EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill Review: The All-in-One Backyard Centerpiece We Tested

There’s a specific moment each year when the evening air gets that first crisp chill, and the desire to linger outdoors clashes with the need for warmth. For years, our patio felt incomplete, a space for daytime lounging that emptied out as soon as the sun dipped below the horizon. We wanted more than just a place to sit; we craved a focal point, a reason to gather, share stories, roast marshmallows, and extend our precious outdoor season. The problem was the sheer clutter of options. Did we need a fire pit for warmth? A barbecue for cooking? A table for drinks? Our search was for a single, elegant solution that could do it all without monopolizing our precious patio real estate, transforming our backyard from a simple space into a true destination.

What to Consider Before Buying a Fire Pit

A fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating ambiance, warmth, and a social hub in any outdoor space. It’s the catalyst for late-night conversations, a source of primal comfort, and a functional tool for cooking. The main benefit lies in its ability to transform a cold, empty patio into an inviting, year-round living area. Choosing the right one, however, requires careful consideration of how you intend to use it, the space you have, and your tolerance for maintenance. It’s an investment in your home’s outdoor lifestyle.

The ideal customer for this type of multi-function product is someone who values versatility and efficiency. You might be a homeowner with a moderately sized patio who wants to maximize functionality without buying three separate pieces of equipment. You host gatherings and love the idea of transitioning from a casual dinner grilled over the fire to a cozy bonfire. This product is also great for RV enthusiasts who need a portable, off-the-ground fire solution, as some campgrounds have strict rules. However, it might not be suitable for those who have a dedicated, built-in outdoor kitchen and fire feature, or for someone who prioritizes extreme durability and heavy-gauge steel above all else and is willing to pay a premium for it. For those seeking only a cooking surface, a dedicated grill might be a better choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: A 36-inch diameter is a substantial size, creating a significant focal point and accommodating a good number of people around it. Before purchasing, measure your intended area. Ensure you have at least 3-4 feet of clear, non-flammable space around the pit for seating and safe movement. Consider its height as well; lower pits provide a more traditional campfire feel but may pose a risk to lawns if not placed on a protective surface.
• Capacity/Performance: The depth and diameter of the fire bowl determine the size of the fire you can build. The EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill offers ample room for several standard logs, providing significant heat output. Performance also includes airflow; look for features like a log grate that lifts the wood, allowing oxygen to circulate underneath for a more consistent, less smoky burn.
• Materials & Durability: Most fire pits in this price range are made from powder-coated or high-temperature painted steel or iron. While this finish provides initial resistance to rust and weather, it’s not permanent. We’ve seen from experience and user feedback that with intense heat and exposure to the elements, these coatings can eventually flake or peel. Heavier gauge metal will always offer better heat retention and a longer lifespan, but it comes at a higher cost and weight.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Assembly should be straightforward, and the EcoNook excels here, with most users reporting setup in under 15 minutes. For maintenance, consider how you’ll clean out the ash. A single drainage hole can be both a pro (lets rainwater out) and a con (can let hot embers fall through). A full-coverage waterproof cover, like the one included here, is non-negotiable for protecting your investment and prolonging its life.

While the EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the EcoNook Fire Pit

The EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill arrived in a surprisingly compact, well-secured box. Upon opening it, every component was neatly arranged and protected from shipping damage—a good sign right from the start. We laid out the pieces: the main fire bowl, the four legs, the outer ring, the spark screen, the metal lid, the cooking grate, the log grate, and a small bag of hardware. The instructions were clear and diagram-based, confirming what many users noted: assembly is a breeze. With just 12 screws to attach the legs and outer ring, the entire unit was standing and ready in about 10 minutes. The finish immediately stands out; the black and gold patina gives it a more premium, rustic look than a standard all-black model. It feels substantial enough to be sturdy but, at just over 41 pounds, it’s light enough for two people to move easily, a feature praised by users who take it on RV trips.

A Deep Dive into the EcoNook’s Triple-Threat Performance

A product that promises to be a jack-of-all-trades can sometimes end up being a master of none. Our primary goal was to determine if the EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill could genuinely excel in all three of its roles. We spent several weeks putting it through its paces, hosting bonfires, grilling meals, and using it as a central patio table to see how it held up in real-world scenarios.

Function 1: The Classic Wood-Burning Fire Pit Experience

As a fire pit, the EcoNook performs admirably. Its 36-inch diameter provides a generous canvas for a beautiful, roaring fire. We started by placing the included log grate at the bottom of the bowl. This small accessory is crucial, as it elevates the wood, allowing air to circulate underneath. This resulted in a fire that was easy to start and maintained a strong, consistent burn with noticeably less smoke than pits without this feature. The depth of the bowl is sufficient to contain the logs and embers safely, and the heat radiating from it was more than enough to keep a group of six comfortably warm on a cool evening.

The mesh spark screen fits securely over the top, doing an effective job of containing popping embers and adding a significant layer of safety, especially when kids or pets are around. The included fire poker is basic but functional for adjusting logs and lifting the hot screen. However, we must address a critical design point echoed in several user reviews: the single, small drainage hole in the center of the bowl. While intended to let rainwater escape, it can also allow small, hot embers to fall through onto the surface below. During our test on a stone patio, this wasn’t an issue. But multiple users reported scorched patches on their lawns. We strongly concur with their advice: you absolutely must place this fire pit on a non-flammable surface like pavers, a stone patio, or a heat-resistant fire pit mat. This is a crucial safety step that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Function 2: Sizzling Success as a Backyard BBQ Grill

Transforming the fire pit into a grill is as simple as letting the wood burn down to a hot bed of coals and placing the included cooking grate on top. The grate is large enough to cook for a small family, easily holding about 8-10 burger patties or a dozen hot dogs. We decided to grill some bratwursts and corn on the cob, and the experience was fantastic. It adds an interactive, rustic element to outdoor cooking that you just don’t get with a standard gas grill. The flavor from the wood smoke infused the food beautifully. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its size.

The grate itself is sturdy enough for standard use, and cleaning was straightforward. The key is managing your fire; you need to plan ahead to have those perfect cooking coals. This isn’t a “turn it on and cook in 5 minutes” solution like a gas grill, but that’s part of the charm. One user mentioned loving that they could burn scrap wood and cook a few brats on it, and we completely understand the appeal. This feature truly elevates the product from a simple heat source to a multi-functional outdoor appliance, making it a fantastic value.

Function 3: The Elegant Patio Table and Long-Term Durability

Perhaps the most clever feature of the EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill is its ability to convert into a handsome patio table. After the fire is completely extinguished and the bowl has cooled, placing the patterned metal lid on top creates a 30.5-inch round table. This is incredibly useful. It protects the fire bowl from rain and debris while providing a stable surface for drinks, snacks, or a small potted plant when not in use. It ensures the fire pit remains a functional and attractive centerpiece even when it’s not lit.

This is also where we need to discuss long-term durability, a topic that surfaced in user feedback. The overall construction is made of powder-coated iron. While satisfactory for the price, it is a thinner gauge metal. One user noted that after three months, the paint on the tabletop cover began to come off. Another reported that the protective fire coating inside the bowl flaked off after one season of use and proper storage. While our short-term testing didn’t reveal these issues, this feedback is crucial for setting realistic expectations. This is not a lifetime, heavy-duty steel product. To maximize its lifespan, we highly recommend using the included waterproof cover religiously and storing the unit in a dry place during harsh winter months. The value is in its versatility, but its longevity will depend heavily on user care.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the sentiment for the EcoNook fire pit is largely positive, with users frequently highlighting its incredible value and ease of assembly. One person summed it up perfectly: “12 screws and it’s assembled. Easy peasy… Overall decent value for what you get!” Another was thrilled with the all-inclusive package, stating they “loved everything about this grill. easy to assemble and came with grill for top and grill for drainage, plus a poker, top for table and cover for winter.”

However, the constructive criticism is just as important and consistent. The most common issue is its low height. As one user warned, “The grass under the pit burned because it got so hot. I’d suggest getting pavers for underneath if you don’t have a porch for it.” We can’t stress this enough. The second area of concern revolves around long-term durability. We saw reports of the paint on the lid peeling and the heat-resistant coating inside the bowl flaking off after extended use. One user even had the handle on the lid break after just two uses. These points suggest that while the initial quality is good for the price, users should be prepared for potential cosmetic wear and tear over time.

How Does the EcoNook Stack Up Against the Alternatives?

The EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill offers a unique blend of features, but it exists in a crowded market. Here’s how it compares to other popular options you might be considering.

1. BALI OUTDOORS 32-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Grill

The BALI OUTDOORS fire pit is a direct competitor, focusing on a similar fire-and-grill functionality. At 32 inches, it’s slightly smaller than the EcoNook. Its key feature is an outer ledge that goes all the way around the pit, providing a convenient place to rest drinks or grilling tools. However, it lacks the solid metal lid that allows the EcoNook to fully convert into a usable table. If your primary needs are a fire pit and a grill, and you value that built-in ledge, the BALI is a strong contender. If you want the added utility of a full-fledged coffee table, the EcoNook holds the edge.

2. CITYBONFIRES Portable Fire Pit 2-Pack

This product is in a completely different category and serves a different purpose. The CITYBONFIRES are mini, portable, self-contained fire pits that use non-toxic soy wax for a clean, smoke-free burn lasting 3-5 hours. They are perfect for small apartment balconies, tabletop S’mores sessions, or camping trips where you need an instant, hassle-free fire. They are not designed to provide significant heat for a large group or to be a permanent backyard fixture. Someone would choose this over the EcoNook for ultimate portability, convenience, and use in spaces where a wood-burning fire is not practical.

3. Mystical Fire Color Changing Packets

This isn’t a fire pit at all, but an accessory that enhances the experience of any wood-burning fire. Tossing one of these unopened packets into the flames of the EcoNook (or any similar fire pit) creates vibrant, long-lasting colors of blue, green, and purple. It’s a purely aesthetic and entertaining add-on that’s fantastic for parties or delighting children. You wouldn’t buy this *instead* of the EcoNook, but it’s an excellent, inexpensive product to buy *with* it to add a touch of magic to your backyard bonfires.

Final Verdict: A Versatile and Stylish Choice with Caveats

After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, our verdict is clear: the EcoNook 36 Inch 3-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill is a fantastic value for anyone seeking maximum functionality from a single piece of outdoor furniture. Its ability to seamlessly transition from a robust fire pit to a capable grill to a stylish patio table is its killer feature, making it a true centerpiece for any backyard gathering. The attractive design, complete accessory package, and incredibly simple assembly make it an accessible and rewarding purchase right out of the box.

However, this recommendation comes with two important conditions. First, due to its low profile and the small ember hole, it is imperative to use it on a fire-safe surface like concrete, stone, or a specialized heat mat to avoid damaging your lawn or deck. Second, prospective buyers should have realistic expectations about its long-term durability. While it performs well, the thinner metal and coated finish mean it will require care—consistent use of the cover and off-season storage—to prevent rust and wear. If you understand these limitations and prioritize versatility and style at an affordable price, this fire pit is an excellent investment that will undoubtedly enhance your outdoor living space. You can check the latest price and secure one for your patio today.