Countertop Griddles Buying Guide

Electric griddles feature heating elements below or embedded into the griddle plate. As these elements are turned on, they transfer that heat to the cooking surface. These griddles boast excellent heat distribution and are easy to clean and maintain, providing hassle-free cooking and maintenance in busy foodservice environments. They are slower to heat up and recover, but provide an excellent option in kitchens where gas may not be available, as well as in smaller kitchens that value versatility in equipment placement. Depending on local regulations and the specs of your unit, an electric griddle may or may not require the same exhaust system as a gas model.

• Best for small kitchens, mobile kitchens, and facilities without a gas hookup
• May require an exhaust hood

Gas griddles are designed with powerful burners located directly beneath the griddle plate, which, once ignited, allow the cooking surface to heat up quickly. With equally fast recovery times, gas griddles give you the flexibility to pivot to different temperatures and settings based on demand, making them especially helpful during busy service hours. Gas griddles are typically less expensive to operate compared to other power types, providing a cost-effective option for businesses looking to save on energy without compromising cooking performance.

• Best for large-scale foodservice operations
• Requires an exhaust hood

Outdoor griddles are large, freestanding griddles that feature expansive, flat cooking surfaces. While outdoor griddles may not produce sear marks like traditional grill grates, they are versatile and can be used to cook many of the same foods. Nevertheless, they are often compared to and mistaken for commercial grills. An outdoor griddle's generous size allows for separate heating zones, providing enhanced control over cooking temperatures so you can achieve your desired level of doneness. Additionally, these mobile units can be easily transported between locations, making them ideal for on-site cooking at catered events or outdoor gatherings.

• Best for on-site catering and outdoor cooking services
• Does not require an exhaust hood

Induction griddles are a top choice for chefs seeking precision, efficiency, and consistency in their cooking process. These specialized flat-top cooking surfaces use magnetic fields for precise temperature control and quick heat-up times. They offer the flexibility to adjust cooking temperatures with accuracy, as well as enhanced heat distribution. Additionally, the ability to quickly recover and adjust temperatures makes induction griddles a valuable asset in any busy kitchen environment. While they may come at a higher price point, their enhanced versatility and dependability make them a worthwhile investment.

• Best for high-efficiency kitchens
• Requires an exhaust hood

Teppanyaki griddles are commonly used in hibachi-style cooking. They may look like large drop-in units, but what makes these griddles unique is their heating element, which is located only in the center of the unit. This design allows food to be cooked in the center at high temperatures, then moved to the edges for warming, where it can rest until ready to serve. When a restaurant installs a teppankayi griddle, it typically features it in its front-of-house area, with seating for guests surrounding the unit. This setup allows patrons to watch as your chefs expertly prepare their meals, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

• Best for hibachi restaurants and Asian kitchens
• Requires an exhaust hood

Drop-in griddles are a space-saving option for commercial kitchens, designed to be placed into a cutout section in a countertop or table, creating a seamless and flat cooking surface. With a drop-in griddle, your staff can easily transfer food items from one surface to another, streamlining the cooking process. This design also maximizes the available cooking space, reducing the risk of flare-ups and allowing you to prepare a greater quantity of food at once. Some drop-in units come equipped with integrated grease management systems, ensuring that excess fat drains away from the cooking surface to minimize grease content and maintain a cleaner workstation.

• Best for kitchens with limited overhead space and front-of-house cooking demonstrations
• Requires an exhaust hood