The Bastard Urban Small Review

The Bastard Urban Small is a compact charcoal barbecue designed for urban spaces. Its sleek, matte black ceramic construction offers durability and excellent heat retention, although it adds to the grill's weight, limiting portability. While the grill is ideal for small gatherings, its cooking surface may be restrictive for larger groups. The cast iron grid provides excellent searing, and the top vent allows precise temperature control, though it requires regular maintenance to prevent sticking. A built-in thermometer aids in monitoring temperatures, though it might not always be accurate.

Despite its compact size, the grill excels in delivering consistent heat and authentic smoky flavors, with features like a heat deflector for indirect cooking. The assembly is straightforward, and cleaning is facilitated by a removable ash catcher. However, some metal components may rust if not properly maintained, and additional purchases like an ash tool or cover might be necessary.

Compared to competitors, The Bastard Urban Small stands out for its robust build and heat retention, though it comes at a higher price point. It offers good value for those prioritizing quality and performance over size. Overall, it's a solid choice for those with limited space seeking a reliable charcoal grilling experience, though it may require a learning curve for beginners.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the The Bastard Urban Compact or The Bastard Urban Medium Complete or The Bastard Urban Large Complete.

If you're on the hunt for a nifty charcoal barbecue that fits snugly into your tight outdoor space, you're in for a treat. The Bastard Urban Small is a compact, yet mighty option for those who love the authentic smoky flavor only charcoal can bring. This little powerhouse is designed with urban dwellers in mind, offering performance without demanding too much of your precious patio real estate.

Charcoal barbecues have a certain charm; they bring an element of tradition and simplicity to outdoor cooking. However, finding one that balances size with functionality can be a bit of a task. Does this model hold up to its promises of compact efficiency? Well, it certainly has a few tricks up its sleeve, but it might not be for everyone.

While this grill delivers on space-saving, some might find its cooking space a tad limited if you're planning to host a larger group of friends. But for intimate gatherings or a family meal, it could be just perfect. Ready to see if this compact contender checks all the boxes for your grilling needs? Let's take a closer look at what makes it stand out (or not) in the crowded world of charcoal barbecues.

The design and build quality of a charcoal barbecue can make or break your grilling experience. With the Bastard Urban Small, you're looking at a compact yet solidly constructed grill that's ready to tackle any backyard gathering.

The first thing you'll notice is its sleek, urban design. This barbecue comes with a stylish matte black finish that not only looks great but also does wonders in terms of durability. It's constructed from high-quality ceramic, which provides excellent insulation, allowing for more consistent cooking temperatures. This material also makes it resistant to weather elements, so it's built to last.

While the ceramic body is a major plus, it also adds quite a bit to the grill's weight, making it less portable than some might prefer. However, the sturdy construction ensures that once it's in place, it stays put – no wobbling or instability here.

Its compact size is another key feature. If you're working with limited space, this grill fits the bill perfectly. Despite its smaller stature, it doesn’t compromise on cooking space or performance. The grill's tight seal helps in maintaining heat, and the air vents allow for precise temperature control, which is a must for any serious griller.

One minor downside is the metal components, such as the hinges and air vents, which could prone to rust over time if not properly maintained. Regular cleaning and occasional checks are necessary to keep it in top shape.

In summary, the Bastard Urban Small delivers a well-thought-out combination of design and durability. Its robust build and modern look make it a standout option for those seeking a reliable and stylish charcoal barbecue.

The Bastard Urban Small offers a range of features that enhance the overall barbecue experience. Starting with its ceramic construction, it provides excellent heat retention and distribution. This means your food cooks evenly, reducing the chances of burnt or undercooked spots. The ceramic also makes it a bit more efficient on charcoal usage, as it holds heat like a champ.

The grill has a cast iron grid, which is a real gem for those perfect grill marks and a wonderful sear on your steaks. It’s sturdy and durable, but keep in mind that cast iron does need a bit of maintenance to prevent rusting. Regular seasoning of the grid will help maintain its performance over time.

One interesting feature is the top vent, which allows you to control the airflow with precision. This is crucial for managing the temperature, whether you’re doing a quick sear or a slow cook. However, the vent can get a bit sticky if not cleaned regularly, so a bit of upkeep is necessary to keep it functioning smoothly.

The built-in thermometer is a helpful addition, making it easy to monitor the internal temperature without lifting the lid and losing precious heat. But, bear in mind, these built-in gauges can sometimes be a little off, so having a separate, more accurate thermometer might be a good backup plan.

When it comes to performance, this grill gets up to cooking temperature relatively quickly and maintains it steadily. It's versatile, handling anything from searing to low-and-slow cooking with ease. However, due to its compact size, you might find yourself limited if you’re planning to cook for a large crowd.

In short, the Bastard Urban Small packs a punch with its solid features and reliable performance, though it does require a bit of care to keep it in top shape. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or just starting out, it's a grill that offers a satisfying cooking experience.

Using a charcoal barbecue can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but the Bastard Urban Small makes it surprisingly straightforward. This compact grill is designed with ease of use in mind, catering to both newbies and seasoned grill masters alike. You don't have to be a pitmaster to get this thing going. Lighting up the charcoal is a breeze, thanks to the well-ventilated design that allows for efficient airflow. The vents are easy to adjust, letting you control the temperature with precision.

Temperature management is often a stumbling block for charcoal grills, but not here. The built-in thermometer helps you keep track of the heat levels without needing to open the lid and lose all that precious smoke. It’s like having a built-in safety net for your cooking ambitions.

Cleaning a grill is generally a chore, but the Bastard Urban Small minimizes the hassle with a removable ash catcher. Just slide it out, dump the ash, and you're good to go for the next session. The grates are also relatively easy to clean, requiring just a simple brush down post-cooking.

On the downside, the compact size limits the amount of food you can cook at once. If you’re planning a big cookout, you might find yourself doing multiple rounds. Still, for small gatherings or a family dinner, it’s just about perfect.

Assembly isn’t rocket science either. The instructions are clear, and you'll have it up and running in no time. However, the grill does weigh a bit, so finding a steady spot in your garden or patio is wise.

In conclusion, this barbecue strikes a great balance between simplicity and functionality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy grilling without fuss.

When you first get your hands on The Bastard Urban Small, it's like opening a treasure chest for grill enthusiasts. So, what's inside the box? Let's take a look.

• The Grill Itself: Of course, the centerpiece of the package is the grill. It's compact yet solid and gives a promise of quality craftsmanship.
• Cast Iron Grid: This sturdy piece is perfect for getting those desirable grill marks on your food. Being made of cast iron, it retains heat exceptionally well.
• Heat Deflector: A handy addition that allows for indirect cooking. This is great if you're into slow-cooking or smoking.
• Charcoal Basket: This feature helps manage and organize your charcoal, making the grilling process a bit cleaner and more efficient.
• Chimney Cap: For controlling airflow and maintaining the right temperature. It’s essential for achieving different cooking styles.

Now, on the downside, you might notice that there's no ash tool included. You'll need to buy this separately if you want to keep your grill clean and prolong its life. Also, there's no cover included, so protecting your grill from the elements will require an additional purchase.

Overall, the contents of the box are well thought out to get you started with grilling right away. However, a couple of extra accessories could have made the package even more convenient.

When it comes to cooking experience, The Bastard Urban Small truly shines in many ways, while also presenting a few quirks. This compact grill is perfect for those who love charcoal barbecuing but don't have a lot of space to work with. Its size makes it ideal for small gatherings or balcony setups, yet it still delivers that authentic smoky flavor we all crave. The grill's heat retention is impressive, thanks to its ceramic build. Once you get it up to temperature, it maintains a consistent heat that makes cooking a breeze. You can easily achieve a nice sear on steaks while still keeping them juicy and tender inside. Who doesn't love that perfect grill mark?

Temperature control is straightforward, with the top and bottom vents offering solid control over the airflow. However, it may take a bit of practice to get accustomed to the vent system if you're new to ceramic grills. But once you get the hang of it, the results are definitely worth it.

The cooking space might feel a bit limited if you're used to larger grills. With a 33 cm diameter, it comfortably fits two to three steaks or a small rack of ribs. So, if you’re planning to cook for a larger group, you might have to do it in batches.

One nifty feature is the included heat deflector, which enables indirect grilling. This is perfect if you want to slow-cook meats or roast veggies without the risk of burning them on direct heat. It adds a layer of versatility to your cooking repertoire that's rare in smaller grills.

Cleaning up after a session is relatively hassle-free. The ash collector at the bottom makes it easy to remove ash, though the compact nature of the grill means you have a bit less room to maneuver.

Overall, the cooking experience on The Bastard Urban Small is enjoyable and highly satisfying. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy traditional charcoal grilling in a smaller package, though keep in mind its size limitations for larger cooks.

When sizing up the The Bastard Urban Small against its competitors, a few key points help it stand out, while others might make you pause. Let's break it down.

Design and Build Quality

Many charcoal barbecues in this size range, such as the Weber Smokey Joe and the Kamado Joe Jr., offer sturdy builds, but The Bastard shines with its robust ceramic construction. This not only ensures durability but also excellent heat retention. Some competitors might use lighter materials, which can be easier to transport, but they often fall short in maintaining consistent cooking temperatures.

Features and Performance

Compared to others like the Big Green Egg MiniMax, The Bastard Urban Small offers similar high-temperature cooking capabilities. However, some might find that its smaller cooking surface is a bit limiting, especially if you're planning to serve a larger crowd. The versatility in temperature control can be a real plus, providing the flexibility to grill, smoke, or even bake easily.

Ease of Use

While the Urban Small is user-friendly, the ash management system isn’t as advanced as some models like the Napoleon Charcoal Kettle. This means cleanup might take a tad longer. Yet, the simple vent controls are pretty intuitive, which compensates for any cleanup hassle.

Cooking Experience

When it comes to the cooking experience, The Bastard excels at delivering that authentic charcoal flavor that enthusiasts crave. Competitors like the Akorn Kamado, which use a more budget-friendly material, might not provide the same depth of flavor. However, they often come at a lower price point, which could appeal to those new to charcoal grilling or with budget constraints.

Value for Money

While The Bastard Urban Small offers a premium feel and performance, it does come with a price tag to match. Models like the Char-Broil Kamander offer similar functionality at a lower cost, albeit with some compromises in build quality and heat retention.

Ultimately, if you're after a compact, high-performance charcoal barbecue with a premium feel, The Bastard Urban Small is a great choice. Yet, if budget constraints are a concern, exploring other options might be worthwhile.

The value for money aspect of the Bastard Urban Small is definitely worth a look. This compact charcoal barbecue falls into a higher price range compared to some other models out there. But is it worth the investment? Let's break it down.

First off, the build quality is top-notch. You’re getting a barbecue that’s built to last, with durable materials that can withstand regular use. This isn't a grill that will rust out after a season or two. So, while you might be paying a bit more upfront, it's designed to be a long-term companion for your backyard cookouts.

When it comes to performance, this barbecue excels in delivering consistent heat and fantastic flavor, which many cheaper models struggle with. The cooking experience is enhanced by its efficient heat distribution, allowing you to cook a range of foods to perfection.

However, it's important to consider the size. If you're planning on entertaining large groups frequently, the Bastard Urban Small might feel a bit limited due to its compact grilling surface. But if you're catering mostly to family or just a few friends, it’s perfectly adequate.

Another point to consider is the extras. It doesn’t come with a ton of accessories, so you might find yourself spending more to get those additional pieces you want, like a cover or a grill light.

In comparing it with competitors, you might find other brands offering more features in the same price bracket. But those options often sacrifice durability or cooking quality.

All in all, if you value quality and performance over extras and size, the Bastard Urban Small offers good value. Just weigh your needs and see if the investment aligns with your grilling goals.

Video by: BBQ Junkie

Wrapping things up, the The Bastard Urban Small proves to be a solid contender in the world of charcoal barbecues. Its compact size is perfect for those with limited space but still offers a robust grilling experience. The design is sturdy, and the materials used ensure it can withstand regular use. One of the standout elements is its performance, particularly how well it retains heat. This is essential for achieving that perfect sear on your steaks or slow-cooking a smoky rack of ribs. It's certainly an advantage for those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking styles. However, if you're new to charcoal grilling, the learning curve might be a bit steep due to the manual temperature control. But hey, practice makes perfect, right?

In terms of ease of use, it's quite user-friendly once you get the hang of managing the charcoal. The assembly is straightforward, and the instruction manual is clear and concise. On the downside, the compact size means you have limited cooking space, which might not be ideal for hosting larger gatherings.

When comparing it to its competitors, the The Bastard Urban Small holds its own, especially regarding build quality and heat retention. However, some might find its price a bit on the higher side, particularly when compared to similar models that offer more cooking space.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality, durable charcoal barbecue that fits in smaller spaces, this one is worth considering. Just keep in mind the balance between size and budget to ensure it suits your specific needs.

Q: Is the Bastard Urban Small suitable for beginners?

A: Absolutely! It's designed to be user-friendly, making it perfect for newbie grillers. The straightforward controls and easy-to-follow instructions make it a breeze for anyone to start grilling.

Q: What type of charcoal should I use?

A: Any high-quality hardwood charcoal will work well. However, lump charcoal is often recommended for a more authentic grilling experience. It burns hotter and cleaner, enhancing the flavor of your food.

Q: How long does it take to assemble?

A: Assembly is relatively quick. You can expect to have it up and running in about 30-45 minutes. The instructions are clear, and most of the parts fit together easily.

Q: Does it come with a warranty?

A: Yes, the Bastard Urban Small typically comes with a warranty, but it's a good idea to check the specific terms with your retailer. This will give you peace of mind in case any issues arise.

Q: Can it be used in windy conditions?

A: It performs well in most weather conditions, but strong winds can impact the heat consistency. Positioning it in a sheltered area can help maintain stable temperatures while cooking.

Q: Is it easy to clean?

A: Cleaning is straightforward but requires a bit of effort. The interior and grates can be cleaned with a grill brush, and it's good practice to do this after each use to maintain optimal performance.

Q: How portable is it?

A: While it's not the lightest option due to its sturdy build, its compact size makes it easier to transport than larger models. It's a great choice for small patios or even camping trips if you have space in your vehicle.

Q: What are the cooking capacity limitations?

A: The grill is ideal for small gatherings and family meals. However, if you're hosting a large party, you might find its cooking capacity a bit limited. Consider this if you frequently cook for many guests.

Q: Are there any issues with the design?

A: While the design is mostly robust, some users have noted that the handles can get quite hot. Always use heat-resistant gloves when grilling to avoid burns.

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