When it comes to outdoor entertaining, nothing beats the combination of great food, good company, and the warmth of a roaring fire. Nick’s outdoor setup perfectly embodies this philosophy, blending functionality with a sense of occasion.
Over the past 12 months, Nick has been making the most of the Escea EK1250 outdoor fireplace he installed in his backyard, using it as both a serious cooking tool and a social hub for gatherings.
He describes his outdoor fireplace as “a team event.” He loves how it fosters a sense of inclusion, with friends and family eager to pitch in.
“Everyone wants to get in and help,” he says, describing every gathering a collaborative feast, “I’ve got friends that bring marinated vegetables, I provide the meat, people bring the wines and beers, and we just get great results every time!”
The fireplace’s versatility is one of Nick’s favourite features. After cooking, he removes the trays and transforms the setup into a roaring fire for marshmallow toasting with the kids. “You cook over wood, have beautiful food, and then enjoy a great open fire at the end.”
Using an outdoor fireplace does require a bit of preparation. Nick admits it’s not the go-to choice for last-minute barbeques. “It’s not like turning on a Webber,” he laughs, “it’s a two-beer setup.” Depending on whether he’s using charcoal or wood, it can take 30 minutes to an hour to get the perfect cooking heat.
While Nick uses his fireplace just about every second weekend, he finds it especially enjoyable in the cooler months. “Peak summer isn’t ideal—it’s a hot experience,” he explains, “and there are fire bans to consider.” For most of the year, however, from autumn through to late spring are his prime entertaining seasons, offering the perfect balance for both cooking and warmth.
From beautifully cooked meals to roasted marshmallows around a roaring fire, Nick’s outdoor cooker has become more than just a way to prepare food, it’s a centrepiece for getting family and friends together, enjoying the outdoors, and entertaining at its finest.