Mr. Toploader: We’ve been using a propane ‘patio stove’ for years. There is no substitute in the summer when heating the kitchen is out of the question. And it is the only place to fry things like fish!! I also use it for canning, since it keeps the boiling water outside. There are inferno models that really crank out the heat from a large central burner; those are great for heating great big pots of stuff, like a lowcountry boil or a fried turkey. But for what I cook, I prefer a large-diameter model that creates a wider heated surface, even if it’s not as hot. These are great for paella, but I use mine mostly to fry large batches that need plenty of contact with the pan, like all the ingredients for ratatouille.
I must confess, though, that my Frigidaire RT-38 is the perfect appliance for pan-frying; I set the 8″ on med-low, heat up the pan with oil or butter, and away I go. The heat is incredibly even and it turns out to be perfect for most pan-frying tasks. You wouldn’t think medium-low would be enough heat, but it is. Even in the summer, I prefer the Frigidaire for things like hash-browns and crab cakes and similar items that burn or overcook easily.
If I could have my dream patio, it would include a Frigidaire or Thermador cooktop with TK units, alongside the propane and charcoal options.