Father's Day Grill Gifts: The Aussie Walkabout

So, Father's Day is almost here and you need a gift for dear ole dad hey? Dad likes to grill and you figure something in that department would be nice?

Charcoal or gas? That is the first question you must answer. Which one does your dad prefer to use? Usually men will get stuck on one or the other. Charcoal lovers feel that nothing beats the taste of meat cooked over live coals. There is just something about meat when it is slow cooked over hardwood charcoal which imparts a special flavor. Of course, you must spend some time getting that charcoal lit and burning and, when you are finished you must allow it to cool and then clean out the ashes.

On the other hand, gas grills light instantly and will be heated and ready to cook in about five minutes. When you are done you turn them off and clean the grill itself, no messy ash to let cool down and then have to throw out. Yes, gas is quick and easy to use.

Back to flavor though. If you want real flavor in your meat, gas just does not do it. You simply have to have charcoal for that, even if it takes a bit more time. Hey, the best things in life do take a bit more time, right?

Now, back to the base question, "What are you going to get dad for Father's Day?" If he is a serious griller then he probably already has a "large, fixed place grill." If he is a "serious griller" then it is also probably a charcoal grill. What about when he travels though? Does he ever go on a picnic or a family outing? If so what does he use then? Those appalling "park grills?" You know the ones I am talking about, they are on a stand by the picnic table in the park. There is a layer of rust an inch thick on them and who knows what kind of gunk is caked on the grill itself. No thanks, I'll pass. Maybe he uses one of those little round grills you can get at the grocery store for twenty bucks. You know the kind? You use them twice and they fall apart. A "hibachi" maybe? They are incredibly small and heavy. How about a real charcoal grill which is nice and portable?

Aussie Outdoor Livings' "Walk-A-Bout" grill is a compact, fold up, charcoal burning grill which is easily transportable. Best of all it is well made so that it will not simply fall apart like most, so called, "portable grills" do after a few uses. In fact, it is sturdy enough to be used as a primary grill if you have a small balcony or other limited space.

The Walk-A-Bout is simplicity itself; it is just a bowl on a hinged leg assembly with a locking mechanism and wheels. You fold it flat and roll it away. It has 332 square inches of cooking area and comes pre-assembled so all you have to do is unfold it, lock the legs, pull out the packing material and light it up. I have had mine for a year and it is holding up quite well and is easy to clean.

Walk-A-Bouts may be found at Wal-Mart, Lowes, Homes Depot, Kroger, and other similar stores. Prices range from $39.99-$59.99, depending on the season of the year and the store.