Summer in the UK is synonymous with BBQs, garden gatherings, and lazy evenings with the smell of grilled food in the air. But what if you don’t have a grill, the space to set one up, or simply want to skip the prep and cleanup? The good news is you can still enjoy BBQ vibes, smoky flavours, and sunny-day indulgence—no barbecue equipment required. Here’s how to make the most of BBQ weather by creating a great experience through smart ordering, garden styling, and creative alternatives.
1. Recreate the BBQ Atmosphere in Your Garden or Balcony
Even without a grill, you can still set the scene. Focus on the environment: picnic tables, fairy lights, reusable cutlery, and colourful napkins create the feel of an outdoor feast. If you’re hosting guests, bring out lawn games or a small speaker for music. Scatter cushions, serve drinks in mason jars, and let the warm weather do the rest. The setting is half the experience—and entirely achievable with minimal effort.
2. Order in Grilled Favourites from Local Restaurants
Craving flame-grilled burgers, sticky ribs, or kebabs? No need to stand over charcoal. Many local restaurants and takeaways specialise in BBQ-style dishes and deliver them fresh to your door. Use platforms like Just Eat to explore nearby options offering chargrilled meat, marinated vegetables, and smoky sauces.
Look for:
- American BBQ spots with brisket and pulled pork
- Turkish or Lebanese places offering grilled lamb, chicken skewers, and wraps
- Gourmet burger joints with flame-grilled patties and loaded fries
Let the professionals handle the grill while you enjoy the weather, your guests, or a solo summer evening.
3. Create a BBQ Platter Using Delivery Options
Instead of ordering a single dish per person, combine multiple smaller orders into one shared BBQ-style feast. Start with grilled mains—like chicken wings, sausages, or veggie skewers—and add classic sides such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, sweet potato fries, and garlic bread.
Use serving boards or platters to arrange everything picnic-style. This turns a regular delivery meal into a social experience with variety, colour, and plenty to go around.
Suggested combo from delivery:
- Grilled chicken wings (mild or spicy)
- Halloumi or falafel skewers
- Flatbreads or buns
- Mixed dips: hummus, tzatziki, BBQ sauce
- Fresh salad or tabbouleh
It’s the easiest way to get the BBQ spread—minus the smoke and cleanup.
4. Reimagine Veggie BBQs with Creative Sides and Mains
Traditional BBQs aren’t always veggie-friendly, but your stay-at-home version can be. Many restaurants now offer excellent plant-based alternatives that carry the same BBQ feel, from jackfruit burgers to grilled corn salads and veggie sausages.
Order dishes that focus on charred vegetables, smoky spices, and rich marinades. Pair them with flavoured rice, couscous, or warm breads. For added flair, choose toppings like crispy onions, pickled veg, or chimichurri.
A vegetarian BBQ delivery lineup might include:
- Grilled aubergine with pomegranate and tahini
- Sweetcorn fritters
- Spiced cauliflower bites
- Veggie burgers with BBQ sauce
- Chopped salad with citrus dressing
The result? A colourful, satisfying BBQ spread that suits any palate.
5. Use Just Eat to Bring the BBQ to Your Door
When the sun is shining, the last thing you want to do is queue at the supermarket, marinate meat, and stand by a hot grill. Just Eat offers a faster, easier alternative by connecting you with nearby restaurants offering the BBQ flavours you’re craving.
Whether it’s:
- A full American BBQ plate with ribs and cornbread
- A Mediterranean mixed grill platter
- Korean BBQ wings and noodles
- Or simply a classic cheeseburger with fries
Just Eat helps you enjoy the food you love while you focus on the good weather and great company.
Browse your area, place an order, and turn your back garden into a grill-free celebration. 
Order at Just Eat
6. Cool Drinks and Sweet Additions to Complete the Vibe
No BBQ-inspired gathering is complete without drinks and dessert. Even if you’re not cooking, you can elevate the occasion with fun extras. Pick up iced teas, lemonade, craft beers, or fruit spritzers. Serve them in chilled glasses with fresh herbs or sliced citrus.
For dessert, some restaurants on Just Eat also deliver sweet treats—ice cream tubs, brownies, or fruit platters.
DIY ideas:
- Watermelon slices with mint
- Store-bought popsicles in a bucket of ice
- Pre-mixed cocktails poured over ice
- Chocolate cake slices from a local bakery
Mix these in alongside your food delivery, and you’ve got a full BBQ meal with zero prep.
7. Make It Social: Virtual BBQs and Shared Orders
Can’t gather in person? A virtual BBQ night can still create connection. Choose a date, ask friends to order similar dishes via Just Eat, and jump on a video call. Share your meals, rate your dishes, and enjoy the summer vibes together.
Group ordering features on many delivery apps make it easy to align everyone’s choices. For households or neighbours nearby, consider placing a joint order for variety and a shared experience.
Moments like this keep the BBQ spirit alive—grill or no grill.
8. Lean into the Ease: Enjoy More, Prepare Less
One of the underrated joys of skipping the grill is the simplicity it offers. No shopping lists, no meat thermometers, no burnt sausages. Instead, you get more time outdoors, less cleaning, and guaranteed results from a restaurant that knows what it’s doing.
A BBQ-themed delivery meal saves effort while still giving you the flavours, presentation, and seasonal atmosphere. You can style it your way—laid-back, family-friendly, romantic, or festive. The focus stays on enjoyment. Embrace the ease. Choose what you love. Let someone else handle the fire.
Final Thoughts: Celebrate BBQ Season Your Own Way
You don’t need a grill to enjoy BBQ season. With the right atmosphere, a great menu, and the convenience of services like Just Eat, anyone can create a delicious and memorable summer gathering.
This season, skip the prep and go straight to the good part. Whether you’re with friends, family, or enjoying solo downtime in the sun, great food makes the moment.
Get your BBQ vibes delivered. Order at Just Eat
