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We know our grills and smokers. Spending over two decades learning and exploring everything there is to know about grilling, we have developed a newfound love of flat-top grills.
These versatile and convenient units can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors; enabling you to have a perfectly grilled meal whenever you desire. We have compiled a list of high-quality Flat Top grills.
Comparing features such as size, number of burners, fuel sources, and primary use, we have come up with a list of the best flat-top grills to buy.
Top Flat-Top Grills Reviews
1. Blackstone Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle
The battery ignition on this grill allows you to start cooking quickly, without wasting time waiting for the coals to get warm. A side shelf and an additional shelf underneath the grill enable you to prep and store food without having to step away from the unit.
The Blackstone 28-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station is a great purchase for anyone looking for a large, yet easily portable grill.
Features
- Two stainless-steel “H” style independently controlled burners
- 30,000 BTUs
- Battery-powered push button ignition for simple start-up every time
- 470 square inches of cooking space
- Product Dimensions: 44.5 x 19.5 x 33.5 inches
- Weight: 75 lbs.
- Propane fuel source
Pros
- Powder coated black steel frame is built to withstand the elements and is made to last
- Buyers love how quickly and easily these unit cooks just about everything you can think of
- Four adjustable heat zones make for a versatile cooking surface
Cons
- Some consumers have complained of having problems with the grease draining
- The grill sits rather high above the flame, which may not be preferable for some users
2. Blackstone 36 Inch Gas Griddle Cooking Station 4 Burner Flat Top Gas Grill
This Blackstone 1554 Station flat-top grill is easy to assemble and presents an enormous cooking surface. You will be sure to grill any meal to perfection, no matter what size group you are cooking for.
The side tables allow for added prep space while the adjustable burners provide versatility while you are cooking. The Blackstone 1554 station is the best propane flat-top grill on the market.
Features
- Four adjustable stainless-steel burners
- The fuel Source is Propane Gas
- 60,000 BTUs
- Quick ignition button for easy start-up every time
- Four caster wheels, two that are lockable for transportability and stability
- Thick rolled steel surface allows for amazing heat distribution and retention
- 720-square inches cooking surface
- Product Dimensions: 62.5 x 22 x 36 inches
- Weight: 120 lbs.
Pros
- A large cooking surface is sure to be plenty for any size of a meal
- Product features make this grill safe for either indoor or outdoor grilling
- Four independently controlled burners enable you to customize heat levels based on your specific needs
Cons
- The weight of the grilling slate makes it difficult to detach and clean after grilling
- Grease from grilling with a stay on the slate which will allow excess to drop freely onto the drip pan
3. Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill without Hood Propane Fuelled
Blackstone Table Top Grill is a great way to bring grilling with you wherever you go. Simple set up and clean up, this grill is compact enough to fit in a large backpack. The “H” style burner allows for even heat distribution to provide you with the best cooking options across the entire griddle.
Features
- 260 square inches of grilling surface
- 1 pound propane bottles for fuel
- 12,000 BTUs
- Extremely durable and sturdy grill slate is built to last
- 1 stainless-steel “H” style burner heats up fast and evenly distributes
- Product Dimension: 62.5 x 22 x 36 inches
- Weight: 25 lbs.
Pros
- The top turns upside down allowing for easy transport and storage options
- The griddle cleans easily, just let it cool down and wipe it with a paper towel
- Compact, portable, lightweight, and will fit even an oversized backpack
Cons
- Cooking capacity is extremely limited
- Some consumers have complained about having issues with the regulator
4. Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle
This griddle was designed for serving larger parties on the go. It has a vast cooking area with a quick ignition start-up. Other features, such as the large oil cup, allow for an easy clean-up and hassle-free portability.
All of this adds up to the Royal Gourmet PD1300 Tabletop Grill being the best flat-top grill for camping or other outdoor use.
Features
- 238 square inches of cooking surface
- Piezo ignition system enables quick and easy start-up
- Two stainless-steel adjustable burners
- 18,000 BTUs of cooking power
- Product Dimension: 22 x 18 x 9.4 inches
- Weight: 22 lbs.
Pros
- A 1-pound tank regulator is included
- The cooking surface is very large and can accommodate a sizeable group of people
- Buyers are loving the grease cup, including its vast size and easily removable for a cleanup
Cons
- Some grillers have complained about having to watch this grill the entire time they are cooking as the heat can get too hot.
- Other consumers have noticed that they have noticed some cool spots when cooking
5. Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Gas Grill
Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Liquid Propane Event Gas Grill was designed with versatility in mind. Despite its larger footprint, this grill has the ability to cook for any gathering, of any size.
This grill will be sure to please all of your tailgating guests. We at Daddy Cooking Tips consider this unit to be the best commercial grade flat-top grill you can buy.
Features
- Eight stainless-steel tube burners
- 104,000 BTUs
- 950 square inch cooking surface
- Integrated folding windscreen to protect foods from the wind while grilling
- 2 sets of regulators for more control over the flame
- The electronic ignition system offers a reliable spark with every push
- 2 large capacity grease cups underneath the firebox help grilling last long
- 2 folding side tables offer additional prep and workspace
- 2 levels of heavy-duty shelves provide sufficient storage space
- 4″ lockable caster wheels for easy moving
- Liquid propane fuel source
- Product Dimensions: 90.6 x 24.2 x 38.2 inches
- Weight: 117 lbs.
Pros
- Large cooking spaces can accommodate cooking several foods at once and for large numbers of people
- 2 sets of stable regulators allow you to cook on only half of the surface if required for smaller groups
- Porcelain-coated grill grates for even heat distribution
Cons
- Large capacity comes with a large footprint, which may not be ideal for all scenarios and spaces
- Some consumers have complained that the stand and legs can be easily damaged
6. Blackstone Tailgater Stainless Steel 2 Burner Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo
The Blackstone Grills Tailgater is the best flattop grill combination on the market. It provides portability, durability, and extreme versatility; allowing any griller to use it for any type of party he or she desires.
Features
- Two independently controlled burners; 1 stainless steel H tube burner and 1
cast iron burner - 35,000 BTUs combined from both burners
- Includes grill box, durable grill grates, and vent for better quality cooking
- 512 square inches of cooking space
- Product Dimensions: 52 x 24 x 38.5 inches
- Weight: 75 lbs.
- Propane fuel source
Pros
- Durable construction allows each part the ability to last
- Adjustable legs allow the grill to stay level on any terrain
- The unit heats up quickly and cooks evenly across all surfaces
Cons
- Some consumers have complained about having trouble cooking on this in cold weather
- This grill does not have any wheels, which limits its mobility
7. Royal Gourmet GB4001B 4-Burner Flat Top Gas Grill
This outdoor flat-top grill/griddle combination from Royal Gourmet has independently controlled stainless-steel burners allowing you to cook several different types of meals at once. It has a sturdy, open cart design with four locking caster wheels adding stability along with the ability to freely move the unit as desired.
Features
- Four stainless-steel tube burners
- 792 square inches of cooking surface
- 52,000 BTUs
- Electronic ignition system, which offers a reliable spark at every push
- Fixed side tables add space for the chef to prep and handle foods
- Product Dimensions: 61 x 23.6 x 38 inches
- Weight: 124 lbs.
- Propane fuel source
Pros
- Consumers love that the griddle is equipped with side handles so that it is easy to remove for cleaning
- The grill/Griddle combination offers excellent versatility and allows you to cook anything you want
- Large cooking spaces with independently controlled burners provide the ability to grill for any size group of people
Cons
- Some consumers have found that the back of the grill gets hotter than the front, which may not be ideal for all grillers
- Construction is not of the highest quality, and some buyers complained the legs were easily bent and damaged
8. Camp Chef Flat Top Grill
The Camp Chef Flat Top Grill’s greatest selling point is its versatility. With options to cook on a griddle or a grill, this unit can be used to cook breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day.
When you combine that with the added features enabling storage, food prep, and work spaces; you can easily see how this grill provides exceptional results perfect for any occasion.
Features
- 48,000 BTUs
- Four stainless steel burners
- Griddle surface: 604 square inches
- Grilling surface: 501 square inches
- Two large folding shelves on each side help to create a smaller footprint,
but add much-needed prep and work space while cooking - Two large shelves underneath the grill/griddle top provide storage for items
that will be needed throughout the grilling - The matchless ignition system for quick flames
- Product Dimensions: 36 x 24 x 20 inches
- Weight: 140 lbs.
- Propane Fuel Source
Pros
- Adjustable leg levelers allow you to keep the grill stable no matter what terrain you are on
- Independently controlled burners for even heat distribution and custom cooking zones
- The corrosion-resistant design will allow you to enjoy this grill for a long time
Cons
- Griddle sides do have a tendency to heat up at times, which can be a safety concern when using this top to cook
- This unit is extremely heavy, which may harbor difficulties if attempting to transport
9. Blackstone 36 inch Stainless Steel Outdoor Cooking Gas Grill Griddle Station
This unit from Blackstone is flap-top griddle grilling at its best. It has a large cooking surface to accommodate any number of guests with a removable griddle that is easy to clean. A great addition to any large party or gathering, this grill is designed to be used anywhere and to cook anything you can think of.
Features
- Four independently controlled, stainless-steel burners
- 720 square inches of cooking surface
- 60,000 BTUs
- Battery-powered ignition enables immediate use of your grill with the push of
a button - Removable griddle top, fold-up legs, and four industrial-strength caster
wheels allow you to transport to any location that is desired - Product Dimensions: 62.5 x 22 x 36 inches
- Weight: 50 lbs.
- Propane gas fuel source
Pros
- The thick cold rolled steel cooktop helps to create excellent quality food
- Buyers love how fast this grill heats up as well as the evenly distributed heat throughout the cooking surface
- Assembles quickly and easily in under an hour
Cons
- The temperature of the grill could be affected by wind as there is no cover at the back of the unit
- Some have complained of having problems with the drip channel and grease tends to drip down the side of the leg of the grill
10. George Foreman GFO3320GM Indoor/Outdoor Gun Metal Electric Grill
The George Foreman indoor/outdoor electric grill is a great addition to any tailgating party, provided you are prepared with an electrical hook-up. It can be used with or without its stand and can be used outdoors or inside if you prefer.
The ceramic, non-stick surface provides extensive durability, so you will be able to enjoy all that this grill has to offer again and again.
Features
- 240 square inch cooking surface
- The temperature gauge on the grill cover allows you to see the exact heat level
while cooking - The removable stand allows you to transport and set up this grill anywhere there
is a plug even inside - Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 18.5 x 19.7 inches
- Weight: 21 lbs.
- Electric grill
Pros
- The adjustable temperature probe allows you to choose from five heat settings to be sure that you are getting the best results for every ingredient
- Ceramic coating allows for better resistance to staining and fading, without sacrificing durability
- The compact size makes transport extremely easy
Cons
- Some have complained that the stand can be a bit wobbly
- The grill cover may hang over part of the grill hindering some cooking
Factors to Consider
When deciding on what flat-top grill would fit best for your needs, it is best to consider the factors below.
Location
First, you will need to determine where you intend to use your flat-top grill.
Will you be bringing it along for tailgating and camping excursions? Or is it strictly for indoor use?
Features such as power sources and durability will be more important for those flat tops that will be traveling as opposed to those that will primarily be used inside the house.
Size Does Matter
Next, you should determine whether you will regularly be cooking for large groups of people. Or perhaps you will want to use it for your small family only.
Additionally, if you plan to use the flat top indoors most often, storage will also be a factor.
In this case, you will also want to consider the size of your kitchen and countertop space when choosing your flat top. And if you plan to use the grill while you travel, you should lean more towards a portable flattop grill.
How to Power Up
If you will be using your flat top inside most of the time, consider opting for an electric grill. If you plan to transport the grill and use it outdoors instead, your best bet is probably to purchase a gas grill. Your intention regarding the mobility of the unit will help you to determine what type of power source you should go with.
FAQ
Is cooking on a flat top grill healthy?Due to its design being similar to that of a griddle, a flat-top grill enables the food to bake in moisture. This will prevent foods from drying out and allow you to use less oil while cooking and reduces the risk of burning.
Can weather effect my outdoor flat top grill?Unfortunately, it is possible for natural elements to mess with your flat-top grill. Of course, your grill should be properly stored or covered (if left outside) to ensure the best protection against rain, sleet, snow, and ice. Additionally, wind can also blow the flame around
What foods can I cook on a flat top grill?You can cook just about anything on a flat-top grill. Note that since the flat top offers no grates, so highly marinated meats, when cooked, could leave a mess. Also, because there are no grates, there will not be any grill marks on your food.
Can I use any pots or pans on a flat top grill?While you are able to use some cookware on your grill, you should do so with caution. For example, cast iron frying pans could scratch your grill surface. Those options that are a griddle grill combination may be the best resource if you intend to use cookware atop your device.
How to Season Your Flat Top Griddle
Preparing your griddle, or flat-top grill is essential to cooking your meals to perfection and without any food sticking or debris building up. In this piece, we’re going to discuss exactly how to season your flat-top grill.
It’s quite a simple process that anyone is capable of tackling with the proper know-how. All that’s needed is some oil, of your choice but rich in fatty acids, and some time. So let’s jump into the specifics!
First things first, let’s discuss the oil you’re going to need. The best oil to use to season a griddle is going to have a high fatty acids profile, which helps the oil bond to the griddle’s metal plate. Some of the oils that are rich in fatty acids and make perfect candidates for the job are the following:
Oil
- Canola oil
- Extra virgin and regular olive oil
- Vegetable oil
- Corn oil
- Flax oil
- Soybean oil
- Peanut oil
Of course, you’re free to use others but these aforementioned oils will all get the job done. Once you’ve picked one to your liking and you have your oil ready, you’re all but set to begin. Let’s work through the steps.
Cleaning the Griddle
Before beginning the process of seasoning your griddle, you should clean its surface, especially if it’s new or if you plan on seasoning an outdoor griddle.
That simply entails mixing soap and warm/hot water, pouring this mixture onto the surface, and wiping it down with some paper towels or a cleaning cloth.
Make sure to wipe the surface down completely. Once that’s done, you’re good to go for step two.
Heating the Surface
Now that the griddle’s clean, you have to darken it. Before oiling the surface, you’re first going to heat the griddle surface with the burners on their maximum setting. This is to get the griddle surface to a workable level of heating.
You’re going to want the griddle surface to begin to brown, and this should only take about 10 to 15 minutes or so. During this process, the griddle surface will burn off any remaining residue from cleaning or other particulates on the surface. As soon as the surface is heated properly, you’re ready to begin the actual seasoning process.
Seasoning with Oil
With the surface being browned, it’s time to hit it with the griddle cooking oil, but first, you should turn the heat down or off if you haven’t already. The whole purpose of seasoning the griddle is to create a non-stick surface via the oil bonding to the surface.
You’re going to lather the surface in oil and then spread it evenly on the surface using paper towels.
When doing this step, you need to ensure that the oil isn’t pooled up or puddled anywhere on the surface.
You want the surface to be as flat as possible. Don’t forget to use heat-resistant gloves or a tool, such as tongs, to prevent burning your hands! Remember, safety first!
Once you’ve spread the oil evenly, turn the griddle heat back up to its maximum burner settings and let the griddle surface begin working its magic.
The oil should begin to cook on the surface and blacken. Don’t be impatient though, as this process can take up to 30 minutes.
Also, be aware that the griddle will be smoking throughout the process, and for once, this is actually a good thing.
Repeat
Just one round of seasoning isn’t likely to get the job done in terms of making the surface completely non-stick. Therefore, you’re going to have to repeat this process roughly two to three times depending on the oil and griddle you’re utilizing.
So make sure you’ve turned off the burners, apply another round of oil, spread it evenly, turn the burners back to maximum burn, and sit back and wait for the surface to begin smoking and blackening even more.
Repeat as necessary. Remember, you’re shooting for an entirely blackened griddle surface, not just in the middle of the unit.
Final Oil Application
Now that the surface is properly seasoned, you’re ready to begin cooking delicious meals with incredible tastes. But before you do so, you’re going to want to apply another layer of cooking oil before beginning the actual cooking process.
This helps to prevent the previously blackened surface from oxidizing and ruining the seasoning you’ve worked so hard to apply.
It also adds to the flavorful experience of your meal as this layer of oil, thanks to the non-stick griddle, will work completely on the food while it cooks.
After you’ve applied this cooking layer of oil, you’re free to cook whatever it is you love to cook!
The tastes will be phenomenal and your previous hard work should prevent as much residual build-up as possible.
And so there you have it. You’re now fully informed on how to season your grill and clean it each and every time you want to cook on your flat-top griddle.
Now that you know how to season your grill, you should do this before every use, ensuring the non-stick surface remains throughout the unit’s lifetime. If you happen to have some food or debris build up on the surface while cooking, you should properly clean the surface before attempting to season it again.
If this is the case, you’re going to want to heat the griddle back up and dump water onto the debris built to help boil it off. In the case that this doesn’t work, try adding some salt to the griddle surface where the food is stuck and try the water boil method again. The debris should now slide right off with a wiping.
Seasoning your griddle is the absolute best way to keep the surface non-stick and capable of pristine cooking throughout the length of its use. You’re now more prepared than ever to season your griddle and enjoy those meals!
Conclusion
Our determination is that the Blackstone 1554 Station flat-top grill is the best outdoor flat-top grill. It combines simplicity with durability and optimal cooking results, making it our favorite.
It’s design and innovative technology provide the best bang for your buck. And, as always, Happy Grilling!
