The Real Cost of Hosting a BBQ

BBQ season is upon us, I'm in the throes of putting together a monumental party together and I'm in the middle of sorting out some preparations. I wanted to put a list together of all the things I bought and some tips on hosting a BBQ for all your freeloader chums.

Buying the BBQ

How many times are you going to use the BBQ? For us perhaps 3-4 times a year maximum. So no need to go nuts, but you need something that can cater up to 20-30 people. We went low-to-mid range here. This 4+1 Burner Gas Barbecue with Warming Rack and Side Burner seemed to tick quite a few boxes, it's been reviewed well and we paid an extra £40 for some guy to assemble it. (Additional assembly also available when you pay through Amazon. £270 all in. 

Connecting Pipe

The BBQ did not come with a pipe despite what the comments say in the reviews. This Patio Gas Regulator will fit Calor and FloGas Propane cylinders and is also available on Amazon for £12.50.

Buying the Gas

We went through FloGas. The only downside is currently there is a quite a wait. Luckily we ordered it just in time for the BBQ but if you want something tomorrow, then I might recommend you shop around at petrol stations or go to B&Q direct. We bought the 11kg green cylinder. You have to pay an extra charge on the cylinder, then VAT then delivery. All in just over £100.

Meat

It's worth asking your local pub if they are willing to supply meat. They can even marinate if you ask nicely and then pick it up the night before. This will save you huge schlepps back and forth to M&S. We got a special price from our local The Roebuck in Chiswick, and told them to accommodate 30 people. If they need specifics on meat ask for the following assortment; burgers, bratwurst, nduja chicken skewer, bourbon pork belly strips, and minted lamb koftas. Expect to pay circa £300. 

Wine Tasting

We have hired a team of wine specialists to do a bespoke BBQ and wine pairing for the day. I won't give you the costings because I believe I got a special price because of being good friends with the founder. However, the wines we have been suggested are:

- Cremant x 4

- Riesling solitar Prum x 3

- Rose x 3

- Chianti Classico x 3

And the company you should hit up is How To Wine, ask for the wonderful Elena.

Other Food and Drink delivered to your door

I have put a list together of nibbles and extras which comes to circa £200. Ordered through Waitrose that do deliver.

Extra Wine

So your guests should bring a bottle of bubbly along if they're worth their salt, but lets face it, not everyone is that thoughtful. So best prepare and get a box of wine in. We got some extras from ALL ABOUT WINE that will come to about £90 a box. Yes they deliver.

 Photo by Marek Mucha on Unsplash