For BBQ enthusiasts who crave authentic, wood-fired flavor and precise cooking control, the Santa Maria-style BBQ grill stands as a timeless icon of outdoor cooking. Originating from California’s Central Coast, this grill design was born from ranch culture and community feasts, and it has evolved over decades to meet modern demands—most notably with the rise of the stainless Santa Maria grill for durability and the custom Santa Maria grill for personalized functionality. Whether you’re a backyard hobbyist, a competition pitmaster, or someone who loves hosting outdoor gatherings, understanding these three variants will help you find the perfect grill to elevate your BBQ game.

At its heart, a Santa Maria-style BBQ grill is defined by two non-negotiable features that set it apart from standard grills: an adjustable cooking grate and an open-fire design. Unlike fixed-grate grills, this style uses a crank or wheel mechanism to raise or lower the grate—letting you control the distance between your food and the hot coals (or wood) with precision. Lower the grate for searing thick-cut steaks, burgers, or chorizo to lock in juices with a crispy crust; raise it for low-and-slow cooking of ribs, brisket, or whole chickens, avoiding flare-ups and ensuring even doneness.

For those who want the classic Santa Maria experience without the hassle of constant upkeep, the stainless Santa Maria grill is a game-changer. Unlike traditional steel grills that are prone to rust and corrosion (especially when exposed to rain, humidity, or salt air in coastal areas), stainless steel models offer unmatched durability and longevity.Most high-quality Santa Maria stainless steel grills use stainless steel as the furnace, grille, and frame. Stainless steel has anti rust and anti fouling properties, making it very suitable for backyard use and also commonly used in commercial or coastal environments, which increases its additional corrosion resistance to saltwater and harsh weather conditions. These grills also require minimal maintenance: quick wiping and occasional cleaning of the grills after use can maintain optimal condition.

For BBQ lovers who refuse to compromise on size, features, or style, a custom Santa Maria grill is the ultimate choice. Customization options let you design a grill that fits your space, cooking habits, and aesthetic preferences—whether you’re looking for a compact portable unit for tailgating or a massive built-in grill for a commercial BBQ joint.
Common customizations for a custom Santa Maria grill include: 
- Size & Cooking Surface: Choose from small 24-inch grates for intimate family meals to 60-inch+ surfaces for catering large events or feeding a crowd. 
- Additional Features: Add a rotisserie kit for whole pigs or turkeys (a staple in Argentine asado-style cooking), a side smoker box for cold smoking, warming racks, or built-in storage for wood and tools. 
- Material Combinations: Mix stainless steel with heavy-gauge steel for a balance of durability and affordability, or opt for all-stainless steel for a premium finish. 
- Portability vs. Stationary: Design a foldable custom Santa Maria grill for camping or tailgating, or a permanent built-in model to integrate with your outdoor kitchen (complete with stone or brick surrounds for a rustic look).