SUNJOY 57 Inch 2-in-1 Chiminea Fire Pit & Grill with Removable Grill Grate and PVC Cover – Gray
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Sunjoy 57 Inch 2-in-1 Chiminea Review: Smoke-Free Fire or Just Pretty Metal?
There is a specific kind of frustration that comes with outdoor fire pits. You get the fire going, it looks perfect, and then the wind shifts, blowing a face-full of smoke directly at your guests. Enter the Sunjoy 57 Inch 2-in-1 Chiminea Fire Pit & Grill. It’s taller, it’s encased, and it promises to funnel that smoke upward—but I wanted to know if this “2-in-1” hybrid actually holds its own as a grill, or if you’re just paying for a glorified metal chimney.
I spent time digging into the build quality, the “grill” capability, and the inevitable maintenance that comes with steel outdoor heating. Here is the unfiltered breakdown.
🔥 The Quick Verdict
This is a fantastic ambiance piece. If you want a cozy, smoke-managing fireplace for your patio, it excels. If you’re looking to replace your dedicated gas grill for family BBQs, this is not it. It’s a great auxiliary cooking tool for hot dogs and burgers, but don’t sell your Weber just yet.
The Anatomy of the Sunjoy Chiminea
Standing at 57 inches, this piece definitely commands attention. It’s a powder-coated steel build, which is standard for this price point. The big selling point here is the chimney structure, which physically forces smoke upward instead of letting it drift into your living space.
What’s in the Box?
- The Unit: 57-inch powder-coated steel frame.
- Grill Hardware: Removable stainless steel grill grate.
- Safety Features: Mesh screen door to keep sparks contained.
- Maintenance: Removable ash tray and a fire poker.
- Extras: A PVC cover (do not skip using this!).
The Honest Truth: Pros and Cons
I’ve looked through feedback from homeowners who have put this thing through a season or two of weather. Here is the reality of owning one.
| The Good | The “Keep In Mind” |
|---|---|
| Smoke Control: The chimney design works; it keeps the smoke away from your face. | Rust Awareness: It’s steel. If you skip the cover or live in a humid/coastal area, rust is a real risk. |
| Versatility: Easy to switch between a fire pit and a light-duty grill. | Directional Heat: Like most chimineas, the heat is focused forward; it won’t heat a circle of people as well as an open fire pit. |
| Aesthetics: It looks like a high-end centerpiece, not a cheap bucket. | Assembly: It’s not complex, but it takes time. Bolt alignment can be finicky. |
Who Is This Deal Best For?
This chiminea isn’t for every backyard. You should look at this if:
- You have a smaller patio: The vertical design saves floor space, and the chimney keeps the air clearer in tighter quarters.
- You prioritize atmosphere: If your goal is “cozy night in,” the fireplace vibe is vastly superior to a standard ring fire pit.
- You’re a light-duty griller: If you love the idea of cooking a couple of sausages or a burger while the fire is going, this is perfect.
🛠️ Pro-Tip for Longevity
The included PVC cover is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have. Because this is powder-coated steel, moisture is your enemy. If you leave this out in the rain without protection, the finish will eventually flake. Use the cover religiously, and treat it like you would a good grill.
Final Verdict
The Sunjoy 57 Inch 2-in-1 Chiminea is a solid, stylish upgrade for anyone who finds standard fire pits too messy or smoky. It’s an “experience” piece. You’re buying it for the cozy factor and the ability to cook a snack over an open flame without feeling like you’re camping in the middle of a forest.
Is it a heavy-duty BBQ replacement? No. Is it a massive, expensive cast-iron relic that lasts forever? No. But for the price point, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your evening outdoor routine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the grill grate cook as well as a normal BBQ?
Not quite. It’s excellent for hot dogs, marshmallows, and simple burgers, but since it doesn’t have a lid to trap heat like a traditional kettle grill, it lacks the precision temperature control you’d want for a steak or chicken.
How hard is the assembly?
It’s manageable for one person, but much easier with two. The biggest challenge is just lining up the steel panels correctly—don’t tighten all the bolts until the whole frame is assembled to ensure a perfect fit.
