Custom Split Santa Maria Drop-In Grill for Masonry

Base Unit #9981

Commercial Dual-Zone Spec | Masonry Insert | 100% Made in Texas | Free Continental U.S. Shipping*

The Dual-Zone Masonry Insert

The NorCal Ovenworks Base Unit #9981 is the architectural standard for high-volume Santa Maria cooking. Designed for permanent installation into custom masonry islands, this unit features a Split Firebox Architecture that provides two completely independent grilling stations within a single thermal envelope.

Engineered for the pitmaster who demands versatility, the #9981 allows for Asynchronous Elevation. You can drop the left grate flush with the coals for high-heat searing while keeping the right grate elevated for slow roasting or warming. Equipped with a heavy-duty structural flange, this unit drops seamlessly into stone, stucco, or brick enclosures, providing the clean, flush-mount finish required by high-end design specifications.

STANDARD ISSUE: Masonry Maintenance Kit

Matched Tooling Included.

Managing a fire inside a permanent structure requires precision tools. We include the heavy-duty maintenance set as standard equipment. The material of your tool set will automatically match the grill material you select.

• If you configure Black Steel:

  Includes the Black Steel T-Rake & Firewood Poker ($220 Value).

• If you configure All-Stainless:

  Includes the 304-Stainless T-Rake & Firewood Poker ($400 Value).2

Fabrication Specifications

1. Dual-Zone Independent Control

The unit features Two Independent Side-Mounted Flywheels.

• Function: Total separation of cooking logic. Manage a steak service on one side and a vegetable service on the other without thermal conflict.

2. 4-Sided Structural Flange

The unit is fabricated with a steel lip on all four sides. This allows the firebox to hang suspended within the masonry cutout, creating a clean "finished" look that covers the rough edge of your countertop material (granite, concrete, or stone).

3. 14" Deep Thermal Containment

• Depth: 14" Standard.

• Construction: Fully seam-welded firebox (no tack welds). This depth prevents wind from scattering ash onto your countertops and ensures the heat remains focused on the food.

4. Grate Logic: Configure Your Insert

• Standard: Stainless Steel Round Rods – The traditional Santa Maria setup. Excellent for open-flame searing.

• Optional Upgrade: Argentine V-Grate with Drip Pan – V-Grate tracks grease away from the fire. Highly recommended for masonry installs to keep grease from splattering onto your stone countertops. 

Material Configurations (Select One)

Option A: A36 Black Steel (The Traditionalist)

• Spec: 3/16" Heavy-Gauge Carbon Steel body.

• Finish: High-heat industrial black.

• Grates: Stainless Steel grilling surface included.

• Note: Line the firebox with split firebricks (not included) to preserve the firebox.

Option B: 304 Stainless Steel (The Commercial/Coastal)

• Spec: 3/16" Heavy-Gauge 304 Stainless Steel body.

• Finish: Non-polished "Industrial" finish.

• Resistance: Rust-resistant. Ideal for beach properties. 

• Firebricks: Line the firebox with split firebricks (not included) to preserve the firebox.

Installation Specifications (Cutout Dimensions)

Critical Data for Contractors: The "Masonry Opening" is the clear space required in your island.

Pro Tip: Ensure your masonry cutout accounts for the flange overlap (approx 1.5" on supported sides).

Custom Fabrication Options

NorCal Ovenworks is a Custom Shop.

We build to print.

• Option: NSF Certification: Full documentation for restaurant code compliance.

• Option: Warming Racks: Upper tier for resting meats.

• Option: Custom Grate Splits: Mix and match (e.g., Round Rod on the left, V-Grate on the right).

Direct to Fabricator Line: 916-794-0707

Email for Prints/Specs: gary@norcalovenworks.com

Logistics

• Origin: Hand-built in Texas, USA.

• Shipping: Free Freight Shipping (Continental U.S. Only)*.

  • Note: Shipments to NYC or limited-access areas may incur carrier surcharges.

Select your Size and Material below to commission your build.