License to Grill by The Coastal Kitchen: Cookbook Review

License to Grill is the latest release from The Coastal Kitchen. Released on July 1, 2025, it offers 100 recipes to up your grilling game.

I want to thank Cider Mill Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of License to Grill. All opinions presented here are solely mine.

Synopsis from Goodreads

Picture you, apron on, spatula in hand, the grill fired up, surrounded by family and friends, the mouthwatering smell of something amazing just waiting to be put on the table. This is your go-to grilling guide with juicy burgers, succulent steaks, perfectly charred veggies, and delectable seafood. From low-and-slow to quick-and-easy recipes that put dinner on the table on busy weeknights, you can take your BBQ game to a whole new level.

Over 100 appetizers, sides, and mains that will keep you and your guests around for hours. Unique sauces, rubs, and marinades. Delicious vegetarian dishes to please all palates. Tips and tricks to maximize flavor for your favorite cuts. It’s time to embrace your license to grill. Your next culinary mission awaits!

My Opinions

I was immediately drawn to License to Grill because of its title and cover. Anything that references James Bond has got to be good, in my opinion. While there are several exciting recipes in the book, sadly, it doesn’t live up to its potential.

Several of the recipes are the basics of grilling, including steak and burgers. Then there are a few that caught my attention, though I know we would never attempt them at home, such as the Octopus al Pastor.

The most exciting recipe I found in the book was the Pickled Grilled Pineapple. I haven’t attempted it because of timing (it needs three days to rest), cost (fresh pineapple is around $5), and inexperience in handling pineapple.

There are several recipes for rubs, sauces, and marinades that sound interesting. The most interesting has got to be the Epis. It is made with several peppers blended together into a paste. Then there’s a salsa recipe that includes peanuts.

Overall, License to Grill has a variety of recipes that may elevate your grilling game. I would suggest giving the book a look-through before purchasing, as there may not be many new recipes for you.

Are you looking for more food-related content? Check out my other Foodie Fridays posts.