It’s done in kitchens, isn’t it? Having said that, I, personally, wouldn’t. I would want something a bit more durable for an outdoor cooking space.

Thanks! I don't think grills are installed in kitchens (are they?) and wasnt sure of the heat given off by a gas grill vs a normal kitchen appliance (gas cooktop) was similar. We are over budget at this point and since it's a covered patio where the countertop will not be exposed to sun or rain, we though it would be ok.

I would not do it. The heat in a drop in cooking is mostly at the surface burners. The heat in a BBQ is much lower in the unit and would radiate sideways as well as up. I would be very careful.

What does the installation guide for the BBQ say? There must be specifications about what type of materials can be used and spacing and all of that. Start there.