hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate Review: The 3-in-1 Backyard Centerpiece We Tested

There’s a certain magic to a backyard gathering. It’s the sound of crackling wood, the warmth of an open flame on a cool evening, and the shared stories that seem to flow more freely under the stars. For years, our patio setup was a patchwork of solutions: a standalone grill for cooking, a rickety side table for drinks, and a basic fire ring for warmth. It worked, but it was disjointed. The dream was always to find a single, elegant centerpiece that could do it all—a hub that could seamlessly transition from a sizzling barbecue grill to a cozy bonfire, and even serve as a casual table when the flames died down. The search for this perfect backyard hub is what led us to investigate products that promise versatility without compromise, a quest to simplify our outdoor living space while enhancing every moment spent in it.

Hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Cooking Grate & Charcoal Pan, Outdoor Wood Burning BBQ Grill...
  • 【3-IN-1 Outdoor Fire Pit】: Measures 35” Dia x 26” H, This wood burning fire pit from Hykolity features a multi-functional design, ideal for outdoor heating and grilling. The round cover lid...
  • 【Convenient Design】: The large cooking grate has a diameter of 18.5 inches, while the small one has a diameter of 15 inches, making it safe to cook on. With built-in handles at both ends, the...
  • 【Accessories Complete】: The fire pit also features a log rack, a charcoal pan, and a poker. The log rack can help promote efficient log burn while the charcoal pan can be placed into the fire pit...

What to Look for in a Multi-Functional Fire Pit

A multi-functional fire pit is more than just a steel bowl; it’s an investment in your home’s outdoor experience, a catalyst for creating memories. It solves the problem of a cluttered patio by consolidating the functions of a grill, a heat source, and an outdoor table into one stylish unit. The primary benefit is this incredible versatility. Imagine grilling burgers for dinner, then clearing the grates to enjoy a mesmerizing wood fire for s’mores, and finally, once the embers have cooled, placing a cover on top to hold drinks for a late-night chat. This consolidation of function saves space, money, and hassle, making your backyard the go-to destination for relaxation and entertainment.

The ideal customer for this type of product is the quintessential host, the family that lives on their patio during pleasant weather, or anyone who values efficiency and multi-purpose design. If you dream of cooking over a real wood fire one night and simply enjoying the ambiance the next, this is for you. Conversely, it might not be the best fit for those with very small balconies where a 35-inch diameter is too imposing, or for the camper who needs something highly portable and lightweight. Likewise, individuals living in areas with frequent fire bans might be better served by a propane-fueled alternative that offers more control and fewer restrictions.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

  • Dimensions & Space: A 35-inch total diameter is substantial. Before you buy, measure your intended space. You’ll need not only enough room for the unit itself but also several feet of clearance on all sides for seating and safety. Consider the height as well (22 inches in this case), as it will affect how you and your guests interact with the fire and tabletop.
  • Capacity/Performance: The heart of this unit is the 24-inch fire bowl. This size is generous enough to build a respectable, long-lasting fire that can warm a small group. For cooking, consider the grate sizes—18.5 and 15 inches. This dual-grate system offers significant surface area, allowing you to cook multiple types of food at once over a live fire.
  • Materials & Durability: This model is made from heavy-duty gauge steel with a powder-coated finish, designed to resist rust and weather. However, as with any steel product left outdoors, some maintenance is key. To ensure longevity, a cover is highly recommended, and periodic checks for any chips in the coating can prevent rust from taking hold. The circular steel ring connecting the legs is a critical feature for long-term stability.
  • Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the entire lifecycle. How difficult is the initial assembly? Most users report it takes about an hour. For ongoing use, think about cleanup. A removable ash pan is a luxury, but a simple bowl design like this is easily cleaned with a small shovel and brush once completely cool. The cooking grates will require scrubbing, just like any other grill.

Keeping these factors in mind, the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate stands out in several areas, particularly in its ambitious multi-functionality. You can explore its detailed specifications and features here.

While the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Bestseller No. 1
OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills, Wood Burning Fire Pits for Outside with Lid, Poker and Round...
  • [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not make fire and cover...
SaleBestseller No. 2
Panovue Fire Pit Table 32 Inch Square Metal Stove for Patio, Backyard, Garden | Multifunctional...
  • 3-in-1 Fire Pit: Panovue outdoor fire pit can provide inviting warmth for your patio, yard, or garden, also be used as an outdoor BBQ to cook food or as an ice bucket to keep beverages cold. When you...
SaleBestseller No. 3
OutVue 42 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills, Extra Large Wood Burning Fire Pits for Outside with Lid &...
  • [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop[No waterproof cover]. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not...

Unboxing the Hykolity: First Impressions and Key Features

The arrival of the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate was met with anticipation. The box is sizable and has some heft, weighing in at just over 30 pounds, which gave us an immediate sense of substance. Inside, each component was reasonably well-packaged. Laying out the pieces, the heavy-gauge steel felt solid to the touch, and the black powder-coated finish was smooth and consistent. The main components are the fire bowl, the four legs, the outer table ring, and the innovative cooking grate assembly. The assembly process, which we timed at just under an hour, was straightforward, though we recommend having a second person to help align the outer ring with the legs. We encountered none of the quality control issues like broken welds or missing parts that a few users have reported, suggesting our unit was a good example of the final product. What immediately sets it apart is the grilling rig—a tall steel pole that mounts to the side of the bowl, supporting two independent, swing-away cooking grates. This design felt clever and robust, promising a level of cooking control not often seen in combination fire pits.

What We Like

  • True 3-in-1 versatility: functions effectively as a fire pit, BBQ grill, and patio table.
  • Dual cooking grates that swivel 360 degrees and adjust vertically for excellent heat control.
  • Sturdy and stable construction, reinforced with a circular ring and a wide footrail.
  • Generous 35-inch diameter provides ample space for gatherings and a sizable fire.

Drawbacks

  • Powder-coated steel can be prone to surface rust if left exposed to the elements without a cover.
  • Some users have reported quality control issues upon arrival, such as broken welds or missing hardware.

Putting the Hykolity 3-in-1 to the Test: A Detailed Performance Review

A product that promises to be a jack-of-all-trades can sometimes end up being a master of none. Our goal was to push the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate through its paces in all three of its advertised roles. Over several weeks, it became the focal point of our backyard, hosting everything from quiet evening fires to a full-fledged family barbecue. We evaluated its construction, its performance as a fire pit, its prowess as a grill, and its utility as a table to see if it truly delivered on its ambitious promise.

The Heart of the Matter: Assembly and Performance as a Wood-Burning Fire Pit

Our assembly experience was smooth, aligning with reports from many users who found the instructions clear and the process manageable within an hour. All hardware was present, and the pre-drilled holes aligned perfectly. The finished product feels reassuringly stable. The four legs create a solid base, and the circular steel ring that connects them doubles as a convenient footrest—a feature we and our guests came to love. As one user noted, it’s a great place to rest your feet and keep them warm while sitting around the fire.

As a fire pit, the 24-inch diameter bowl is the main event. It’s wide enough to accommodate standard-sized logs and build a substantial fire that kicks off impressive warmth. We found it perfect for a group of 4-6 people to gather around comfortably. The included log rack is a simple but crucial component, elevating the wood to allow for better airflow from underneath. This resulted in a more efficient burn with less smoke than just piling logs on the bottom of the basin. While some have wished for a deeper bowl, we found the depth adequate for creating a lasting fire that burned for several hours without needing constant attention. The overall aesthetic is modern and clean, adding a touch of style to the patio even when unlit. Its 30-pound weight strikes a nice balance; it feels heavy and safe, as one owner noted after two years of use, but is still portable enough that two people can easily relocate it in the yard as needed.

Sizzling Success: Performance as a BBQ Grill

This is where the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate truly separates itself from the pack. The grilling system is not an afterthought; it’s an integrated, highly functional feature. The ability to use either wood or charcoal (thanks to the included charcoal pan) makes it a true hybrid. We tested it first with charcoal for a classic BBQ experience. The pan held a nice, even layer of briquettes, and the results were fantastic. Hamburgers and sausages cooked evenly with a beautiful smoky flavor.

The star of the show is the dual-grate system. The 18.5-inch and 15-inch grates are independently adjustable, both vertically and horizontally. This is a game-changer. We could sear steaks on the lower grate close to the hot coals while simultaneously warming buns or grilling vegetables on the upper grate. If a flare-up occurred, we could simply swing the grate out of the direct flame without disrupting the other. This flexibility, as one user who grilled in 15-degree weather pointed out, is phenomenal. You can move food to and from the heat with precision, tend the fire, and add more fuel, all without having to lift off a single, heavy, food-laden grill surface. Cleanup was also surprisingly simple. Echoing user feedback, the grill parts cleaned up easily with a standard wire brush. For an even quicker job, another user’s tip of wrapping the grates in aluminum foil worked brilliantly for messier items like marinated chicken.

From Fire to Function: The Tabletop Conversion and Durability

The third function—a patio table—is activated by the included steel cover lid. After the fire is completely extinguished and the bowl has cooled, the lid fits neatly over the opening, transforming the unit into a large, stable coffee table. At 35 inches across, it offers a generous amount of surface area for drinks, snacks, or even a board game. The surface is flat and sturdy, with no wobble. This feature is invaluable for maximizing the utility of a smaller patio, ensuring the fire pit serves a purpose even during the day or when a fire isn’t practical.

Durability is a key concern for any outdoor metal product. The heavy-duty steel construction feels built to last. However, the recurring theme in user feedback, and a point we must stress, is the potential for rust if the unit is left exposed to rain. The powder coating provides a good first line of defense, but any scratches or prolonged exposure to moisture will inevitably lead to surface rust. We strongly recommend investing in a waterproof cover to protect the fire pit when not in use. One user shared a clever tip: after cleaning, apply a light coat of cooking spray to the entire fire bowl and grates to create a protective barrier. With this small amount of preventative care, we believe the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit can provide years of enjoyment, just as it has for the customer who has been using theirs for family Christmas nights for two years.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment from other owners largely confirms our own findings. The overwhelming majority praise the product’s incredible versatility. One user perfectly summarized this, saying, “We can grill our favorite foods, use it as a fire pit on cool evenings, roast hot dogs and marshmallows with the grandchildren, or just use it as a table.” This 3-in-1 capability is consistently highlighted as its number one strength. The sturdiness and well-designed cooking grates also receive frequent compliments, with one owner noting they “are easy to use and the size is sufficient for the wood.”

On the critical side, the most common complaints revolve around quality control and long-term care. A handful of users reported receiving units with issues out of the box, such as a broken weld on a leg or missing hardware. However, it’s worth noting that in these cases, customer service was often praised for being responsive and resolving the issue. The other significant point of feedback is the tendency for the unit to develop surface rust if left uncovered in the rain. As one candid user stated, “I did not buy a cover so the top of the fire pit is starting to rust in some places… but overall for the price it is well worth it.” This feedback reinforces our recommendation to purchase a cover to maintain the pit’s appearance and longevity.

How the Hykolity Fire Pit Stacks Up Against the Competition

The hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate occupies a unique niche with its focus on cooking and versatility. To understand its value, it’s helpful to compare it against other popular options in the fire pit market, each of which caters to a different type of user.

1. SINGLYFIRE 22 inch Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit

SINGLYFIRE 22 inch Fire Pit for Outside Outdoor Wood Burning Small Bonfire Pit Steel Firepit Bowl...
  • RURABLE & RUST RESISTANT: Crafted with a heavy-duty steel frame and treated with high-heat paint, this fire pit ensures long-lasting durability and resistance against rust. It is built to withstand...
  • PERFECT SIZE FOR SMALL GROUPS: With an overall size of 22 inches in diameter and 20 inches in height, this fire pit is ideal for gatherings of 3-5 people. It provides a comfortable and intimate...
  • ENHANCED SAFETY FEATURES: Comes with a fire poker and a mesh spark screen. The fire poker enables you to move wood and lift the lid safely, while the spark screen prevents potentially dangerous fly...

The SINGLYFIRE is a classic, no-frills wood-burning fire pit. At 22 inches, it is significantly smaller, more portable, and more budget-friendly than the Hykolity model. Its primary function is to provide a safe and contained vessel for a bonfire. It comes with a spark screen and poker but lacks any cooking or tabletop functionality. This is an excellent choice for someone who wants a simple, traditional fire pit for warmth and ambiance in a smaller space or for occasional use. If your main goal is building a fire and you have no interest in grilling over it, the SINGLYFIRE offers a straightforward, affordable solution. The Hykolity, in contrast, is for the user who wants an all-in-one outdoor entertainment hub.

2. Outland Living Firebowl 870 Smokeless Propane Fire Pit

Outland Living Firebowl 870 Premium 19” Auto-Ignition Smokeless Propane Fire Pit – Outdoor Gas...
  • ✓ PERFECT NO MESS CAMPFIRE: Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane campfire. The perfect outdoor centerpiece for camping trips, RV...
  • ✓ COMPACT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Matchless auto-ignition feature ensures a fast and simple...
  • ✓ BEAT THE CAMPFIRE BAN: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect...

The Outland Living Firebowl represents a completely different approach to outdoor warmth. As a propane-fueled fire pit, its key advantages are convenience and cleanliness. There is no wood to chop, no smoke to dodge, and no ash to clean up. It ignites with the push of a button and can be turned off just as easily, offering superior safety and control. This makes it ideal for use on wood decks or in areas with strict burn bans. However, it cannot replicate the authentic crackle, smell, and intense radiant heat of a real wood fire, nor is it designed for cooking. The Hykolity is for the traditionalist who loves the full sensory experience of a wood fire and values the ability to grill, while the Outland Firebowl is for the modernist who prioritizes convenience, safety, and smokeless operation.

3. EAST OAK 17” Camber Smokeless Fire Pit

EAST OAK Camber Smokeless Fire Pit 17'', Stainless Steel Fire Pits for Outside Wood Burning Portable...
  • 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲: With an outer diameter of 16.85 inch and weight of 13.69 lbs, the portable outdoor fire pit is not only perfect...
  • 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 & 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿: East Oak smokeless fire pit breaks through the traditional parallel channel structure. Its innovative trapezoidal shape and double-bottom...
  • 𝟯𝟲𝟬 degree 𝗪𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘁𝗵: Unique circle-turned-square shape makes our fire pit produce a uniform flame and radiates a wider range of warmth...

The EAST OAK Camber brings modern engineering to the traditional wood fire. Its double-wall design creates a secondary combustion process that dramatically reduces smoke, offering a much more pleasant experience for those sitting around it. It is built from stainless steel for superior durability and has a more compact, portable design. This fire pit is for the user who loves burning real wood but hates having their clothes and hair smell like a campfire. While you can cook over it with accessories, its primary selling point is its smokeless technology. The hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate, by contrast, is a larger, more stationary centerpiece whose main innovation lies in its integrated, multi-functional grilling and table system rather than in smoke reduction.

Our Final Verdict: Is the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate Right for You?

After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate is a resounding success in its mission to be a versatile backyard centerpiece. It’s not just a fire pit with a grill grate tacked on; it’s a thoughtfully designed system where each function—fire pit, grill, and table—is executed remarkably well. The innovative dual-grate cooking system is its standout feature, offering a level of control and flexibility that elevates it far above most competitors in its price range. It’s sturdy, generously sized, and creates a wonderful social hub for any patio or backyard.

While it’s not without minor flaws, namely the need for a cover to prevent rust and the occasional quality control hiccup reported by some users, its overall value is exceptional. For the family that loves s’mores, the host who delights in grilling over an open flame, and anyone who wants to maximize the function of their outdoor space with a single, handsome unit, this product is an enthusiastic recommendation. It delivers on its promises and fosters the kind of memorable outdoor moments we all cherish. If you’ve decided the hykolity 35 Inch Fire Pit with Cooking Grate is the right fit, you can check its current price and complete details here.

Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API