It is very hard to compare pro grills. The specs seem similar from BTU to gauge of metal. However, there are notable differences between all of them. DCS vs. Alfresco is a comparison of a smaller independent company versus a conglomerate. Both have their strengths.
We will be comparing the largest grills these two brands offer at 48 inch. As a FYI, we will be cooking on these grills throughout April and May. You can receive alerts by subscribing to our BBQ newsletter.
Alfresco
Alfresco was launched in 2000 by Dale Seiden, former owner of the Lynx brand. Seiden pioneered the vision of the “outdoor kitchen” through Alfresco’s Open Air Culinary Systems bringing the features professional chefs demand into the backyard.
Their claim to fame is their chromium burner, which is resistant to the elements (important in New England).
Burners
- Unique dual-row, dual-port burner
- Industry-leading 27,500 BTU infared sear burner and is capable of reaching 1,500 degrees in only 4 minutes.
- Made from exclusive high-heat stainless steel
- Lifetime warranty on burner
- Three high-temp stainless steel burners totals 82,500 BTU
- 770 sq. in. actual grilling area plus four position adjustable warming rack
- 800 degrees surface temperature with 11,000 to 15,000 degree searing temperature
Types and Sizes
- Built-in or freestanding with carts
- 30", 36’’, 42", 56"
Rotisserie
- Chain-driven rotisserie with hidden built-in motor features roller bearings that eliminate need for counterweight
- Flush-mounted ceramic infrared burner produces direct, high-heat that locks in juices and flavor
Unique Features
- Porcelain ceramic briquettes have special pyramid shape and cavity back to collect and evenly distribute heat. The slightly porous material traps juices, allowing them to vaporize and return to the food as flavorful smoke
- Integrated cooker with dedicated 7,000 BTU stainless steel accommodates wood chunks for cold smoking. Smoke ejector system
- 304-grade stainless steel with hand-polished accents
- Heli-arc welding
- Double wall construction locks in heat to ensure accurate temperature in the grill
- Cart has a built-in refrigerator to keep your food cold and fresh before and after cooking (on select models only)
- User-friendly pushbutton ignition with sealed 9v power source
- Halogen work lights
Pricing (with cart) - $10,299
DCS
DCS is an appliance brand known for its professional style cooking products and outdoor barbecues. DCS was a brand purchased by Fisher & Paykel, a conglomerate out of New Zealand known for manufacturing apartment size refrigeration, laundry, and dishwasher drawers. DCS began manufacturing cooking products in the late 80’s.
Today, DCS markets grills to customers who are looking to incorporate commercial cooking technology into a residential application.
Burners
- 4 x 25,000 BTU burners
- 855 square inches cooking area
Types and Sizes
30’’, 36’’ 48’’ models
Rotisserie
- Heavy duty rotisserie motor
- 18,000 BTU Rotisserie Burner
Unique Features
- Double sided stainless steel cooking grates (36’’ and 48’’ models)
- Removable stainless steel warming rack
- Designer metal control knobs
- Smoker tray with 3,500 BTU burner
Pricing (with cart) - $5,199
DCS BGC48-BQAR-N
Alfresco vs. DCS Pro BBQ Grills
Both are great grills without question. I like the construction of DCS, but Alfresco does have a lifetime warranty on their vaunted chromium burners.
Alfresco offers a wide selection of outdoor kitchen appliances and accessories to complete your outdoor kitchen such as VersaPower cooking systems, side burner, wok, Teppanyaki griddle, bartending centers, sink systems, refrigeration, warming drawer, and various storage systems.
DCS offers a limited selection of outdoor refrigeration, storage, and a warming drawer. Their line is a little more limited than the Alfresco product but still offers staple pieces that most people incorporate into their outdoor kitchens.
DCS is also much less expensive, almost $4,000 less, with the ability to sear anywhere. Alfresco does have a more powerful sear at 27,500 BTU.
The real important questions: How do they actually cook and how reliable have yet to be determined. Both are relatively new to us, as I said before we will be cooking on both throughout the month.
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Additional Resources
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