The grill is designed and cooks exceptionally well. The Joe Jr. is the perfect size for our family of 4.
MANUAL NEEDS TO BE UPDATED FOR JOE JR (reason for a one star deduction). Currently is does not even have a diagram showing the components included with the Joe Jr. Had to watch videos on You Tube to learn you to use this grill.
I was fired up about the KJ jr. and it has delivered on my lofty expectations. It took a few trial runs and YouTube videos to figure out how to control it, but it’s been smooth sailing ever since
I was contemplating purchasing a kamado grill for a while and after doing some research and figuring out what would suit my needs etc I had it narrowed down to 2 choices. The KJ Jr and another. As luck would have it I found a good deal on the KJ and the decision was made. I don't have anything to compare it to but I can tell it's a good quality. Everything fit together easily and precisely and none of the components are cheap or flimsy. I've only used it three times so far but the meals have been very tasty and the grill holds temps steady very well. It will take a little practice to get the temps and cooking times a little more precise but honing my skills is all the more reason to use it lol. I'm very happy with my decision to go with the KJ Jr and would recommend it to anyone looking for a small charcoal grill.
I bought this grill for smoking food items, but it can do so much more. The lump charcoal provides a great grilling flavor for meats and seafood. What I like is the grill is so easy to start with the the starter pack from Kamado Joe. Light the starter pack and in 15 to 20 minutes the food is ready to grill. Close the lid and open the air vents and everything is pretty much automatic. Need a hotter grilling surface, and you just open the air vents to increase the heat. This is not like those pellet grills that have one little burning spot which also needs an electrical cord to operate. When you reduce the air venting on the Kamado Joe you get the natural smoke flavor with a reduced heat. Throw in some apple or cherry wood on top of the lump fire wood and the food is enhanced with flavor. Great smoking for salmon! The best part is that when the grilling is finished, you close the vents and the fire will go out on its own. The wood that is not burned can be used for your next grilling adventure. The cleanup is super quick and easy. Open the air vent and slide out the ash tray. Dispose of the ashes and slide the ash tray back in for the next grilling time. How could that be any easier? I was convinced to purchase this grill over similar products by reading the Consumer Reports article. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone.
I've had my KJ since like 2009 and it's still the best money I've ever spent. I've made some upgrades along the way, but didn't absolutely need to because of failing parts. It's so comforting to know this is the last grill I'll ever need to purchase. Works equally great as a grill, pizza oven, and smoker.
I've had two classic 1's and a junior coming up on 2 years. Amazing appliances. Smoke , grill, bake, anything you want. Hardly cook inside at all anymore.