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The streamlined Argentine Santa Maria. The Tagwood BBQ18SS delivers authentic gaucho grilling in a compact freestanding format that fits patios and outdoor spaces where the larger Tagwood XL units won't. Cold-rolled steel body, 304 stainless steel cooking components, two preset grate positions controlled by lifting hooks, attached top lid, integrated front drawer, and heavy-duty casters for mobility.
If you want a real Tagwood Argentine grill but don't have room for the BBQ03SS or the XL freestanding models — and don't want to commit to the all-black Chief Series aesthetic — the BBQ18SS is the right call.
Limited quantities available. Pre-order to secure your unit.
The BBQ18SS and BBQ18SI share the same core platform: same compact freestanding format, same two preset grate positions via lifting hooks, same attached top lid and integrated front drawer, same firebrick-lined firebox, same 304 stainless steel cooking components (grates, griddle, secondary grate, shovel, and poker), same 3-year warranty. The difference is in the exterior finish:
Both grills require the same routine maintenance for the cold-rolled steel body. Choose based on the visual style you want for your outdoor space.
If you're cross-shopping the BBQ18SS against the BBQ03SS at a higher price point, here's what's different:
Choose the BBQ18SS if you want an authentic Argentine grilling experience in a smaller, more affordable freestanding package and don't need the wide elevation range of the wheel-crank system. Choose the BBQ03SS if you want full Santa Maria functionality, more cooking flexibility, and the longer 5-year warranty.
Main Grilling Area (32.25" x 17.25") — 556 sq. in. of cooking surface. Round main grates with two preset height positions adjusted manually using lifting hooks. Position the grates close to the coals (4.5" minimum) for searing, or raise them to the 6.5" position for less aggressive heat. The 2-inch range covers most everyday grilling — sear ribeyes, picanha, chicken, sausages, vegetables, all on the same surface.
Secondary Grate Above Firebox (sold separately) — Adds a second cooking zone above the firebox for two-zone cooking on a single fuel bed. Run proteins on the main grate while toasting bread or holding sides on the secondary grate. Available as the BBQ55SS Height-Adjustable Secondary Grate.
Interchangeable Griddle (sold separately) — Optional flat griddle for smash burgers, chorizo, peppers and onions, and breakfast service. Available as a checkout add-on or as the standalone BBQ58SS griddle.
Unlike the wheel-crank Santa Maria elevation on Tagwood's larger models, the BBQ18SS uses a manual lifting hook system with two preset height positions. The advantage: no moving parts to maintain, simpler operation, and faster swaps between positions. The trade-off: only two preset heights (4.5" and 6.5") instead of continuous adjustment.
For most everyday backyard grilling — searing steaks, cooking chicken, finishing vegetables — two preset heights are all most cooks ever use. If you need wider vertical travel for slow cooking whole roasts at high elevation, the BBQ03SS or BBQ23SS offer up to 20+ inches of grate travel.
The gaucho-style firebox is lined with firebricks along the bottom and side walls. The firebricks do three things: they buffer heat transfer to the steel body (extending the working life of the firebox), they radiate heat back into the cooking chamber more evenly, and they let you burn longer with less fuel because heat is retained in the brick mass rather than escaping through the steel.
The firebox burns both hardwood and charcoal — Tagwood recommends lump charcoal and firewood for the best ember production and cleanest cooking experience. A built-in drainage system at the base prevents moisture from pooling inside the firebox during outdoor exposure.
Two features that aren't standard on Tagwood's larger Santa Maria models:
Attached top lid — Closes over the cooking chamber to retain heat for indirect cooks, protect from sudden weather mid-cook, or shut down a fire quickly when you're done. Built into the grill, no separate purchase required.
Integrated front drawer — Pulls out from the front of the cart for storing tools, gloves, lighters, or grilling accessories within arm's reach. Built into the cart frame.
Every surface that touches food on the BBQ18SS is made from 304 stainless steel — the main grates, the optional secondary grate, the optional interchangeable griddle, and the included shovel and poker. 304 is the same restaurant-grade material used in commercial kitchens because it resists corrosion, cleans easily, and holds up to direct fire exposure.
The BBQ18SS body is built from cold-rolled steel, which — like all grills made from this material — is prone to rusting over time, especially in the firebox and other high-heat areas. This is more common in regions with high humidity.
Due to the nature of this material, the grill may develop:
These are natural and expected characteristics, not defects, and do not affect the performance or structural integrity of the grill.
To help preserve your grill, we recommend periodically sanding affected areas with fine sandpaper and applying a high-temperature, rust-preventive paint.
Please note: Surface rust, oxidation, heat discoloration, and normal wear are not covered under warranty, as they are inherent to the material and use conditions. If you'd prefer a zero-maintenance alternative with full stainless throughout, see the BBQ03SS — different platform, all 304 stainless body and grates, 5-year warranty.
The BBQ18SS is highly configurable. Choose from eight accessory bundles:
If you're new to live-fire cooking, the griddle over brazier and interchangeable griddle add meaningful versatility. The side table adds prep workspace next to the grill. Pick the bundle that matches how you plan to cook.
Heavy-duty swivel casters (two with locking brakes) let you reposition the grill across a patio, lock it in position for service, and roll it into covered storage for the off-season. The included shovel and poker — with mounting bracket — keep fire management tools within arm's reach during a cook.
Secondary grate, side table, and griddle sold separately. Ships partially assembled.
At 69.5 inches wide, 20.5 inches deep, 69 inches tall, and 261 pounds, the BBQ18SS is sized to fit smaller patios and outdoor spaces where the larger Tagwood XL freestanding grills won't. Allow clearance behind the unit for the firebox door and on either side for safe operation around live fire.
| Body Material | Cold-Rolled Steel |
| Food-Contact Material | 304 Stainless Steel (grates, secondary grate, griddle, shovel, poker) |
| Total Cooking Area | 556 sq. in. (with optional secondary grate) |
| Main Grilling Area | 32.25" x 17.25" |
| Max Grate Height | 6.5" |
| Min Grate Height | 4.5" |
| Grate Adjustment | 2 preset positions via manual lifting hooks |
| Overall Dimensions | 69"H x 69.5"W x 20.5"D |
| Weight | 261 lbs |
| Fuel Type | Hardwood and charcoal |
| Configuration | Freestanding with swivel casters (2 with brake) |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 3-Year Limited |
| Condition | New |
Ships partially assembled via freight carrier with curbside delivery and a scheduled delivery appointment. The freight company will contact you in advance to coordinate a delivery window. Plan for help unloading and moving the unit to its final position.
Free shipping to the contiguous 48 states.
Smokeforges is an authorized online retailer of Tagwood BBQ. Every grill we sell ships brand new, direct from the manufacturer, with the full manufacturer warranty intact. Questions about which accessory bundle is right for you, the BBQ18SS vs. BBQ18SI, or whether you should step up to the BBQ03SS instead? Reach out before you buy
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