Yeah, the concrete blocks are the route I think I'll be taking. The wife will like it better that way too, which is something I'm trying to strive for on my projects now lol

With this patio being a place where the kids regularly play, I'd rather use the concrete. Toys will get stored where they get stored now: all over the damn place. Lol

Very good point with the outdoor kitchen. Enough bracing could probably make anything possible.