Outdoor Kitchen Flat Top Grill, Things You Should Know

Outdoor Kitchen Flat Top Grill, Things You Should Know

If you are looking for an outdoor kitchen flat top grill, then you are in luck because, in today’s article, we have covered flat top grill outdoor kitchen units. No matter if you want to flip a pancake, sear a steak, or grill your side veggies, an outdoor kitchen with flat top grill is versatile enough to do it all with precision.

Since we have a lot of options for flat iron grills, it would put you in a great dilemma. Hence, we put our foot down and took the charge to list the best flat iron gas grill. So, let’s begin.

What is a flat top grill?

The flat top grill is the other name for the griddle. These are preferred and are a good choice for outdoor cooking, having a flat surface made of metal. Some of the grills are designed by having a griddle and grill side by side where you can grill and cook simultaneously.

Why choose a flat top grill over others?

The reason why we are a little biased about this flat top for gas stove is that it offers ample space for cooking on a smooth surface. However, the key pointer for this includes its

• It is versatility. Unlike traditional grills, flat tops are great for a wide range of foods—pancakes, eggs, burgers, vegetables, and even stir-fries.
• Flat top grill offers even heat distribution as its flat surface ensures consistent cooking without flare-ups.
• It offers easy cleanup. Most flat top grills have grease management systems, making cleanup hassle-free.
• Furthermore, it helps to get enhanced and enriched flavors. With the ability to cook food evenly, you can achieve a perfect sear and lock in flavors.

As of now, you are aware of its significance; here are a few picks for our outdoor kitchen flat top grill.

Best Outdoor Kitchen Flat Top Grill

1. Blackstone 36 inches Cooking Station

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 66.52 x 27.6 x 35.43 inches
• Weight: 140 lbs.
• Cooking surface: 769 sq. in
• Burners: four
• Fuel Type: propane gas

Blackstone 36 inches cooking station is our top pick for the best outdoor kitchen flat top grill. This grill is equipped with side shelves and a removable cutting board to offer convenience to the user.

Other than that, it features a trash bag hook, a separate towel holder and a bottom shelf as well where you can store the prep food.

This model of Blackstone offers a restaurant-style cooking experience with its ample cooking space of 720 sq. in. where you can cook breakfasts, lunch, dinner, and feast a gathering.

With its four burners, you can ensure uniform heating. Its construction involves durable plastic handles that are heat resistant, ensuring safety and preventing hand burns.

Furthermore, this grill is easy to assemble, offers battery-powered ignition, and, most importantly, its wheels make it easy to move around and lock to ensure its stability. You can store it with ease as its griddle is removable, and the legs are foldable.

2. Camp Chef Portable Flat Top Grill

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 35 x 24 x 20.5 inches
• Weight: 122 lbs.
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Cooking surface: 600 sq. in
• Burners: 4
• Fuel Type: Gas

Camp Chef Portable Flat top grill is our second best outdoor kitchen flat top grill. This is our favorite pick as it allows the user to swap between griddle and grill grates.

With four burners it offers even heating all around on a cooking surface of 600 sq. in. which is quite ample for preparing different food items at a time.

Its pre-seasoned, non-stick surface ensures even heat distribution and hassle-free cooking right from the start. It is designed for convenience, the grill comes with a built-in grease drain system to make cleanup quick and easy.

The sturdy yet portable design, complete with foldable legs, makes it an ideal companion for camping trips, tailgating, or backyard BBQs. Enjoy restaurant-quality grilling wherever you go!

3. Royal Gourmet GD403 Grill and Griddle

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 21.65 x 66.14 x 36.61 inches
• Weight: 87.3 lbs.
• Cooking surface: 610 sq. in
• Burners: 4
• Fuel Type: gas

Royal Gourmet GD403 grill and griddle is the name of ultimate grilling experience with versatility due to its 4-burner propane gas grill and ceramic coated griddle combo designed for outdoor cooking.

This compact looking flat top grill is so powerful with 48,000 BTUs, that provides fast and even heating across its dual cooking surfaces.

Whether you are grilling steaks or preparing pancakes, the combo setup caters to all your needs. Its folding legs make it easy to transport, making it perfect for camping, tailgating, or backyard barbecues. With a sleek black and silver design, this portable griddle grill combo is a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

4. Blackstone 1666 22 inches tabletop griddle

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 22.5 x 19 x 9 inches
• Weight: 34 lbs.
• Cooking surface: 22 inches
• Burners: two
• Fuel Type: propane

Blackstone 1666 tabletop flat grill is our best choice for outdoor kitchens. This portable table top gas grill is compact and ideal for tailgating or outdoor adventure.

This gas griddle is versatile in cooking, where you can demonstrate your culinary techniques. Although it looks compact, its cooking area is 361 sq. in. It can cook ten pancakes, 14 burgers, or 60 hot dogs despite its design.

The two burners ensure complete control over heating and cooking food with its H-shaped burners.

5. Cuisinart CGG-888 Outdoor Griddle

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 40 x 22 x 44 inches
• Weight: 71.7 lbs.
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Burners: 2
• Fuel Type: gas

Cuisinart CGG-888 Griddle takes outdoor cooking to the next level with its innovative 360° griddle design. Featuring a durable stainless steel lid, this versatile griddle offers a spacious, circular cooking surface that allows for even heat distribution and maximum efficiency.

Ideal for searing, sautéing, or steaming, the built-in grease management system ensures easy cleanup. Perfect for backyard gatherings, this griddle cooking center combines convenience, style, and high performance, making it an essential addition to any outdoor kitchen setup.

6. Pit Boss PB336GS Compact Griddle

Product Specifications

• Dimension: 17.32 x 27.8 x 10.83
• Material: stainless steel
• Cooking surface: 289 sq.in
• Burners: 2
• Fuel Type: Gas

Pit Boss PB336GS Two Burners is a compact yet powerful two-burner flat top griddle perfect for on-the-go cooking. Featuring a robust 289 sq. in. cooking surface, it delivers consistent heat across its pre-seasoned griddle top, making it ideal for searing, grilling, or sautéing your favorite dishes.

The portable design includes sturdy legs and a cover, ensuring easy transport and protection. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or enjoying a backyard BBQ, this versatile griddle is ready to bring the heat and elevate your outdoor cooking experience.

How to Choose the Right Flat Top Grill for You?

When it comes to choosing the outdoor kitchen flat top grill, making the final decision is indeed overwhelming as there are plenty of options.m However, here, we are tipping you by sharing the key factors that can surely impact your decision.

Be sure when getting your outdoor kitchen with grill and flat top that you are looking to

1. Its Cooking Surface Size

The size of the cooking surface is one of the most crucial factors to consider, as the flat top griddles are available in different sizes. It directly impacts the quantity of food you can cook at once and determines whether the grill is suitable for small family dinners or large gatherings.

Usually, a griddle with a small to medium size is 200 to 400 sq. in. which makes it a perfect choice for small families and couples to love to grill occasionally. This size is perfect for cooking a few burgers, pancakes, or a couple of steaks at a time. It is also great for those with limited outdoor space or who plan to use the grill on balconies or patios.

For more options for limited spaces, continue to read the best grills for balcony.

Whereas a large flat top grille is good for people who like to host gatherings or have a large family. It offers a surface area minimum of 500 and above, allowing you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. Furthermore, it is also great for preparing versatile meals, from breakfast to dinner, without needing multiple cooking batches.

Here is a Tip: If you regularly host large parties or cook a variety of dishes, opt for a larger grill with multiple burners to manage different heat zones.

2. Number of Burners and Heat Control

The number of burners on a flat top grill affects how much control you have over the cooking temperature. More burners allow you to create different heat zones, which is essential when cooking multiple types of food simultaneously.

The kitchen flat top grills are available in two variants in terms of burner styles, classified as

• Single or Dual Burners: Suitable for casual grilling and small meals. These are often found in portable or compact models, making them ideal for camping trips or tailgating.

• Three or More Burners: Provides better heat control and flexibility. You can cook different foods at different temperatures, such as searing meat on high heat while keeping vegetables warm on a lower heat setting. This is particularly useful for larger gatherings or when preparing complex meals.

Here is a Tip: Look for grills with independently controlled burners to maximize versatility and precision.

3. Portability and Storage

Portability may be an essential factor depending on your lifestyle and where you plan to use the grill. If you love camping, tailgating, or hosting outdoor events, a portable flat top grill might be your best bet.

For Portable Models for flat top grills

These grills are lightweight and compact and often come with foldable legs or carrying handles, making them easy to transport. They are great for outdoor adventures but may have a smaller cooking surface.

• For Stationary Models for flat top grills

Ideal for those who plan to keep the grill in one place, like a backyard or patio. These models usually offer a larger cooking area and additional features like side shelves and storage compartments but are less portable.

Here is a Tip: If you have limited storage space, consider a grill with foldable legs or a detachable griddle top for easier storage.

4. Build Quality and Durability

Investing in a flat top grill made from high-quality materials ensures longevity and consistent performance. Here are some materials which are ideal for outdoor kitchen flat top grills.

• Stainless Steel: Known for its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. It’s an excellent choice if you want a grill that can withstand various weather conditions and last for years.
• Cast Iron Cooking Surface: Provides excellent heat retention and distribution, resulting in even cooking. However, it requires regular seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties and prevent rusting.
• Cold-rolled steel: Often used in flat top griddles for its durability and ability to distribute heat evenly. It’s a popular choice for those who want a smooth cooking surface that heats up quickly.

Here is a Tip: Check for features like rust-resistant coatings and heavy-duty construction, especially if you plan to use the grill outdoors frequently.

5. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

One of the advantages of flat top grills is their ease of cleaning. However, some models make the process even simpler with added features. This includes

• Grease Management Systems: Look for grills with a built-in grease trap or a removable drip tray. These features help collect excess grease, making cleanup a breeze.
• Non-Stick Coatings: A non-stick griddle surface reduces food residue and makes it easier to clean up after cooking. However, non-stick coatings may require more careful handling to avoid scratches.
• Removable Parts: Grills with removable griddle tops or burners can be easier to clean thoroughly, as they allow you to reach all areas.

Here is a Tip: To make cleaning even easier, invest in a high-quality grill scraper and use a light coat of cooking oil before each use to prevent sticking.

6. Fuel Type

Most flat top grills use propane gas, but some models offer versatility with additional options like

• Propane Gas Grills: These are the most common and convenient. They heat up quickly and offer consistent temperature control, making them ideal for most users.
• Natural Gas Grills: If you have a natural gas line, this can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. However, it requires installation and is less portable.
• Electric Grills: Suitable for indoor use or areas with restrictions on open flames. They are easy to use and maintain but may lack the high heat output of gas grills.

However, there are a few variants that offer dual fuel source options with easy convertible options.

Here is a Tip: Consider your cooking environment and preferences when choosing a fuel type. If portability is a priority, propane is typically the best option.

7. Budget and Value for Money

Flat top grills come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly models to high-end options with premium features. Your budget will play a significant role in your decision, but balancing cost with quality and features is essential.

These are classified as

• Budget Models ($100-$300): Great for beginners or those who need a simple, portable option. These may have fewer burners and a smaller cooking surface but can still offer excellent performance for occasional use.
• Mid-Range Models ($300-$600): Offer a balance of quality, durability, and features like multiple burners, larger cooking surfaces, and better heat control. These are ideal for regular users who want a reliable, versatile grill.
• High-End Models ($600+): Packed with premium features, including stainless steel construction, advanced heat control systems, and larger cooking areas. These are perfect for serious grilling enthusiasts who value quality and durability.

Here is a Tip: Assess your grilling needs and how often you plan to use the grill. It may be worth investing in a higher-quality model if you grill frequently or host large gatherings.

Here are a few tips to maintain your outdoor flat griddle

When it comes to maintaining your outdoor flat griddle, if you practice these things, then it will be long-lasting. Make sure to

• Preheat your griddle properly. This will allow the grill to heat up for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
• Oil the surface to remove build-ups from food debris. Always lightly oil the griddle surface before cooking to prevent sticking.
• Do not overcrowd your griddle. Be sure that you are giving your food enough space to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.

With a few accessories, you can make your grilling experience hassle-free.

Accessories to Enhance Your Grilling Experience on a flat top grill for outdoor kitchen

To get the most out of your commercial flat top grill with oven, consider investing in a few key accessories. You can add

• Flat Top Grill Cover: It is essential to protect your grill from the elements. Hence, a flat top grill cover will extend its lifespan.
• Grill Scraper: This is one of the essentials for cleaning your grill. This will ensure a smooth and clean surface.
• Non-Stick Spray: This spray makes your flat grill greasy, prevents food from sticking, and makes cleanup easier.
• Spatula Set: A sturdy set of spatulas helps with flipping and handling food on the griddle. Plus, a few griddle grills allow them to hang on their body, offering extra storage space for them.

Frequently Asked Questions | Outdoor Kitchen Flat Top Grill

1. How to clean a flat top grill?

It is easy to clean a flat-top grill; to do so, you need to scrape the food debris and through it in the drip tray. You can use a spatula or a scraper. The best time to scrape is when the griddle is warm, not hot, ensuring effortless cleaning. You can also use water and a small amount of oil to make it even more smoother.

2. Do you need to season a flat-top grill?

Yes, you do need to season your flat top grill just like any other carbon steel cookware. However, to be sure, it is recommended to go through the user’s manual for your grill, as every manufacturer has its own instructions and handling care.

Keep in mind to wipe the surface of the griddle with a tiny dime of oil after cooking, as it will not only ensure easy cleaning but will also prevent it from corrosion.

You can also read more about how to season a griddle and grill for more information.

3. How to store a flat top grill?

The best way to store a flat top grill is to place a cover on it, preferably water-resistant, to prevent the cooking surface from rust and harsh weather. If you are planning to store it for the long term, then it must be stashed in a dry and shady place, just like a garage or in your shed.

Conclusively, Outdoor Kitchen Flat Top Grill

Outdoor kitchen flat top grills are a versatile and convenient choice for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. Whether you are preparing breakfast for the family or hosting a barbecue, a flat top grill can handle it all.

We have highlighted some of the best options on the market, from portable models for camping to large, family-sized grills. Whatever your needs, there is a flat top grill that will fit perfectly into your outdoor cooking setup.

Hope you liked our guide; for more, you can read more at 4seasongrills.com