10 Things To Know Before Buying a [Chicago Brick] Oven

Investing in a Chicago Brick Oven (CBO) is a significant decision that can elevate your indoor or outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re new to wood-fired cooking or a seasoned outdoor chef, it’s essential to understand your options to ensure you choose the right oven. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing your CBO oven.

1. Wood-Burning vs. Hybrid Ovens

Chicago Brick Oven specializes in Wood-Burning and Hybrid Ovens:

• Wood-Burning Ovens: CBO offers wood-burning models in the 500, 750, and 1000 sizes. These ovens provide the traditional wood-fired cooking experience, delivering the rich, smoky flavors that enhance any dish.
• Hybrid Ovens: Available exclusively in the CBO 750 size, Hybrid models offer unmatched versatility. These ovens can operate on wood, gas, or a combination of both. They are available as both DIY kits and fully assembled units, with options for both Liquid Propane (LP) and Natural Gas (NG) variants.

2. DIY/Modular vs. Assembled Ovens

Consider the level of involvement you want in building your oven:

• DIY/Modular Kits: CBO offers DIY/Modular ovens in all sizes (500, 750, and 1000). These kits allow you to construct your oven from the ground up, offering the satisfaction of a hands-on project and the ability to customize your setup.
• Assembled Ovens: If you prefer a more convenient option, CBO provides fully assembled ovens for the 500 and 750 models. These units come ready to install on a countertop or as a stand-alone unit, so you can start cooking right away.

3. Countertop vs. Stand Units

Depending on your outdoor space and design preferences, you can choose between countertop and stand units:

• Countertop Models: Available in both wood-burning and hybrid configurations, the countertop models are designed to fit seamlessly into your outdoor kitchen. The 750 hybrid countertop offers two installation options:
  • Sunken Installation: This model sits like a built-in grill, with the gas compartment and sub-hearth burner located below the countertop, offering a sleek, integrated look.
  • Above-Countertop Installation: This version features a metal “skirt” around the gas components below the hearth and sits higher on top of the countertop.
• Stand Units: The 750 hybrid stand model comes on a static stand without casters, ensuring safety when connected to a gas line. For wood-burning options, the 750 size is available on a mobile stand with casters, making it easy to move around your outdoor space.

4. Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the ideal location for your Chicago Brick Oven is crucial:

• Outdoor Setup: CBO ovens are primarily designed for outdoor use. Ensure you have adequate space for the oven, whether it’s installed on a countertop or a stand.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential, especially for hybrid models that use gas. Ensure your installation meets local building codes and safety standards.

5. Access and Installation

Before purchasing, consider how the oven will be delivered and installed:

• Access Considerations: CBO ovens are substantial in weight, especially the larger models. Make sure there’s a clear path to the installation site. For tighter spaces, the DIY/Modular kits are ideal since they come in manageable pieces.
• Stand and Countertop Installation: Consider how your oven will be installed. Countertop models require a sturdy base, while stand models offer flexibility with their mobile or static stands.

6. Thermal Mass and Heat Retention

Thermal mass is key to a great cooking experience:

• Refractory and Ceramic Materials: CBO ovens are built with high-quality proprietary refractory mix and a ceramic insulation blanket wrapped around the dome, ensuring superior heat retention and even cooking temperatures.
• Optimal Dome Thickness: The ovens are engineered with the ideal dome thickness of 2 inches to balance heat retention and efficient cooking, ensuring even heat distribution across the cooking surface.

7. Heat-Up Time and Cooking Capacity

The size and build of your oven affect its heat-up time and cooking capacity:

• Quick Heat-Up Times: CBO ovens, with their advanced insulation and refractory materials, heat up quickly, reaching optimal cooking temperatures in about 20-30 minutes.
• Cooking Capacity: The CBO 500 is perfect for small gatherings, while the larger CBO 750 and CBO 1000 models are ideal for larger groups or commercial use.

8. Flexible Fuel Options

CBO’s Hybrid models offer unmatched flexibility:

• Wood, Gas, or Both: The 750 Hybrid model allows you to choose between wood, gas, or a combination of both. This flexibility is perfect for those who want the convenience of gas with the flavor benefits of wood. Hybrid models are available in both Liquid Propane (LP) and Natural Gas (NG) variants, allowing you to choose the best option for your setup.
• Efficient Operation: The gas burner can quickly bring the oven up to temperature, and wood can be added during cooking to impart traditional flavors.

9. Customization Options

Make your Chicago Brick Oven uniquely yours:

• Exterior Finishes: Customize your oven with a variety of finishes, including stucco, tile, or steel, to match your outdoor space.
• Installation Options: Choose between sunken or above-countertop installations for hybrid models, and add a stand if you prefer a free-standing unit.

10. The Buying Process

Purchasing a Chicago Brick Oven is simple and supported:

• Online Shopping: Explore models, get quotes, and purchase directly from the CBO website.
• Customer Support: CBO’s team is ready to assist with questions, provide quotes, and guide you through the buying process, ensuring a smooth and satisfying purchase experience.