Warning: Using Kamado May Cause Neighbors to Beg for Invites

If you’ve recently invested in a Kamado grill, you might want to brace yourself for an unexpected side effect: a sudden surge in friendly knocks on your door. Reports from backyard enthusiasts across the country are rolling in, and the consensus is clear—this versatile outdoor cooker has a reputation for turning ordinary cookouts into neighborhood events, with neighbors often showing up unannounced, noses twitching, and hoping for an invite.

But it’s not just the smell that draws people in. Kamados are known for their versatility. They can grill, smoke, bake, and roast, making them a one-stop shop for everything from weekend barbecues to gourmet dinners. This flexibility means Kamado owners are often the ones hosting impromptu gatherings, whether it’s a midweek cookout with friends or a Sunday brunch featuring smoked salmon.

It’s no secret that good food brings people together, but Kamado owners say the reaction from their neighbors is on another level. “I’ve had people text me asking what I’m cooking because they smelled it from down the street,” says Mark, a Kamado enthusiast from Colorado. “Once, my neighbor brought over a bottle of wine and said, ‘I know you’re using that grill—count me in.’”

Part of the appeal is the social vibe that comes with Kamado cooking. Unlike quick grilling sessions, smoking meat or baking pizza in a Kamado takes time, which means owners are often outside, chatting with passersby or inviting neighbors to hang out while they wait. It’s a low-pressure way to connect, and before you know it, a solo cooking project turns into a neighborhood party.

So, fire up your Kamado, enjoy the smells, and get ready—your next cookout might be more crowded than you expected. And that’s a warning we can all get behind.