Best Gaucho Grills – When Tradition and Craftsmanship Meet

Some moments take us back to a simpler world, where emotions run deep, and the only limits are the ones we set for ourselves.

Cooking on a gaucho grill is one of those moments. Just as the gauchos once roamed the Pampas guided only by their will, having an Argentine-style grill lets you explore a world of open-fire cooking full of bold, limitless possibilities.

After all, grilling outdoors isn't just about the food: it's about becoming part of a tradition that goes back centuries. In other words, it's a celebration of the resilience and fierce independence of the gauchos—men who once braved the wild with nothing but a grill, a knife, and their willingness to survive.

That kind of spirit deserves to be honored in every possible way. So when you're shopping for a gaucho grill, make sure you choose a model that lives up to that legacy, meeting the highest standards of craftsmanship. 

However, with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you're struggling to find the perfect grill, keep reading—we’ve got your back.

What Makes Them Different?

Among the many types of wood-fired grills you can find out there (such as cross grills, Santa María grills, or meat hooks), gaucho grills stand out for their simplicity and versatility.

These are the classic grills long used by gauchos across South America, which is where they get their name, in case you were wondering what Gaucho means in BBQ. 

Gaucho grills are designed for open-fire cooking, whether you're using firewood or charcoal. They consist of a horizontal grate with narrow, closely spaced bars mounted on four legs.

Thanks to their simple structure, these grills are relatively easy to move from place to place, just like the gauchos did centuries ago as they roamed the Pampas freely.

Gaucho grills are typically made from iron or stainless steel to withstand the elements while also ensuring even heat distribution. Unlike Santa María-style grills, they don’t have adjustable height mechanisms. For this reason, it’s best to cook with hot embers rather than direct flames and to choose a model with legs that are at least 5 inches tall.

Though their design has barely changed since the days of the gauchos, modern versions include thoughtful upgrades. Some of the most common are V-shaped grates that catch dripping fat and prevent flare-ups, and side sections with built-in braseros (fireboxes) or griddles. 

These features aren't strictly necessary for a successful asado, but they can enhance your cooking experience. On the contrary, if you plan to take your grill on the go, handles are a must-have to make transportation easier.

This portability is what makes gaucho grills ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a great asado anytime, anywhere. Their simplicity also means they’re generally more affordable than specialized setups like Santa María grills or cross grills, making them a perfect entry point for anyone new to Argentine-style grilling.

Best Gaucho Grills for Outdoor Cooking

At Gaucho Life, we take pride in offering a curated selection of high-end grills designed to bring the authentic Argentine asado experience to your backyard.

We work exclusively with high-quality materials, and every grill we carry features unique characteristics that set it apart. However, among our gaucho grill collection, there are three standout models we’re especially proud of:

Stainless Argentine Grill. Built from 304 stainless steel, this grill is made to thrive outdoors, rain or shine. Other features that make them one of our best gaucho grills include:

• 7 mm rotatable rods that prevent warping, ensure even heat distribution, and make cleaning easier.

• Detachable legs that simplify transport and ensure the grill is stable on uneven surfaces.

• Three available sizes: Small (23.6" x 15.7"), medium (31.5" x 19.6"), large (39.3" x 19.6").

Argentine Iron Grill Set. This is a robust, all-iron grill set that includes a matching iron brasero (firebox) for continuous coal production. The grill itself is packed with practical details, such as:

• Removable rods for an easier cleanup.

• Adjustable-height legs that simplify the control of cooking temperatures.

• Fireproof coating for a sleek look and added protection against the elements.

• Three available sizes: Small (23.6" x 15.7"), medium (31.5" x 19.6"), large (39.3" x 19.6")

Classic Argentina Grill V Grate. The final entry in our lineup of the best gaucho grills is crafted from iron and includes an integrated side griddle, perfect for multi-dish grilling. Other features that make it special include:

• V-shaped grates that gather fat, preventing flare-ups, especially when grilling fatty cuts over high heat.

• Removable grate section for easier, thorough cleaning, essential for managing grease buildup in V grates.

• Two available sizes: Medium (31.5" x 19.6"), large (39.3" x 19.6")

• Custom sizes are available upon request.

All three models are built with durable materials, feature a clean, thoughtfully designed aesthetic, and include removable components that simplify maintenance. They also follow the same sizing scale to help you choose the one that fits your needs best. However, beyond these shared qualities, each grill has its strengths.

Rather than looking for “the best,” we recommend choosing the model that best suits your style of grilling. For instance:

• The Stainless Argentine Grill can be a great travel companion. While the lack of handles might be an inconvenience, it helps to make the grill easier to pack and store.

• The Argentine Iron Grill Set shines at BBQs where the grill is always full, as its brasero allows you to produce white-hot embers continuously.

• The Classic Argentina Grill with V Grate is perfect for grillers who like to get creative. The V grates prevent flare-ups, while the side griddle lets you cook multiple dishes at once without ever leaving the grill.

Built to Last: Choosing a Grill That Won’t Rust

Even the most budget-friendly grills are still an investment. Grills designed to last a lifetime are made from strong, high-quality materials that not only stand high temperatures and constant use without warping, but also endure poor weather conditions without rusting.

At retailers that specialize in quality grills, you’ll usually find models built from:

• Stainless steel 304. Ideal for outdoor grilling and humid climates. It resists harsh weather and salty coastal air, which can corrode lower-grade metals. For best results, choose a heavy-gauge model that retains heat effectively, as thinner steel may lead to uneven cooking.

• Powder-coated iron. Another rust-protected material, more affordable than stainless steel. However, powder coating can get damaged if exposed to direct flames, leaving the underlying iron vulnerable to rust. Again, thicker metal is better for heat retention.

• Carbon steel. Offers top-tier performance (heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly) but has no built-in protection against rust. To prevent corrosion, grills must be thoroughly cleaned, dried, and oiled after every use—something that might feel like a hassle if you're used to low-maintenance grills.

Which one is best? That depends on whether you prioritize superior performance, low maintenance, or budget-friendliness, as well as on your grilling style. 

However, if your main concern is to find a grill that won’t rust, stainless steel is the safest bet. Just remember that not all stainless steel is created equal, as lower-grade options can still rust over time.

Regardless of the material, proper grill care plays a major role in preventing corrosion. Here are a few best practices:

1. Clean your grill after each use, while it’s still warm and the grease isn’t completely solidified. Use a wire brush or scraper to remove residue and prevent oxidation.

2. Wipe it completely dry. This is particularly important if you’re using powder-coated iron grills.

3. Oil carbon steel and powder-coated grills before storing. Warm them slightly before applying oil so it can polymerize and form a protective layer.

4. For powder-coated grills, inspect the coating regularly. If you find any cracks or scratches, cover them with high-heat, rust-resistant grill paint to protect the metal underneath.

5. Use a weather-resistant grill cover for carbon steel and powder-coated iron models. While stainless steel doesn’t always require a cover, it’s still a good idea, especially if you're treating your grill as a long-term investment.

6. Remember that, although covers help, they can’t replace indoor protection against heavy rain or snow. Therefore, consider storing your grill in a sheltered area during harsh weather.
   
   

What’s the Best Wood for a Gaucho Grill?

Although you can technically use a gaucho grill with wood chips and pellets, a true Argentine grilling experience is firewood-fueled. 

In Argentina, we traditionally prefer hardwoods because they produce large, long-lasting embers that reach high temperatures and retain heat for extended periods. Softwoods (like olive, cherry, or apple) are often added in smaller amounts to infuse the meat with extra flavor through smoke.

Here are some hardwoods you can use to recreate the authentic Argentine grilling experience:

• Quebracho: Used in most Argentine asados, quebracho is an extremely dense hardwood often used as both firewood and lump charcoal. 

• Hickory is an excellent alternative, available in the U.S., as it delivers high heat output and extended burn time. It also gives meat a bold, smoky flavor with a bacon-like finish.

• Oak is a dense, slow-burning wood. It offers consistent heat and a milder smoky flavor, making it ideal for those who prefer a less intense aroma.

• Algarrobo (Carob): This tight-grain hardwood is known for retaining heat and burning slowly, reaching very high temperatures. 

• Mesquite burns much like algarrobo: slowly and steadily, with a very intense, earthy flavor. It doesn’t produce much smoke but delivers a lot of character to the meat.

This doesn’t mean you can only grill with these woods. Even in Argentina, where asado is practically a religion, people aren’t strange to using whatever firewood is available, even if it’s not quebracho or algarrobo.

However, not all woods are safe or suitable for grilling. Therefore, make sure to avoid the following

• Resinous woods (like pine or cedar): These give the meat a bitter flavor and can leave behind sticky residues.

• Treated or painted wood: Burning these releases chemicals that are unsafe to inhale.

• Green or wet wood: These woods don’t burn well, generate excessive smoke, and fail to create steady embers.

• Driftwood: Often soaked with salt, which can convert to toxic chlorine gas when burned.

FAQs: Gaucho Grills and Grilling Traditions

Let’s go quickly through some of the questions we often receive about gaucho grills.

What does Gaucho mean in BBQ?

In the BBQ context, “gaucho” often refers to a type of grill similar to those used by the gauchos in South America.

What is the best wood for a Gaucho grill?

At Gaucho Life, we recommend using hardwood for your gaucho grill. US-available options include hickory, oak, and mesquite.

Which grill is least likely to rust?

304 stainless steel grills are least likely to rust. Lower-quality stainless steel grills (like 430-grade ones) may rust over time.

What wood should you avoid for grilling?

For grilling Argentine-style, avoid resinous woods (conifers), unseasoned green wood, treated or painted wood, and driftwood.

The Gaucho Experience

Not all that glitters is gold—but a great grill is worth its weight in it, especially one that shines in more ways than one. A gaucho grill stands by you through thick and thin, on your back porch or out in the wild, as it’s built to withstand anything, just like the gauchos themselves.

At Gaucho Life, we take our role seriously, not just as makers of grills, but as keepers of a culinary tradition and a way of life. That’s why every grill we design seeks to reflect the quality, durability, and spirit of Argentine cooking.

Explore our site and discover a wide range of products carefully crafted to bring a taste of Argentine culture to your home.

Because for us, it’s not just about grilling—it’s a lifestyle.