Quick answer
The Argentine Santa Maria BBQ Grill and the Heritage Argentine BBQ Grill are both authentic Gaucho-style grills, but the Premium model offers a larger cooking area and more robust construction, making it better for bigger gatherings, while the Heritage model is a more compact, budget-friendly option for smaller spaces.
Key differences between Argentine and Santa Maria grills
The terms Argentine grill and Santa Maria grill are often used interchangeably, but they refer to the same open-fire cooking tradition. Both designs feature a rectangular firebox, an adjustable grate system, and a chimney for draft control. The main difference lies in the size, materials, and included features, which affect cooking capacity and durability.
Backyard Discovery offers two models that embody this tradition: the Premium Argentine/Santa Maria BBQ Grill and the Premium Heritage Argentine BBQ Grill. Both are built for wood and charcoal, but they cater to different needs.
Tradeoffs to consider
- Cooking area and capacity: The Premium Argentine/Santa Maria model is larger and better suited for feeding a crowd, while the Heritage model is more compact and ideal for smaller families or limited patio space.
- Fuel flexibility: Both grills support wood and charcoal, but the Premium model's larger firebox may hold more fuel for longer cooking sessions without refueling. If you often cook for hours, the Premium model reduces the need to add fuel mid-session.
- Price and value: The Premium model costs more but includes a heavier build and larger cooking area. The Heritage model is more affordable and still delivers authentic results. Choose the Heritage if budget is a primary concern; invest in the Premium for long-term durability and capacity.
Product facts at a glance
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Premium Argentine/Santa Maria BBQ Grill with Wood Fire and Charcoal Grill: Meticulously crafted for authentic Gaucho-style grilling, combines traditional features with innovative design to accommodate both wood and charcoal. This model gives you the flexibility to use either fuel source, so you can experiment with smoky wood flavors or stick with convenient charcoal.
Premium Argentine/Santa Maria BBQ Grill with Wood Fire and Charcoal Grill
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Premium Heritage Argentine BBQ Grill: Built with heavy-duty steel grill grates that adjust to multiple heights for precise control over searing and slow cooking. The adjustable grate system lets you fine-tune heat exposure, making it easier to achieve perfect results for different cuts of meat.
Premium Heritage Argentine BBQ Grill
Which grill fits your backyard?
Best for
- Home cooks who host large gatherings and want maximum cooking space and fuel capacity
- Grill enthusiasts who value heavy-duty construction and plan to use the grill frequently
Not for
- Those with very limited patio space or a tight budget who still want authentic Gaucho-style grilling
- Cooks who only need a compact grill for occasional use and prefer a lower upfront investment
