Grill Like a Pro: Top Flat Top Grills for 2024

Flat top grills, also known as griddles, have become increasingly popular for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. The best outdoor griddle options highlight the versatility of these appliances, offering a large, flat cooking surface that’s perfect for everything from breakfast favorites to gourmet dinners. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting a backyard party, a flat top grill can handle it all with ease.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best flat top grills available in 2024. We’ve tested and reviewed numerous models to bring you our top picks for every budget and cooking style. From compact portable options to large, feature-packed griddles, we’ve got you covered.

What is a Flat Top Grill?

A flat top grill, also known as a griddle grill or outdoor griddle, is a versatile cooking appliance that features a large, flat cooking surface heated by gas burners underneath. Unlike traditional grills with grates, flat top grills have a smooth, solid cooking surface typically made of thick cold-rolled steel or stainless steel. This design allows for even heat distribution and creates a restaurant-style cooking experience in your backyard.

Most flat top grills run on propane, though some models can be converted to natural gas. They come in various sizes, from portable tabletop units to large 36-inch stations with multiple burners. The cooking surface is slightly tilted toward a grease management system, making it easy to clean while cooking. Modern flat top grills often include features like side shelves, storage cabinets, and wheels for mobility.

Benefits of a Flat Top Grill

Flat top grills offer numerous advantages that make them increasingly popular for outdoor cooking enthusiasts:

Versatile Cooking Options

Unlike traditional grills, a flat top griddle allows you to cook virtually anything you’d prepare on a stovetop or indoor griddle:

• Breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, and hash browns
• Diner-style smash burgers and sandwiches
• Stir-fry dishes and sautéed vegetables
• Seafood and delicate foods that might fall through traditional grates
• Multiple dishes simultaneously without flavor transfer

Superior Heat Control

• Multiple burners allow for different temperature zones
• Even heat distribution across the cooking surface
• No flare-ups common with traditional grills
• Consistent cooking temperatures for better results

Increased Cooking Space

• Large, continuous cooking surface
• No wasted space between grates
• Cook for large groups efficiently
• Prepare entire meals at once

Easy Maintenance

• Simple grease management systems
• Quick cleanup with basic tools
• No grates to scrub or replace
• Seasoned surface becomes more non-stick over time

Year-Round Cooking

• Works well in any weather
• Heats up quickly even in cold temperatures
• Wind doesn’t affect performance like traditional grills
• Ideal for both summer cookouts and winter meals

Perfect for Commercial Use

• Ideal for food trucks and outdoor events
• High cooking capacity for large groups
• Fast cooking times for efficient service
• Easy to maintain food safety standards

Cost-Effective

• More energy-efficient than traditional grills
• No charcoal or wood pellets needed
• Long-lasting construction
• Minimal replacement parts required

These benefits make flat top grills an excellent investment for both home cooks and professional chefs who want to expand their outdoor cooking capabilities. Whether you’re cooking breakfast for the family or hosting a large gathering, a flat top grill provides the versatility and performance needed for successful outdoor cooking.

How to Choose the Best Flat Top Grill

When selecting a flat top grill, consider the following factors:

1. Size: Consider both the cooking surface area and the overall dimensions. Ensure it fits your space and cooking needs.
2. Number of Burners: More burners allow for better temperature control and cooking versatility.
3. BTU Output: Higher BTU ratings generally mean more heating power, but also consider BTUs per square inch for efficiency.
4. Construction Materials: Look for durable materials like stainless steel or powder-coated steel for longevity.
5. Portability: If you plan to move your grill or take it on trips, consider weight and design features like wheels or folding legs.
6. Additional Features: Consider extras like side shelves, hoods, or built-in grease management systems.
7. Price: Determine your budget, but remember that investing in a higher-quality grill can save money in the long run.

Blackstone 36″ Cooking Station – Best Overall

The Blackstone 36” Cooking Station is our top pick for the best overall flat top grill. This professional-grade griddle offers an impressive combination of size, power, and versatility that makes it perfect for both home cooks and serious outdoor chefs.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Massive 720 square inch cooking surface
• Four independently controlled 15,000 BTU stainless steel burners
• Durable powder-coated black steel frame
• Convenient side shelves and bottom shelf for storage

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 720 sq in
• Number of Burners: 4
• Total BTUs: 60,000
• Dimensions: 62.5” W x 22” D x 36” H

With its expansive 720 square inch cooking surface, you can easily cook for large groups or prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. The four independently controlled burners allow for precise temperature control across different zones of the griddle, giving you the flexibility to sear steaks on high heat while gently cooking vegetables on low heat.

Customer Reviews for Blackstone 36” Cooking Station

1. “This griddle is a game-changer! Perfect for large family gatherings and the even heat distribution is amazing.”
2. “Assembly was straightforward and the build quality is impressive. It’s become the centerpiece of our outdoor kitchen.”
3. “The versatility of this grill is unmatched. From pancakes to smash burgers, it handles everything with ease.”

Whether you’re cooking breakfast for a crowd or searing steaks for dinner, the Blackstone 36” Cooking Station delivers restaurant-quality results. Its combination of size, power, and durability make it the ultimate choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Blackstone 28″ Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station – Best Value

For those who want the quality of Blackstone but in a more compact package, the 28-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station is an excellent choice. This flat top griddle offers a perfect balance of cooking space, heat distribution, and temperature control, making it ideal for smaller patios or tailgating events.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• 470 square inches of cooking space
• Two independently controlled stainless steel burners
• Easy push-button ignition
• Rolled steel surface for excellent heat retention

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 470 sq in
• Number of Burners: 2
• Total BTUs: 30,000
• Dimensions: 44.5” W x 19.5” D x 33.5” H

The Blackstone 28-inch griddle features two independently controlled burners that offer a total of 30,000 BTUs of cooking power. This allows you to create two distinct heat zones for different types of foods. The rolled steel cooking surface provides excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring even cooking across the entire griddle.

Customer Reviews for Blackstone 28” Griddle Station

1. “Perfect size for our family of four. Heats up quickly and cooks everything evenly.”
2. “Love how easy it is to clean and maintain. The grease management system works great.”
3. “We take this camping all the time. It’s easy to transport and makes outdoor cooking a breeze.”

The Blackstone 28-inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station offers the perfect combination of performance and portability. It’s an excellent choice for those who want the Blackstone quality in a more compact and versatile package.

Royal Gourmet GB4000 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle – Best for Large Gatherings

For those who love to entertain or cook for large groups, the Royal Gourmet GB4000 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle is an excellent choice among gas griddles, known for its performance and features. This large, powerful griddle offers ample cooking space and impressive heat output, making it perfect for backyard parties and family gatherings.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Expansive 784 square inch cooking surface
• Four independently controlled stainless steel tube burners
• Durable stainless steel control panel
• Convenient folding side tables

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 784 sq in
• Number of Burners: 4
• Total BTUs: 52,000
• Dimensions: 63.8” W x 24.2” D x 35.4” H

The Royal Gourmet GB4000 boasts an impressive 784 square inches of cooking space, allowing you to cook for a crowd with ease. Its four independently controlled burners provide a total of 52,000 BTUs of cooking power, giving you precise control over different heat zones across the griddle surface.

Customer Reviews for Royal Gourmet GB4000

1. “This griddle is a beast! Perfect for our large family gatherings. The heat distribution is excellent.”
2. “Assembly was straightforward, and the build quality is impressive for the price point.”
3. “Love the size and power of this griddle. It’s become the centerpiece of our outdoor cooking setup.”

If you’re looking for a large, powerful flat top grill that can handle big crowds, the Royal Gourmet GB4000 is an excellent choice. Its combination of size, power, and durability make it a top contender in the world of outdoor griddles.

Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle – Best Portable Option

For those who need a portable flat top grill for camping, tailgating, or small patios, the Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle is an excellent choice. This compact griddle offers impressive cooking performance in a highly portable package.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• 361 square inches of cooking space
• Two independently controlled H-style burners
• Built-in grease channel for easy cleanup
• Compact and portable design

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 361 sq in
• Number of Burners: 2
• Total BTUs: 24,000
• Dimensions: 22.5″ W x 19″ D x 9″ H

Despite its compact size, the Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle offers 361 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to cook for a small family or group of friends. The two independently controlled H-style burners provide a total of 24,000 BTUs of cooking power, allowing for precise temperature control across the griddle surface.

Customer Reviews for Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle

1. “Perfect for camping trips! Heats up quickly and cooks evenly. Easy to clean and transport.”
2. “Great little griddle for small spaces. We use it on our apartment balcony all the time.”
3. “Impressed with the quality and performance. It’s become our go-to for tailgating events.”

The Blackstone 1666 22″ Tabletop Griddle is the ideal choice for those who need a portable flat top grill without sacrificing cooking performance. Its compact size, powerful burners, and easy cleanup make it perfect for outdoor adventures or small spaces.

Cuisinart CGG-888 22-Inch Round Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle – Best Round Griddle

For those who prefer a unique design, the Cuisinart CGG-888 22-Inch Round Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle offers a circular cooking surface that sets it apart from traditional rectangular griddles. This versatile and stylish outdoor griddle is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their outdoor cooking setup, providing excellent performance and features.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Unique 22-inch round cooking surface
• Two independently controlled burners
• 360-degree grease pan for easy cleanup
• Vented stainless steel lid included

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 380 sq in
• Number of Burners: 2
• Total BTUs: 30,000
• Dimensions: 22” diameter x 36” H

The Cuisinart CGG-888 features a 22-inch round cooking surface that provides 380 square inches of cooking area. The two independently controlled burners offer a total of 30,000 BTUs of cooking power, allowing for precise temperature control across the griddle surface.

Customer Reviews for Cuisinart CGG-888

1. “Love the round design! It’s perfect for our patio and cooks beautifully.”
2. “The 360-degree grease pan is a game-changer. Cleanup is so much easier than our old grill.”
3. “Impressed with the versatility. The lid allows us to cook things we couldn’t on a traditional open griddle.”

The Cuisinart CGG-888 22-Inch Round Outdoor Flat Top Gas Griddle is an excellent choice for those who want a unique and versatile flat top grill. Its round design, powerful burners, and included lid make it stand out in the world of outdoor griddles.

Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Gas Griddle – Best Budget Pick

For those on a budget or looking for a compact yet powerful griddle, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Gas Griddle is an excellent choice. This griddle offers impressive features and performance at an affordable price point.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• 316 square inches of cooking space
• Three independently controlled stainless steel burners
• Porcelain-enameled griddle top for durability
• Compact and portable design

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 316 sq in
• Number of Burners: 3
• Total BTUs: 25,500
• Dimensions: 25” W x 16.3” D x 7.9” H

Despite its compact size, the Royal Gourmet PD1301S offers 316 square inches of cooking space, which is perfect for small families or groups. The three independently controlled stainless steel burners provide a total of 25,500 BTUs of cooking power, allowing for precise temperature control across the griddle surface.

Customer Reviews for Royal Gourmet PD1301S

1. “Great value for the price! Heats up quickly and cooks evenly. Perfect for our camping trips.”
2. “Love the three burners – allows for great temperature control across the cooking surface.”
3. “Compact yet powerful. It’s become our go-to for outdoor cooking in our small backyard.”

The Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Gas Griddle offers an impressive combination of features and performance at an affordable price point. Its compact size, powerful burners, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for those on a budget or with limited space.

Char-Broil 28″ XL Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle – Best for Beginners

For those new to flat top grilling, the Char-Broil 28″ XL Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle offers a user-friendly design with plenty of cooking space and power.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Large 802.9 square inch cooking surface
• Three independently controlled burners
• Durable powder-coated steel frame
• Convenient folding side shelves

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 802.9 sq in
• Number of Burners: 3
• Total BTUs: Not specified
• Dimensions: 65″ W x 26″ D x 39″ H

The Char-Broil 28″ XL Performance Series offers an impressive 802.9 square inches of cooking space, making it perfect for large families or entertaining. The three independently controlled burners allow for precise temperature control across different zones of the griddle.

Customer Reviews for Char-Broil 28″ XL Performance Series

1. “Great for beginners! Easy to use and clean. The large cooking surface is perfect for our family gatherings.”
2. “Love the folding side shelves – they provide plenty of prep space and make storage easier.”
3. “Heats up quickly and maintains temperature well. Great value for the price.”

The Char-Broil 28″ XL Performance Series Propane Gas Griddle is an excellent choice for those new to flat top grilling or anyone looking for a large cooking surface at a reasonable price point.

Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle – Best Premium Portable

For those seeking a premium portable option, the Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle offers high-end features in a compact package.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Single 12,000 BTU burner for powerful cooking
• Hood included for versatile cooking options
• Compact and portable design

Specifications

• Cooking Area: Not specified
• Number of Burners: 1
• Total BTUs: 12,000
• Dimensions: 21.7″ W x 20.5″ D x 14.7″ H

The Blackstone 1814 features a durable stainless steel construction that not only looks great but also ensures long-lasting performance. The single 12,000 BTU burner provides plenty of power for its size, allowing you to cook a variety of foods with ease.

Customer Reviews for Blackstone 1814 Portable Griddle

1. “Excellent build quality. The stainless steel construction feels premium and durable.”
2. “Love the included hood – it’s great for melting cheese on burgers or steaming vegetables.”
3. “Perfect size for camping trips. Powerful burner and easy to clean.”

The Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle is the ideal choice for those who want a high-quality, portable flat top grill with versatile cooking options.

Gas One Flat Top Grill with 4 Burners – Best for Camping

For outdoor enthusiasts looking for a versatile and powerful camping griddle, the Gas One Flat Top Grill with 4 Burners is an excellent choice.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• Four independently controlled burners
• Stainless steel construction for durability
• Removable grease tray for easy cleaning
• Portable design with sturdy legs

Specifications

• Cooking Area: Not specified
• Number of Burners: 4
• Total BTUs: Not specified
• Dimensions: 33″ W x 18.75″ D x 15.2″ H

The Gas One Flat Top Grill features four independently controlled burners, allowing for precise temperature control across different zones of the griddle. The stainless steel construction ensures durability and longevity, even with frequent outdoor use.

Customer Reviews for Gas One Flat Top Grill

1. “Great for camping! The four burners provide excellent heat control and cooking versatility.”
2. “Sturdy construction and easy to clean. Perfect for our RV trips.”
3. “Impressed with the power and even heating. It’s become our go-to for outdoor cooking.”

The Gas One Flat Top Grill with 4 Burners is an excellent choice for those who need a powerful and versatile griddle for their outdoor adventures.

Blackstone 1883 Original 28″ Griddle – Best with Hood

For those who want a Blackstone griddle with the added versatility of a hood, the Blackstone 1883 Original 28″ Griddle is an excellent choice.

View on Amazon

Highlights

• 524 square inches of cooking space
• Two independently controlled burners
• Integrated protective hood for versatile cooking
• Fold-down side shelves for extra workspace

Specifications

• Cooking Area: 524 sq in
• Number of Burners: 2
• Total BTUs: Not specified
• Dimensions: 51″ W x 32.7″ D x 21.7″ H

The Blackstone 1883 Original 28″ Griddle offers 524 square inches of cooking space, perfect for medium-sized families or small gatherings. The two independently controlled burners allow for precise temperature control across different zones of the griddle.

Customer Reviews for Blackstone 1883 Original 28″ Griddle

1. “Love the hood feature! It’s great for melting cheese or cooking foods that benefit from trapped heat.”
2. “Perfect size for our family of four. The side shelves are sturdy and provide plenty of prep space.”
3. “Easy to assemble and use. The hood adds versatility that our old griddle didn’t have.”

The Blackstone 1883 Original 28″ Griddle is an excellent choice for those who want the quality of a Blackstone griddle with the added versatility of a hood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a flat top grill and a regular grill?

A flat top grill has a smooth, flat cooking surface, while a regular grill has grates. Flat top grills are better for cooking smaller foods and allow for more versatile cooking styles.

Can I use regular pots and pans on a flat top grill?

Yes, you can use most pots and pans on a flat top grill, making it very versatile for outdoor cooking.

How do I clean and maintain my flat top grill?

Clean the surface while it’s still warm using a scraper and paper towels. For tougher residue, use water and a grill stone. Season the surface regularly with oil to maintain its non-stick properties.

Are flat top grills good for cooking vegetables?

Absolutely! Flat top grills are excellent for cooking vegetables, allowing for even cooking and easy stirring or flipping.

Conclusion

Flat top grills offer a versatile and enjoyable cooking experience, perfect for everything from breakfast to dinner. Whether you’re looking for a large, powerful griddle for backyard parties or a portable option for camping trips, there’s a flat top grill out there for you.

Our top overall pick, the Blackstone 36″ Cooking Station, offers an unbeatable combination of size, power, and features. However, each of the grills on our list excels in its own way, catering to different needs and preferences.

Remember to consider your specific requirements, available space, and budget when making your choice. With the right flat top grill, you’ll be well on your way to griddle cooking perfection. Happy grilling!

Chris Johns

Chris is the founder of BBQ Report® and has been an avid barbecue fan for over 20 years. His mission is to make grilling and smoking the best food possible easy for everyone. And each year, he continues to help more people with grilling, smoking, and barbecue recipe recommendations.