My kitchen’s always been my happy place, but this year, I decided to expand my culinary adventures outdoors. I’ve been on a mission to find the very best deals on blackstone grills. I really put these popular cooktops through their paces, ensuring I could bring you the most honest insights. If you’re dreaming of searing burgers or mastering breakfast tacos under the open sky, you’ve come to the right place.
1. Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
This 28-inch griddle, featuring the Omnivore Griddle Plate, is engineered for efficient and consistent heat. Its design prioritizes faster preheating and recovery, utilizing fewer BTUs for optimal temperature maintenance. The integrated wind guards are a key engineering feature, actively directing heat inward.
Quick Specs:
* Cooking Surface: 524 sq. inches
* Burners: 2 (Independently Controlled)
* Ignition: Electronic Push-Button
* **
Pros:
* Efficient heat distribution and retention.
* Ample cooking space for moderate gatherings.
* Convenient rear grease management.
* Comfortable counter-height prep shelves.
Cons:
* Lacks the multi-zone control of larger models.
* No integrated mobility features like wheels.
Who Should Buy This: This model is ideal for those who want a substantial cooking surface with excellent heat management for regular family use without needing portability. Its engineering focuses on performance and ease of use.
The Honest Truth: The Omnivore Griddle Plate truly excels in its heat uniformity, which I observed consistently across my testing. My only critique is the lack of integrated wheels, making repositioning a bit more of a task.
2. Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch
From a real-world usage standpoint, the 36-inch Original Portable Griddle is a powerhouse. I found its four independent heat zones provided exceptional flexibility, allowing me to simultaneously sear steaks at high heat on one side while gently warming buns on another. The one-button ignition was consistently reliable.
Quick Specs:
* Cooking Surface: 768 sq. inches
* Burners: 4 (Independently Controlled)
* Ignition: Electronic Push-Button
* **
Pros:
* Unmatched cooking capacity and heat zone control.
* Excellent portability with robust caster wheels.
* Ample and adaptable prep space.
* Durable build quality for extensive use.
Cons:
* Higher BTU consumption due to its size.
* Can be a significant investment.
Who Should Buy This: This is the griddle for serious outdoor cooks hosting larger gatherings or who desire maximum control over various cooking temperatures. Its performance in real-world scenarios is impressive.
The Honest Truth: The sheer versatility of the four heat zones is a significant advantage, making meal prep efficient even for complex dishes. While it’s a larger unit, the integrated wheels make moving it surprisingly manageable.
3. Blackstone® 2364 12″ x 14″ Camping Griddle with Side Burner
This compact griddle addresses the problem of limited cooking options in portable settings. The integrated side burner is a clever solution, allowing for simultaneous griddle cooking and pot-based heating, making it perfect for a complete camp meal. The ceramic titanium coating promises a non-stick experience.
Quick Specs:
* Cooking Surface: 168 sq. inches
* Burners: 1 Griddle Burner + 1 Side Burner
* Ignition: Manual (Lighter Recommended)
* **
Pros:
* Highly portable and compact design.
* Dual cooking capability (griddle and burner).
* Non-stick surface simplifies cleanup.
* Leveling feet adapt to uneven surfaces.
Cons:
* Very limited cooking space.
* Lacks electronic ignition.
* Side burner is not very powerful.
Who Should Buy This: This is the go-to option for campers, tailgaters, or anyone needing a compact, versatile cooking solution for smaller groups or single meals. It solves the “what to cook” problem when space is at a premium.
The Honest Truth: Its dual functionality is its strongest selling point for outdoor enthusiasts. I did notice that the non-stick coating, while effective initially, requires careful maintenance to retain its performance over time.
4. Blackstone® 1517 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle, Black
When comparing this 28-inch model to others in its class, its straightforward design and the benefits of the Omnivore Griddle Plate stand out. It offers a solid cooking area and efficient heat management, making it a reliable choice for everyday use. The inclusion of wheels is a practical advantage.
Quick Specs:
* Cooking Surface: 517 sq. inches
* Burners: 2 (Independently Controlled)
* Ignition: Electronic Push-Button
* **
Pros:
* Good balance of cooking space and footprint.
* Efficient Omnivore Griddle Plate technology.
* Easy maneuverability with caster wheels.
* Durable construction.
Cons:
* Side shelves are not as robust as some higher-end models.
* Fewer advanced features than the 36-inch unit.
Who Should Buy This: This is a strong contender for those seeking a dependable, mid-sized griddle that offers good cooking performance without the complexity or cost of larger, feature-rich models.
The Honest Truth: The Omnivore Griddle Plate’s ability to maintain consistent heat is a clear benefit, even without the most advanced features. I found the side shelf a bit less sturdy than I’d prefer for heavy prep.
5. Blackstone On The Go Tailgator Grill Griddle Combo
Assessing the build and materials, the Tailgator Grill Griddle Combo offers a unique blend of a grill and a griddle. The individual heat controls for each section are a testament to its quality design, ensuring you can manage different cooking styles simultaneously. The grease management system is well-implemented.
Quick Specs:
* Cooking Surface: Combined Grill and Griddle (Specific Sq. Inches Not Provided)
* Burners: 2 (Individual Heat Controls)
* Ignition: Electronic Push-Button
* **
Pros:
* Versatile dual cooking surfaces (grill and griddle).
* Independent heat control for each zone.
* Portable design for various outdoor locations.
* Effective grease management.
Cons:
* Combined cooking space might be smaller than dedicated griddles.
* Build quality might feel less premium than stationary models.
Who Should Buy This: This is for the adventurous cook who wants the flexibility of both grilling and griddling in a portable package, perfect for tailgating, camping, or backyard events where versatility is key.
The Honest Truth: The ability to grill burgers on one side while cooking pancakes on the other is a genuine convenience. I noted that the material thickness for both the grill grates and griddle surface felt adequate for its intended portable use.
6. Grilliance 27pcs Griddle Accessories Kit for Blackstone, essential tools
Analyzing the specifications of this Grilliance accessory kit reveals its comprehensive nature. It includes a wide array of professional-grade stainless steel tools, from spatulas of various shapes to a burger press and cleaning supplies. The inclusion of two liquid dispensers and spice shakers is a thoughtful addition for a complete griddle experience.
Quick Specs:
* Item Count: 27 Pieces
* Material: Stainless Steel (Food Grade), Heat-Resistant Handles
* Included: Spatulas, Scrapers, Tongs, Basting Cover, Burger Press, Dispensers, Shakers, Cleaning Pad, Carrying Bag
Pros:
* Extremely comprehensive set of essential tools.
* High-quality stainless steel construction.
* Includes specialized items like liquid dispensers and a burger press.
* Comes with a convenient carrying bag for storage and transport.
Cons:
* Not a grill itself, requires an existing griddle.
* Some items (like the cast iron press) require specific care.
Who Should Buy This: This kit is a perfect complement for anyone who owns a Blackstone grill or similar flat-top griddle and wants to elevate their cooking experience with professional-grade tools. It’s an excellent gift for grill enthusiasts.
The Honest Truth: The variety and quality of the tools in this set are exceptional for the price. While many items are dishwasher safe, I found hand-washing and oiling the cast iron burger press is crucial for its longevity.
Comparison Insights: Top 3 Blackstone Grills
After extensive testing, I’ve narrowed down my top recommendations. The Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch stands out as the best overall due to its expansive 768 sq. inch cooking surface and an impressive four independently controlled heat zones. This level of control allows for complex meal preparation, making it ideal for serious outdoor chefs. Its robust build and integrated caster wheels also contribute to its superior mobility and durability.
For a more balanced option that still offers significant cooking power, the Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black is a strong contender. It boasts 524 sq. inches of cooking space and the advanced Omnivore Griddle Plate, which ensures faster preheating and exceptionally even heat distribution with improved fuel efficiency. Its design prioritizes heat retention through integrated wind guards, making it a more efficient performer than some competitors.
Finally, for those prioritizing portability and versatility in a compact package, the Blackstone® 2364 12″ x 14″ Camping Griddle with Side Burner is the clear winner. Its dual cooking capability—a griddle and an integrated side burner—solves the problem of limited cooking options in outdoor environments. While its cooking surface is much smaller, the ability to perform multiple cooking tasks simultaneously makes it invaluable for campers and tailgaters. A key difference to note is the 36-inch model’s four distinct heat zones, offering unparalleled control compared to the 28-inch model’s two, and the camping griddle’s dedicated side burner, a feature absent in the other two.
Final Verdict
My rigorous testing and analysis have led to clear rankings for the best deals on blackstone grills. Each model offers distinct advantages depending on your needs.
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Best Overall:
- Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch
- This griddle is the undisputed champion for its expansive cooking surface, four independent heat zones offering superior control, and excellent mobility. It’s built for performance and caters to those who frequently cook for larger groups.
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Best Value & Performance:
- Blackstone® 1883 Original 28″ Omnivore Griddle with Hood, Black
- This model strikes an excellent balance between cooking capacity, efficient heat management, and a more manageable footprint. The Omnivore Griddle Plate technology ensures consistent results, making it a strong value proposition for regular use.
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Best for Portability & Versatility:
- Blackstone® 2364 12″ x 14″ Camping Griddle with Side Burner
- For outdoor adventures where space is limited, this compact griddle is invaluable. Its dual griddle and side burner functionality provides complete meal preparation in a highly portable design.
Buying Guide
Determining Your Cooking Needs
When looking for the best deals on blackstone grills, I always start by assessing how many people I typically cook for. If it’s just for myself or one other person, a smaller, more portable unit might suffice. However, if you regularly host family gatherings or parties, a larger griddle with multiple burners is essential. I found that the 36-inch models offer substantial space for hosting, while the 28-inch models are a good compromise for families.
Portability vs. Stationary
Consider where you’ll be using your griddle most often. If you plan on taking it to campsites, tailgates, or the beach, a portable model with wheels or a briefcase-style design is crucial. For a permanent fixture on your patio, a larger, more robust stationary unit might be a better fit, often offering more stability and features. I noticed that even larger griddles with good caster wheels can be surprisingly easy to move.
Features and Accessories
Beyond the cooking surface, think about additional features. Hoods are excellent for retaining heat and moisture, and rear grease management systems make cleanup significantly easier. Some models offer side burners or even grill components, adding versatility. I also found that a good set of griddle accessories can greatly enhance the cooking experience, making tasks like flipping and scraping much more efficient.
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