For grilling on the go, try a portable gas grill. With the bells and whistles of a full-sized design (push-button ignition, heat-resistant handle, and an adjustable burner valve), the mini-model allows you to barbecue anywhere. Propane cylinder sold separately. $159.99
Weber Baby Q Grill, Woodstock Hardware, Woodstock
Salt, pepper, ketchup, and mustard gather ‘round a picnic table of their own in this condiment container. Diminutive-sized bottles are included with the set. $13.99 Mr. Bar-B-Q Picnic Table Condiment Set, available at Target
It seems like there’s an app for everything these days — including barbecue. Steal Dad’s iPhone for a few minutes and download the app. When food is cooked to perfection, it picks up Bluetooth signals from this device and lets you know. $79.99
iGrill by iDevices
Dad can crank up the heat as much as he wants with this Rhinebeck resident’s new invention. These astronaut-esque, fire-resistant, and made-in-the-USA aprons and specially designed “pinch mitts” can withstand up to 2,000 degrees. Gloves $69.99; Apron $99.99
Alumens Aprons and Mitts by Mary Ida, bluecashew Kitchen Pharmacy, Rhinebeck
This gizmo’s curved tip can hold up to 15 pounds; it flips meats as compact as whole racks of ribs and seafood as delicate as small shrimp, with no damage to the food. Don’t worry if dad’s a lefty: models for southpaws are available too. $34.94 for a set of two with wood gift box.
PigTail Food Flipper by K2 Development, Pine Plains