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Gas Grill Reviews

Flat Top Grills: Your Guide to Perfectly Seared Meals

Best Flat Top Grill Reviews
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If you're searching for the best flat top grill, you've found the right guide. Flat top grills — also called outdoor griddles — have exploded in popularity because they let you cook everything from breakfast pancakes and eggs to smash burgers, stir-fries, and seared fish fillets on one versatile cooking surface. Whether you're comparing a large 36-inch backyard station or a compact portable griddle for camping and tailgating, the options have never been better or more varied. In this guide, our team has tested and reviewed the top flat top grills and outdoor griddles of 2026, covering a full range of sizes and cooking styles to help you find the right fit.

Read on to find the perfect griddle for your needs — and check out our flat top griddle grill guide for deeper tips on cooking techniques and griddle care.

Quick Comparison

Quick comparison of Flat Top Grills: Your Guide to Perfectly Seared Meals products.
Griddle Cooking Surface BTU Output Weight Best For Where to Buy
Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood 768 sq in 60,000 BTU ~130.5 lbs Large families / backyard See at Amazon
Blackstone 2142 Original 17" Tabletop Griddle Blackstone 2142 Original 17" Tabletop Griddle 267 sq in 12,500 BTU ~22 lbs Camping / travel See at Amazon
Blackstone 1517 28" Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station Blackstone 1517 28" Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station 470 sq in 34,000 BTU ~90 lbs Budget / mid-size See at Amazon
Weber 36" Slate Griddle Weber 36" Slate Griddle 576 sq in 60,000 BTU ~140 lbs Premium performance See at Amazon
Cuisinart 17" Tabletop Gas Griddle Cuisinart 17" Tabletop Gas Griddle 255 sq in 12,000 BTU Compact tabletop Small patios / camping See at Amazon
Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 3-Burner Gas Griddle Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 3-Burner Gas Griddle 316 sq in 24,000 BTU ~40 lbs Value portable See at Amazon
Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24" Portable Griddle Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24" Portable Griddle 240 sq in 24,000 BTU Portable tabletop Premium portable / tailgating See at Amazon
Traeger Flatrock 33" 3-Zone Flat Top Grill Traeger Flatrock 33" 3-Zone Flat Top Grill 594 sq in 36,000 BTU ~100 lbs Innovative / 3-zone See at Amazon
Blackstone 1813 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood Blackstone 1813 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood 361 sq in 24,000 BTU ~38 lbs Mid-size portable See at Amazon
Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36" Flat Top Grill with Sidekick Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36" Flat Top Grill with Sidekick 604 sq in + Sidekick 46,000 + 30,000 BTU (Sidekick) ~110 lbs Versatile / multi-function See at Amazon
Pit Boss 2-Burner Portable Griddle Pit Boss 2-Burner Portable Griddle 421 sq in 26,000 BTU 55 lb cooktop Pro portable / patio See at Amazon
Best Overall Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood

Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood

Omnivore griddle plate with wind guards prevents warping, recovers heat faster, and uses less fuel

Editor's Top Pick
See at Amazon

What to Look For When Buying a Flat Top Grill

Cooking Surface Size

The cooking surface is the single most important factor to consider. A bigger surface gives you more flexibility to cook multiple foods at different temperatures simultaneously, but it also means a larger footprint and more weight to move around. Here's a quick guide to matching size to your needs:

  • 17-22 inches: Ideal for 1-3 people; portable-first design for camping and travel
  • 28 inches: Sweet spot for families of four; handles a full meal with room to spare
  • 36 inches: Designed for 8+ people and serious backyard entertaining

BTU Output

Higher BTU ratings translate to faster preheat times and better heat recovery when you load the surface with cold food. BTU output must always be considered alongside cooking surface area — a 60,000 BTU burner spread across 720 square inches performs very differently than the same output on a 400-square-inch surface. General targets by griddle size:

  • Compact portables: 12,000 BTU minimum
  • Mid-size (28"): 24,000-34,000 BTU
  • Large stations (36"): 60,000 BTU or more

Construction Quality

The cooking surface material determines heat retention, ease of maintenance, and long-term durability. Key points to evaluate:

  • Cold-rolled steel: Develops a natural non-stick seasoning layer over time; preferred by serious cooks
  • Pre-seasoned carbon steel: Used by premium models like the Weber Slate; metal-tool safe right out of the box
  • Thickness: Look for at least 3mm — thicker steel holds heat better and produces more even results
  • Frame: Powder-coated steel holds up better outdoors than bare metal, which rusts without regular maintenance

Grease Management

A well-designed grease management system makes post-cook cleanup far less of a chore. The best flat top grills channel grease away from the cooking surface via a rear or side grease trap into a removable collection cup or tray. Front-channel systems require emptying more frequently and can drip if the unit isn't level. Removable grease trays that slide out cleanly are the easiest to deal with. This feature is easy to overlook when buying, but you'll notice its quality (or lack thereof) every single time you cook.

Portability vs. Features

True portability usually requires some trade-offs. Portable flat top grills typically have fewer burners, a smaller cooking area, and no built-in shelving or storage. Consider your primary use case before buying:

  • Primarily home cooking: A full-size station with side shelves and a hood gives you the best overall experience
  • Frequent transport (camping, tailgates): A lighter tabletop unit with a carrying handle is worth the compromises
  • Both: Some mid-size models with folding legs and integrated wheels strike a useful balance between the two

Heat Zones

Independent heat zones are one of the most underrated features on a flat top grill. When each burner has its own control knob, you can cook proteins at high heat on one side while keeping delicate eggs or sautéed vegetables on low heat on the other — managing an entire meal across a single surface without sacrificing quality. Entry-level griddles with one or two burners may offer limited zone control, while premium models with four independent burners give you restaurant-style flexibility. If you cook for groups or regularly prepare multi-component meals, prioritize models with at least two independently controlled zones.

Seasoning and Maintenance

Flat top grills require seasoning — a thin layer of oil baked into the cooking surface that prevents rust and creates natural non-stick properties. To season a new griddle for first use:

  1. Coat the surface with a high-smoke-point oil (flaxseed, canola, or Crisco work well)
  2. Heat until the oil smokes and polymerizes into the steel
  3. Repeat this process three to five times to build a durable coating

After each cook, scrape the surface clean while it's still warm, wipe it down, and apply a very thin layer of oil before storing. Covered storage is essential — a quality griddle cover will dramatically extend the life of your investment. For step-by-step guidance, see our flat top griddle grill guide.

Warranty and Brand Support

A strong warranty signals manufacturer confidence in their product. Beyond the coverage period, brand support matters — check what replacement parts are available and whether the brand has a track record of supporting their products long-term. Blackstone has an enormous aftermarket of replacement parts, accessories, and community resources. Warranty coverage by brand:

  • Blackstone: Limited 1-year warranty on most models
  • Weber: 5-year warranty on burners, 2 years on parts for many products
  • Camp Chef Gridiron Pro: 3-year limited warranty
  • Traeger Flatrock: 5-year limited warranty on the cook surface
  • Pit Boss PB336GS: 2-year warranty

Product Reviews

Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood
At a glance
  • Omnivore griddle plate with wind guards prevents warping, recovers heat faster, and uses less fuel
  • 768 square inches of cooking space accommodates up to 30 burgers for large gatherings
  • Four independently heated burners allow simultaneous cooking of different foods at varying temperatures
  • Patented rear grease management system guides debris to a convenient collection cup
  • Versatile cooking surface handles everything from omelets and eggs to hot dogs and stir-fries
Why we picked it

The Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged griddle stands out for its sheer cooking capacity and thoughtful engineering, making it our top overall pick. Its massive 768-square-inch cooking surface can handle meals for large crowds, from breakfast spreads to a full batch of burgers. The four independently controlled burners provide excellent heat management across this large area, allowing you to create different heat zones for searing, sautéing, and warming all at once. This level of control is essential for anyone serious about versatile outdoor cooking.

The innovative Omnivore griddle plate is a key feature, designed with integrated wind guards that improve heat retention and reduce fuel consumption. This design also helps prevent warping, a common issue with large flat tops. Cleanup is also simplified thanks to Blackstone's patented rear grease management system, which efficiently funnels grease and debris into a collection cup. These practical features make the 2310 a robust and user-friendly choice for any backyard chef.

See at Amazon
4.8BBQ Report Score
Blackstone 2142 Original 17" Tabletop Griddle
At a glance
  • 267 square inches of cooking surface
  • H-style stainless steel burner for even heat distribution
  • Stainless steel front plate — weather and corrosion resistant
  • Rear grease management channel
  • Piezo push-button ignition
  • Under 22 pounds — easy one-person carry
Why we picked it

The Blackstone 2142 is the definitive portable flat top griddle for camping trips, tailgating, and beach days. Its 267 square inches of cooking surface is powered by an H-style stainless steel burner delivering 12,500 BTUs of even heat across the entire cooking area — enough for a full campsite breakfast. The stainless steel front plate resists weather and corrosion better than the previous model, while the rear grease management channel keeps cleanup fast and tidy.

Piezo ignition eliminates the need for a lighter, and the whole unit weighs under 22 pounds. For more portable picks, see our camping flat top grills guide .

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Blackstone 1517 28" Flat Top Gas Grill Griddle Station
At a glance
  • 470 square inches of flat-rolled steel cooking surface
  • Two independently controlled burners for dual heat zones
  • Fold-up legs and wheels for easy repositioning
  • Rear grease management system
  • Classic Blackstone build quality at an accessible price
Why we picked it

The Blackstone 1517 is the sweet spot for flat top cooking — enough surface area for a family of four, dual-zone heat control, and a price that makes it one of the best-reviewed 28-inch griddles on the market. Its 470 square inches of cooking surface handles a dozen burgers or a full breakfast spread with room to spare, and two independently controlled burners let you run a high-heat sear zone alongside a gentler warm-hold zone.

Fold-up legs and wheels make it easy to reposition, and the rear grease management system simplifies post-cook cleanup significantly. Also see our full guide to the best Blackstone griddles for more options.

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4.8BBQ Report Score
Weber 36" Slate Griddle
At a glance
  • Four independent burners with individual control
  • Reaches 500°F+ for high-heat searing
  • 576 square inches of cooking surface
  • Weber Works accessory compatible
  • Weber's signature even heat distribution technology
Why we picked it

The Weber 36-inch Slate Griddle is our pick for the best premium flat top grill, setting a new standard for outdoor griddle performance. Unlike griddles with coated surfaces, the Slate uses pre-seasoned carbon steel that is fully metal-tool safe from day one and improves with every cook as the seasoning layer builds and matures. Four independent burners deliver even heat distribution across all 576 square inches of cooking surface, and the system can reach temperatures above 500°F for serious searing.

Weber Works accessory compatibility means you can add griddle-specific tools, covers, and side components over time, turning the Slate into the core of a complete outdoor cooking system.

See at Amazon
4.3BBQ Report Score
Cuisinart 17" Tabletop Gas Griddle
At a glance
  • 255 square inches of flat cooking space
  • Single stainless steel burner with 12,000 BTU output
  • Grease cup for easier cleanup
Why we picked it

The Cuisinart 17" Tabletop Gas Griddle is an ideal choice for anyone needing a compact and highly portable flat top. Its small footprint makes it perfect for apartment balconies, small patios, or taking on the road for camping and tailgating. With 255 square inches of cooking space, it provides enough room to cook for two to four people without being cumbersome. A single 12,000 BTU stainless steel burner provides ample heat for its size, capable of handling everything from pancakes to burgers.

Simplicity and ease of use are at the core of this griddle's design. Assembly is straightforward, allowing you to get it up and running quickly. The simple push-button ignition and single control knob make operation effortless. Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the easily removable grease cup, a welcome feature for a portable unit. It's a practical, no-fuss solution for adding griddle cooking to your outdoor adventures or small living space.

See at Amazon
4.7BBQ Report Score
Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 3-Burner Gas Griddle
At a glance
  • 316 square inches of flat cooking surface
  • Three independently controlled stainless steel burners
  • 24,000 BTU total output
  • Locking lid for transport and wind protection
  • Built-in grease tray for easy cleanup
  • Portable tabletop design
Why we picked it

The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is the best value portable flat top griddle for cooks who want three-zone heat control on a budget. Three independently controlled stainless steel burners deliver 24,000 BTUs across 316 square inches of cooking surface — enough to simultaneously cook proteins on high, sauté vegetables on medium, and keep finished food warm on low. A locking lid doubles as a wind guard during setup and protects the cooking surface during transport, while a built-in grease tray makes cleanup straightforward.

Solid construction and a very competitive price make this an excellent choice for RV owners, campers, and outdoor entertainers looking for more versatility than a single-burner tabletop can offer.

See at Amazon
4.7BBQ Report Score
Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24" Portable Griddle
At a glance
  • 240 square inches of cooking space
  • Two independently controlled burners
  • 24,000 BTU total output
  • Hinged lid for wind protection and transport
  • Flamethrower ignition
  • Grease system designed for outdoor cleanup
Why we picked it

The Camp Chef Gridiron Gameday 24" griddle is a premium portable option for those who need more power and control than a basic tabletop model. It features two independently controlled burners that deliver a combined 24,000 BTUs, allowing you to create two distinct heat zones. This versatility lets you sear on one side while gently cooking on the other, a feature that significantly expands your portable cooking capabilities beyond simple grilling. The 240-square-inch surface is well-sized for preparing meals for a small group.

Designed for the outdoors, this griddle includes several practical features. The hinged lid is a major advantage, as it protects the cooking surface from wind and helps lock in heat for more consistent temperatures. The reliable flamethrower ignition ensures a quick and easy start every time. It also includes an effective grease management system designed for straightforward cleanup away from home, making it a robust and well-equipped choice for serious portable cooking.

See at Amazon
4.8BBQ Report Score
Traeger Flatrock 33" 3-Zone Flat Top Grill
At a glance
  • 594 square inches across 3 TruZone independent heat zones
  • FlameLock wind-resistant construction — maintains 600°F in breezy conditions
  • Built-in LED propane fuel level gauge — unique among flat top grills
  • P.A.L. accessory rail for tool hooks, bins, and organizers
  • EZ-Clean Grease Keg for easy post-cook cleanup
Why we picked it

The Traeger Flatrock represents the most thoughtfully engineered flat top grill on the market. Three independently controlled TruZone cooking zones allow you to simultaneously sear steak at maximum heat, cook eggs at low, and toast buns in between — all on the same 594-square-inch surface without flavor crossover between zones. FlameLock wind-resistant construction and a recessed cooking surface maintain heat up to 600°F even in breezy conditions.

The built-in LED propane fuel level gauge is one of the only features of its kind on any flat top grill. A P.A.L. accessory rail runs the length of the unit for attaching Traeger-branded tool hooks, bins, and paper towel racks.

See at Amazon
4.8BBQ Report Score
Blackstone 1813 22" Tabletop Griddle with Hood
At a glance
  • 361 square inches of cooking surface — ideal for 4–6 people
  • Dual H-style burners with 24,000 BTU total output
  • Integrated hood for heat retention and wind blocking
  • Stainless steel front plate
  • Rear grease management with removable cup
  • ~38 lbs — portable but substantial
Why we picked it

The Blackstone 1813 sits in the sweet spot between a compact 17-inch tabletop and a bulky full-size griddle, making it the most practical mid-size portable flat top on the market. Its 361 square inches of cooking surface is powered by dual H-style burners producing 24,000 BTUs — plenty for feeding four to six people at a campsite or tailgate without the weight and bulk of a full station.

The integrated hood adds versatility — use it to melt cheese, heat tortillas, or block wind — while the stainless steel front plate and rear grease management keep maintenance easy between sessions. At around 38 pounds, it's manageable enough to carry to any outdoor cooking spot and is a perennial favorite with campers and RV owners. See it alongside other portable picks in our camping flat top grills guide .

See at Amazon
4.8BBQ Report Score
Camp Chef Gridiron Pro 36" Flat Top Grill with Sidekick
At a glance
  • Integrated Sidekick burner — runs independently or accepts 14" Camp Chef accessories
  • Flamethrower ignition for fast, reliable starts
  • Hinged lid for wind protection and heat retention
Why we picked it

The Camp Chef Gridiron Pro earns the Best Versatile title because no other flat top grill on the market gives you as many simultaneous cooking options in one unit. The main 36-inch griddle surface — pre-seasoned and ready to cook out of the box — handles everything a flat top should: smash burgers, breakfast spreads, stir-fries, and seared fish.

The integrated Sidekick burner is what sets it apart: a powerful open-flame side burner that can run independently as a high-BTU boiling or sautéing station, or accept any Camp Chef 14-inch accessory — pizza oven, BBQ box, or additional flat griddle — depending on what the meal calls for. Pair it with our flat top Philly cheesesteak recipe to put both surfaces to work in a single meal.

See at Amazon
Best Professional Portable

Pit Boss 2-Burner Portable Griddle

4.7BBQ Report Score
Pit Boss 2-Burner Portable Griddle
At a glance
  • 421 square inches of cooking area
  • Two stainless steel burners
  • 26,000 BTU total output
  • Ceramic-coated griddle surface
  • Lift-off cooking top for tabletop or stationary use
  • Hard cover and folding side shelves
Why we picked it

The Pit Boss 2-Burner Portable Griddle offers a substantial cooking area and robust features, blurring the line between a portable and a stationary unit. With 421 square inches of cooking space, it provides significantly more room than most tabletop models, making it suitable for larger groups. The two stainless steel burners produce a powerful 26,000 BTUs, while the ceramic-coated griddle surface provides a durable, non-stick experience with easier cleanup compared to traditional cold-rolled steel.

The design emphasizes versatility and convenience. The lift-off cooking top allows it to be used as a standalone tabletop griddle or placed on its included stand for patio use. It comes equipped with a hard cover to protect the cooking surface during transport and storage, along with folding side shelves that provide valuable prep space. This combination of size, power, and thoughtful features makes it an excellent choice for those who need a serious griddle that can still be moved when needed.

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Why Wind Protection Matters on a Flat Top

Outdoor flat tops are more exposed to wind than a grill with a lid, since the cooking surface itself has no barrier around it. A stiff breeze can cause flameouts on the burners underneath and pull heat unevenly across the plate, leaving cold spots on the windward side. This lineup handles it a few different ways: the Blackstone Omnivore griddles use built-in wind guards around the burners, several Camp Chef and Blackstone models rely on a hinged lid or hood you can partially close to cut wind exposure, and the Traeger Flatrock's FlameLock construction is engineered specifically to hold 600°F in breezy conditions.

If you cook somewhere consistently windy, prioritize one of these wind-resistant designs over an open griddle with no burner shielding at all.

Burner Design and Fuel Monitoring Features

Most griddles in this guide use straight tube burners, which can leave faint warm and cool bands across the plate. The Traeger Flatrock takes a different approach with triple U-shaped burners that double back under the steel plate, which Traeger says gives more even edge-to-edge heat with fewer hot spots than a straight-burner design. The Flatrock also includes a built-in LED propane fuel level gauge, a convenience feature none of the other griddles reviewed here offer -- on every other model, you're stuck guessing your propane level or checking a separate tank gauge.

Pre-Seasoned vs. Bare Steel Cooktops

Most griddles in this guide ship as bare cold-rolled steel, which means you'll spend the first 30-60 minutes seasoning it before your first cook. The Weber Slate is the exception in this lineup -- it comes pre-seasoned from the factory on carbon steel that Weber says is safe for metal tools and gets better with every use, so you can skip the initial seasoning process and start cooking sooner. It's a genuine convenience advantage, though the bare-steel griddles here will build an equally good seasoning layer over time with regular use.

Pre-Seasoned Cooktops and Griddle Inserts

Some higher-end flat top griddles now ship pre-seasoned from the factory, which shortens the break-in process to a quick oil wipe-down instead of several rounds of seasoning before your first cook. If you already own a gas grill and don't have room for a second appliance, a drop-in griddle insert or plate is worth considering instead of a standalone unit — it sits directly on your existing grates or grill box, giving you a flat cooking surface without buying and storing an entire second grill. The tradeoff is a smaller cooking surface and less consistent heat than a dedicated griddle with its own burners underneath.

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

A flat top grill has a smooth, solid cooking surface — called a griddle — instead of open grates. This means no grill marks, no food falling through, and the ability to cook foods like eggs, pancakes, fried rice, and delicate fish that would be impossible on a traditional grate grill. Regular grills char and smoke food through direct flame contact; flat tops cook through conductive heat from the surface, which produces a different (often superior) crust on burgers and proteins. Many cooks end up using both — a grate grill for low-and-slow BBQ and a flat top for everything else.

What's the best flat top grill for beginners?

For beginners, the Blackstone 28-inch 1517 is the ideal starting point. It's affordable, straightforward to set up, has two heat zones for basic temperature control, and the rear grease management system makes cleanup intuitive. The large community of Blackstone users also means there's an enormous amount of beginner-friendly tips, recipes, and troubleshooting content available online. See our flat top griddle grill guide for first-time setup tips.

How do you season a flat top grill for the first time?

Seasoning is the process of polymerizing oil into the steel surface to create a protective, non-stick coating. Here's the process:

  1. Heat the clean griddle to medium-high until it begins to discolor
  2. Apply a very thin layer of high-smoke-point oil — flaxseed, canola, or vegetable shortening work well — using a paper towel and tongs
  3. Let it smoke off completely, then repeat the process three to five times
  4. The surface will turn progressively darker with each round, building a durable cooking layer
After initial seasoning, a light re-oil after every cook maintains the surface and prevents rust.

Flat top grill vs. regular grill for burgers — which is better?

For smash burgers and diner-style burgers, a flat top grill wins decisively. The solid surface creates an even, edge-to-edge Maillard crust that you simply can't achieve on grates. Grate grills are better for thick, loosely-packed burgers where you want char lines and smoky flavor from direct flame. If you want the best of both, use a flat top for the smash burger technique and a grate grill for thick-cut steakhouse burgers. Try our Blackstone smash burger recipe to see the difference firsthand.

What size flat top grill do I need?
  • 17-22 inches: Best for 1-3 people; prioritize if portability is important
  • 28 inches: Sweet spot for families of four; most practical choice for a primary backyard griddle
  • 36 inches: Designed for 6-10 people; best if you entertain frequently or want maximum cooking flexibility
If you primarily cook for one or two people and value portability, go with a 17-inch. For a family of four as your primary outdoor grill, the 28-inch Blackstone 1517 is the most practical choice.
Can you use regular pots and pans on a flat top grill?

Yes — flat top grills function like an outdoor stovetop, and most pots and pans work fine on the surface, including cast-iron skillets, stainless steel pans, and stock pots. This is one of the most underrated features of a flat top grill, letting you simmer sauces, boil water for pasta, or keep dishes warm directly on the cooking surface alongside whatever else you're cooking. Avoid non-stick pans at very high griddle temperatures, as the coating can degrade.

Can you use a flat top grill in winter?

Yes, but with some adjustments. Cold ambient temperatures extend preheat times and can cause uneven heating if wind is hitting one side of the griddle harder than the other. Key tips for cold-weather griddle cooking:

  • Use a hood — it significantly improves cold-weather performance by holding heat around the cooking surface
  • Use a full 20-pound LP tank rather than a small 1-pound cylinder to ensure consistent gas pressure in cold temperatures
  • After cooking in cold or wet conditions, dry the surface thoroughly and apply a thin coat of oil before storing to prevent surface rust

How do I clean and maintain my flat top grill?

Clean the surface while it's still warm — not scorching hot — using a flat metal scraper to push food debris and grease toward the collection trough. Wipe down with a folded paper towel. For tougher residue, pour a small amount of water onto the warm surface, let it steam briefly, then scrape and wipe again. Never use soap on a seasoned surface, as it will strip the protective coating. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a very thin layer of oil with a paper towel and spread it evenly across the entire cooking area before covering and storing.

Are flat top grills good for cooking vegetables?

Flat top grills are exceptional for vegetables. The solid surface allows for fast, high-heat stir-frying that grates can't do, and you get beautiful caramelization on everything from sliced zucchini and mushrooms to onions and peppers. Because nothing falls through the cooking surface, you can also cook small vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and corn kernels directly on the flat top.

How long do flat top grills last?

A well-maintained flat top grill can last 10-15 years or more. The primary enemy of flat top longevity is rust — caused by leaving moisture on the surface, storing uncovered, or neglecting post-cook oiling. Key longevity factors:

  • The cooking surface itself rarely wears out if properly seasoned and maintained
  • Burner igniters and gas valves are the components most likely to need replacement over time
  • Replacement parts are widely available for major brands like Blackstone and Weber
  • Investing in a quality fitted cover is the single most impactful step you can take to extend the life of any flat top grill

Conclusion

Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood
Our Top Pick · Best Overall
Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" Griddle with X-Braced Hood
4.9 our overall score
Omnivore griddle plate with wind guards prevents warping, recovers heat faster, and uses less fuel
See at Amazon

The best flat top grill for you depends on how you cook, where you cook, and how many people you're feeding. Here's how our top picks break down by use case:

  • Best for backyard entertaining: The Blackstone 2310 Iron Forged 36" is the clear overall winner — 768 square inches and four independent heat zones handle everything from a full breakfast spread to a crowd's worth of smash burgers.
  • Best on a budget: The Blackstone 28-inch 1517 delivers impressive mid-size performance — the ideal first griddle for anyone new to flat top cooking.
  • Best premium pick: The Weber 36-inch Slate Griddle is in a different league — pre-seasoned carbon steel that gets better with every cook, metal-tool safe, and built to last decades.
  • Best for camping and travel: The Blackstone 17-inch 2142 is unbeatable for portability, while the Blackstone 22-inch 1813 with Hood is the right call when you need to feed more than two at the campsite.
  • Most innovative: The Traeger Flatrock 33" sets a new standard with three independent TruZone cooking zones, a built-in propane fuel sensor, and FlameLock wind resistance.
  • Most versatile: The Camp Chef Gridiron Pro pairs a full 36-inch flat top with an integrated Sidekick side burner for true multi-function outdoor cooking.

Whatever your setup, a quality flat top grill transforms outdoor cooking. Get started with our flat top Philly cheesesteak recipe or Blackstone smash burger recipe — both are crowd-pleasers that showcase exactly what a great outdoor griddle can do.

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