5 Steps of Hosting the Best Grill & Chill @ TLC

 
It's that time of year again when you open up your apartment windows and smell fresh cut grass and smoked meats lingering in from the sun-soaked backyard. Whether you're a grill master or a novice, we've got the outdoor spaces ready for you to try out your new recipes. Here's 5 steps to make the most of your grill and chill this season.
 

 
1. Gather the Goods
The 417 is blessed with many options of grocery stores to find everything you need to host a cookout. If you're at one of our central properties like Battlefield Park or Westwood, you already know that Hy-Vee is just a short walk from home. If you're on the south or east side of the city like Hawthorn Suites, Harter House is the go-to for all things meat. Stop by any of our local grocers and locate their seasonal section. 
 
 

2.  Invite Your Tribe
With local mask mandates being lifted in the past couple months, many folks are ready to socialize. At TLC Properties, we are all about community. We know that many of our residents choose to live minimally in humble-sized apartments but need space to host special occasions. That's why you'll find common areas at every property we manage. Common areas do not require reservation, so claim your spot and let your friends know they're welcome here.
 
 
3.  Fire it Up
The heat of the flames and the smell of the bbq smoke will get even the most amateur of chefs excited. On our community grills, we suggest using charcoal briquettes from the grocery store. Some charcoal comes pre-treated to be sufficiently flammable with just a light of a match. This can be safer than using lighter fluid. As always, we encourage everyone to choose the safest option for them and the grill they're using. Here are some safety tips when cooking outdoors. 
 
 

4. Try a New Recipe
You can't go wrong with the ever-so-American hotdogs and hamburgers, but seafood, veggies and even fruit can go on a grill, too. For example, pineapple and chicken go perfect with blackened grill-marks. Try some new recipes and you might just end up finding a new favorite. 
 
 

5.  Tell Us About It (and possibly win some $$$)
If you had a great time utilizing one of our many outdoor grills, let us know! We would love to see pictures and hear about your tasty creations. The month of July we will be hosting a grilling contest, and you could win. All you have to do to enter is grill, snap a photo, and send it to us. The winner will be chosen at random and will receive funds towards their next cookout. Find out more by contacting marketing@tlcproperties.comV