The Perfect BBQ Guide for Garden Parties
By Jack Robinson · Jack Robinson Catering, Harrogate
A great garden-party BBQ looks effortless and tastes like it took all day. The secret is planning, not luck. Here is how we approach live-fire catering for outdoor events around Harrogate and Yorkshire — and how you can borrow the thinking at home.
Plan your quantities
As a rough guide, allow around 300–400g of meat per adult across the day, plus two or three generous sides. It is always better to have a little left over than to run dry just as the second wave of guests arrives.
Build two heat zones
- A hot, direct zone for searing burgers, sausages and skewers
- A cooler, indirect zone to finish larger cuts gently without burning
- A resting area off the heat, loosely covered with foil
Think beyond the burger
Slow-smoked brisket, a whole hog roast or charred seasonal vegetables turn a BBQ into an event. Live fire adds smoke and depth you simply cannot fake indoors.
Do not forget the sides
Sharp slaws, charred flatbreads and a couple of punchy dressings keep things fresh between mouthfuls of rich, smoky meat. Balance is what stops a BBQ feeling heavy.
Would rather someone else tend the fire? Our BBQ & outdoor catering and hog roasts are built for relaxed garden parties — get a free quote.