x 50 cm
- 4.36kg
Silver & Stone Small Fold Up BBQ Side Table
- 4.4
- Glass and metal
- 40 x 40 x 46 cm
- 4.48kg
PORTAL Folding Aluminum BBQ Side Table
- 4.1
- Aluminium
- 70 x 70 x 67 cm
- 4.3kg
What To Look For in a BBQ Side Table
BBQ side tables come in so many styles so the first thing you need to consider is what will be most practical for you.Â
If you’re serious about your BBQs, look for a ‘trolley’ style side table that will provide enough space to prepare food and dish up. Tables that are over 1 m long are useful for entertaining and will give you plenty of space. It also helps if they have shelves and additional storage areas.
If you simply want somewhere to put your drinks or prepare a side dish, a small folding side table will be more practical. A tabletop that measures around 50 x 50 cm will provide enough space to be practical, whilst a folding design will make it much easier to store.
There are additional features to look out for if you want a more versatile BBQ side table. For example, height-adjustable side tables are useful if you want to use the table in lots of different ways. You could either eat at the table yourself or set it up for the kids.
Alternatively, if you want something that will be useful on camping trips, I recommend a lightweight, folding table. Something between 3 – 5 kg will be easy to carry. The best BBQ side tables for camping trips, picnics and holidays will come with carry bags included – this is certainly worth looking out for if you’re outdoorsy!
When it comes to the best BBQ side table, I’ve chosen the Keter Unity XL Portable Outdoor BBQ Side Table as my top recommendation. This is the ultimate choice when it comes to home BBQs, offering loads of space for preparing and serving food. It has a stainless steel countertop which is easy to wipe down, loads of storage space, and room to hang utensils as well.
How to Choose The Best BBQ Side Table
There’s nothing better than a summer BBQ, but if you’re catering for a number of guests, things do have the potential to get chaotic pretty quickly!
Having a spacious side table to store and display cutlery, crockery, plates, condiments and sides can make serving up a delicious meal outside a whole lot easier. Your friends won’t keep asking you to locate different sauces, and you can focus on the all-important cooking!
Naturally, you’re going to want the best BBQ side table for the job, and you’ll find they come in a range of styles, designs and finishes: while some are collapsible, others are substantial units with integrated storage cupboards.
If you’re considering making a purchase but aren’t sure where to start, these tips will help you make an informed decision.
READ NEXT: The Best Gas Barbecues
Choosing the Right Design
There are a lot of different styles on the market when it comes to table design; so, which will be the most best BBQ side table for your outdoor grill set up?
Simple, collapsible tables are handy for sides and salads. They can be erected at a moment’s notice, and are very easy to store.
Larger collapsible tables can be much more substantial. As a result, you can use it to set up a whole buffet as well as a condiment area and drinks station – if you’re having a large gathering this type of table is sure to make everything go very smoothly.
More expensive side tables, which often resemble kitchen countertops, tend to come with built-in storage, underneath storage and hooks for utensils. These are very practical, and some even come with utensils included!
You’ll be able to find a side table to suit the ‘look’ that you’re going for in your garden. Rustic, wooden tables tend to look most at home in traditional-style gardens, while minimalist tables in darker colours with clean edges are very modern.Â
An addition word of advice: don’t immediately discount a simple, cheap and cheerful folding table. While not the most aesthetic on the market, they are immensely practical and, once filled with food (and possibly covered with a tablecloth), your guests will hardly notice the design!
Integrated Storage
Some BBQ side tables come with built-in storage as well as hooks for hanging utensils.Â
A storage shelf underneath the table is great for storing clean plates, while the top can be used to display condiments and sides. Tables with built-in storage are more expensive, but offer a lot of possibilities if you’re hosting lots of guests.
It’s really up to you, and depends if you’re happy to have everything out on a large table top or if you like the idea of having a smaller side table unit which has an integrated cupboard more like a kitchen counter top.
Practicality, Ease of Assembly and Manoeuvrability
For the most part, folding tables are generally the easiest to set up and take down. They can be easily moved into position, put together, and then disassembled at the end of the day.
The majority of folding tables aren’t going to have built-in storage as they tend to just be table-top surfaces. However, it is possible to find exceptions to this rule! Some are collapsible but a bit more intricate with their folding design, and therefore accommodate storage like mid-level shelves.
In terms of non-collapsible units, plastic side tables are going to be lighter than wooden ones. They are therefore extremely easy to move around (when they haven’t been filled with crockery yet!) and won’t get damaged easily in storage. Generally little-to-no initial assembly is required, which also means they can’t be disassembled – you’ll need enough space to store them in their entirety.
Plus, plastic side tables don’t require any maintenance to remain weatherproof. If you’re buying a plastic model, make sure that it is UV resistant because you don’t want it to fade or degrade in the sunlight.
When it comes to wooden side tables, they tend to arrive flat packed and require initial assembly to put them together. However, much of the time, ‘once they are up they are up’ and you won’t be able to easily take them apart for storage. Whilst heavier than plastic units, you should still be able to move a wooden side table around fairly easily, perhaps with another pair of hands to help.
If the wood is pressure treated, it should be well protected against the elements. However, if not, you should make sure to treat the wood so that it is protected against rain and damp.
Choosing the Best Quality Materials
Side tables are made from a range of materials. Wooden tables are a very popular option. These are stylish and durable, but they can be heavy.
Wooden side tables that have been waterproofed can be left out in the garden but, if you want them to last as long as possible, it’s always a better idea to put them into storage when not in use.
Plastic tables are the most affordable option. These can be collapsible or permanently-built units.
Plastic tables also offer great weather resistance and are very lightweight. The downside to plastic tables is that they might be slightly less durable than wooden ones. If you value style, look for a plastic table with faux wood finish – this gives you all the aesthetic benefits of wood, with the practicality of plastic.
Finally, there are metal tables. These are generally very durable provided they are powder coated and rust resistant. Metal tables are more expensive than plastic, but still generally have a lightweight design.
If you’re purchasing a foldable table, look for a strong, corrosion-resistant frame. In most cases, the frame will be made from powder-coated metal. When in use, keep an eye on it for signs of rust – as the last thing you want is the table collapsing under the weight of your salads!
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BBQ Side Table FAQs
This depends on your budget and style of garden. Temporary BBQ side tables are usually made from plastic as these are light to move around and easy to store. Plus, plastic tables don’t require any maintenance.
If you value aesthetics and don’t mind paying a little more, a wooden table is a great option. The downside is that, if not pressure treated, they need regular maintenance for weather resistance.
Foldable and collapsible BBQ side tables shouldn’t be left out overnight, especially in rain or strong winds. A calm summer’s night probably won’t do too much damage, but it’s best practice to store your table after each use.
Wooden or metal tables can be left outside overnight provided they are weather resistant. I recommend not leaving your side table in an exposed area, as it may blow over!
Some wooden tables will be pressure treated, which means they require very little maintenance. If your wooden side table hasn’t been pressure treated, you’ll need to treat it yourself with a wood sealer either once or twice a year.
Any surface that you use with a table-top grill or outdoor pizza oven should be heat resistant. Stone and metal surfaces are good options. However, it’s best to only use a table that states it is compatible for use with table-top grills. This will be the safest option.
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