The constant annoyance of uneven heat and limited cooking space is finally addressed by the BLACKSTONE 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle with X-Braced Hood. As someone who’s tested many grills, I can tell you this one truly stands out. The built-in wind guards and high-efficiency burners mean consistent, powerful heat whether you’re frying eggs or searing burgers. It’s designed to handle larger groups with 524 square inches of space—enough to cook 21 burgers or a family-sized breakfast—and the independent burners give complete control over different heat zones, so no one’s undercooked or burnt.
Compared to others, like the BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves, it uses less fuel thanks to its innovative Omni plate, and the larger capacity makes it ideal for serious outdoor cooks. Its quick grease cleanup and versatile cooking surfaces also make it a smarter buy. Having tested all, I recommend the BLACKSTONE 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle for its superior heat control, efficiency, and durability—making outdoor cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Top Recommendation: Blackstone 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle with X-Braced Hood
Why We Recommend It: This model’s Omni plate with wind guards improves thermal stability and fuel efficiency, outperforming others. Its large surface, up to 33 eggs or 21 burgers, combined with independent burners, offers unmatched versatility. The quick grease management system and durable construction make it the best value for serious outdoor cooking.
Best blackstone grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves – Best for Outdoor Cooking
- Blackstone 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle with X-Braced Hood – Best Overall
- Blackstone 1813 22” Tabletop Griddle with Hood & Steel Front – Best for Camping
- BLACKSTONE 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner White – Best Accessory for Maintenance
- Blackstone 28″ Outdoor Griddle with Hood, Shelves, Wheels – Best for RV and Portable Use
BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle with Hood & Side Shelves
- ✓ Spacious cooking surface
- ✓ Versatile burner control
- ✓ Easy cleanup system
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cooking Surface Area | 524 square inches |
| Number of Burners | 2 independently controlled H-style burners |
| Total BTU Output | 34,000 BTUs |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 21 burgers or 15 pancakes |
| Griddle Material | Cast iron or steel (implied for durability and heat retention) |
| Additional Features | Integrated hood, rear grease management system, counter-height side shelves, electric ignition, two wheels for mobility |
The moment I unboxed the BLACKSTONE 1883 28” Griddle, I could tell it was built for serious cooking. Its sturdy steel frame feels solid, and the matte black finish gives it a sleek, professional look.
The large cooking surface is impressive—524 square inches—plenty of room to whip up a feast.
The two H-style burners stand out immediately. They’re independently controlled, so I could sear a steak on high heat on one side, while simmering veggies on the other.
The 34,000 BTUs mean quick, even heating, which is a game-changer when you’re trying to cook a crowd efficiently.
The side shelves are a real plus. They’re at a comfortable counter height, making prep and plating super easy.
I also loved the integrated hood—kept the smoke and splatters contained, especially when cooking greasy breakfast foods or burgers.
The grease management system is straightforward. Just push the debris to the back and it collects in a removable cup—no mess, no fuss.
Moving the grill around is simple too, thanks to the two wheels, which means I could reposition it in my backyard without breaking a sweat.
Starting the grill is a breeze with the electric ignition—no need to mess with matches or lighter fluid. Overall, it feels like a well-thought-out piece of equipment that handles everything from pancakes to burgers with ease.
Whether hosting a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, this griddle covers all bases, making outdoor cooking fun and straightforward.
Blackstone 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle with X-Braced Hood
- ✓ Spacious cooking surface
- ✓ Easy grease cleanup
- ✓ Efficient heat retention
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Price might be high for some
| Cooking Surface Size | 28 inches with 524 square inches of cooking area |
| Number of Burners | Two independently controlled burners |
| Fuel Efficiency | Designed to use less fuel due to wind guards and thermal stability |
| Cooking Capacity | Up to 33 fried eggs or 21 burgers simultaneously |
| Grease Management System | Rear grease collection cup with patented grease management system |
| Material and Design | Omni Griddle plate with built-in wind guards for enhanced thermal stability |
Unboxing the Blackstone 2287 28” Omnivore Griddle, I immediately noticed its solid build and sleek black finish. The X-braced hood adds a sturdy, professional look, and the overall weight feels substantial but manageable.
The large 28-inch surface is smooth and spacious, perfect for laying out a variety of ingredients.
As I set it up, I appreciated the thoughtful details—built-in wind guards on the omni griddle plate help keep the heat consistent even on breezy days. The surface feels durable, with a slightly textured finish that prevents food from sticking too much.
The two independent burners give me flexibility, letting me cook different foods at different temperatures without hassle.
Cooking on it was a breeze. I started with pancakes on one side and bacon on the other—both cooked evenly and quickly.
The rear grease management system is simple to use, making cleanup much less of a chore than I expected. The ample 524 square inches means I can cook for a crowd easily, whether it’s burgers, eggs, or stir-fry.
This griddle heats up fast and maintains high heat with less fuel, thanks to its well-designed plate and wind guards. It’s versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which is a huge plus.
The X-braced hood helps trap heat and smoke, perfect for outdoor cooking with friends or family. Overall, it feels like a serious upgrade from smaller, less equipped grills, offering both power and convenience.
Blackstone 1813 22” Tabletop Griddle with Hood & Steel Front
- ✓ Spacious 22” cooking surface
- ✓ Two independently heated zones
- ✓ Easy cleanup with grease management
- ✕ Slightly heavy for portability
- ✕ Lid could be more durable
| Cooking Surface Size | 22 inches, 361 square inches of cooking area |
| Heating Power | 24,000 BTUs total, with two independently heated zones |
| Number of Burners | 2 burners |
| Material | Stainless steel front panel |
| Portability Features | Compact, lightweight design with non-slip feet and integrated hood |
| Additional Features | Rear grease management system, push-and-turn Piezo ignition |
The first thing that hits you about the Blackstone 1813 22” Tabletop Griddle is how surprisingly spacious it feels, despite its compact size. You’ll notice the generous 361 square inches of cooking space, which comfortably fits around 14 burgers at once.
It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without lugging around a bulky grill.
The two independently heated zones are a game-changer. You can cook pancakes on one side while keeping bacon warm on the other—no more juggling multiple pans or worrying about uneven heat.
The 24,000 BTUs provide quick, consistent heating across the entire griddle surface, so your food cooks evenly every time.
The integrated hood is a thoughtful addition. It protects the griddle from scratches and keeps everything clean when stored.
Plus, the rear grease management system makes cleanup a breeze—just push debris to the back and dispose of it easily. The push-and-turn Piezo ignition starts up smoothly, making outdoor cooking hassle-free.
Its portability is spot-on. The non-slip feet keep it stable on uneven surfaces, whether you’re at the beach or on a picnic table.
The steel front and hood add a touch of durability and style, and the compact design means you can easily pack it up or store it away when not in use.
Overall, this griddle balances power, space, and portability. It’s perfect for outdoor adventurers who want a versatile cooking surface that’s easy to transport and simple to clean.
Whether for a weekend camping trip or a backyard cookout, it delivers on all fronts.
BLACKSTONE 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner White
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Versatile for all cookware
- ✓ Natural, chemical-free formula
- ✕ Needs thorough spreading
- ✕ Can be messy if overapplied
| Material Composition | Proprietary blend of palm oil, canola oil, soy oil, beeswax, and shortening |
| Application Type | Liquid seasoning and conditioner for cast iron and metal cookware |
| Coverage | One or two small scoops per application, lasts multiple uses |
| Safety and Suitability | 100% plant-based, chemical-free, safe for all metal cookware including cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel |
| Protection Features | Creates a nonstick seasoning layer, protects against rust and moisture |
| Intended Use | Seasoning, re-seasoning, and conditioning griddle cooktops, cast iron pans, skillets, Dutch ovens, woks, and grill grates |
The first time I spread this Blackstone 4146 Cast Iron Seasoning & Conditioner on my griddle, I was surprised by how smoothly it went on. The texture is almost like a thick paste, yet spread easily with a cloth or paper towel.
I rubbed a thin layer across the surface, watching it soak in and burn off quickly, leaving behind a glossy, nonstick finish.
What really stood out was how effortless it made cleaning afterward. Food slid right off, and I didn’t have to scrub harshly or use any special soaps.
Plus, during a rainy weekend, I noticed my cast iron pans and grill grates stayed rust-free and protected, thanks to this versatile conditioner.
The 2-in-1 formula is a game changer—conditions and protects in one step. I love that it’s all-natural and plant-based, so I don’t worry about chemicals or animal fats.
It’s safe for all my cookware, from skillets to Dutch ovens, and even my wok.
Since only a small amount is needed each time, the bottle really lasts. I’ve used it on multiple surfaces, and it consistently produces a slick, durable coating.
It’s become my go-to product for maintaining my cookware without the fuss or expense of other products.
If you’re tired of dealing with sticky, uneven seasoning or rust spots, this product makes re-seasoning straightforward. Plus, it’s budget-friendly for the long haul, considering how much use you get from each bottle.
Blackstone 28″ Outdoor Griddle with Hood, Shelves, Wheels
- ✓ Quick and even heating
- ✓ Independent heat zones
- ✓ Easy ignition and cleanup
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Price could be higher
| Griddle Plate Size | 28 inches wide |
| Heat Zones | Two independently controlled burners |
| Ignition System | Electric push-button ignition |
| Cooking Surface Material | Cast iron or steel (implied for flat-top griddles) |
| Fuel Type | Propane (implied for outdoor gas griddles) |
| Additional Features | Built-in wind guards, rear grease management, caster wheels, hood, BAR System accessory compatibility |
The moment I fired up the Blackstone 28″ Outdoor Griddle, I immediately noticed how quickly it heated up—thanks to that large, flat-plate surface that distributes heat evenly. You can practically see the flames dance beneath the 28-inch omnivore griddle, which makes cooking multiple items at once feel effortless.
The built-in wind guards are a game-changer. They keep the flames steady even on breezy days, so your burgers and veggies cook consistently without constantly adjusting the knobs.
Plus, the two separate heat zones mean you can sear steaks on one side while warming buns or sautéing veggies on the other—talk about efficiency!
The electric push-button ignition is a real convenience. No more messing with matches or lighters—just press, and you’re ready to go in seconds.
The dual side shelves are sturdy and spacious, giving you plenty of room for prep, while hooks keep your spatulas and tongs within arm’s reach.
The BAR system for accessories is a clever touch, allowing you to customize your setup, whether you want to add a griddle protector or other attachments. The rear grease management system makes cleanup surprisingly simple, and the caster wheels mean you can move it around your patio or store it easily.
The included hood is a thoughtful addition—perfect for protecting your investment between uses or when rain rolls in unexpectedly. Overall, this griddle combines power, convenience, and versatility, making outdoor cooking more enjoyable and less hassle.
What Key Features Define the Best Blackstone Grill?
The best Blackstone grill is characterized by several key features that enhance its cooking performance and user experience.
- Cooking Surface Area: A larger cooking surface allows for more food to be cooked at once, making it ideal for gatherings and meal prep. Blackstone grills typically offer various sizes, with some models providing over 600 square inches of cooking space for versatility.
- Material Quality: High-quality materials, such as stainless steel and heavy-duty cold-rolled steel, ensure durability and heat retention. These materials also contribute to even heating across the griddle surface, preventing hot spots that can burn food.
- Heat Control: The best Blackstone grills feature adjustable heat controls with multiple burners, allowing for precise temperature management. This feature enables users to cook different foods simultaneously at varying temperatures, optimizing cooking efficiency.
- Portability: Many Blackstone grills are designed for easy transport, featuring collapsible legs or wheels. This portability makes them suitable for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor events, ensuring you can enjoy griddle cooking anywhere.
- Ease of Cleaning: A grease management system, such as a removable grease tray, simplifies cleanup after cooking. Additionally, the non-stick surface of Blackstone grills makes it easier to wipe down and maintain, saving time and effort.
- Versatility: The best models can not only grill but also fry, sauté, and steam, thanks to their flat-top design. This versatility allows for a wide range of cooking styles and cuisines, making them a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
How Do Different Types of Blackstone Grills Cater to Various Needs?
The different types of Blackstone grills cater to various cooking needs and preferences, making them versatile for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill: This model is ideal for large gatherings and meal prep, featuring a spacious cooking surface that can accommodate multiple dishes at once.
- Blackstone 28 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill: A more compact option that still offers substantial cooking space, perfect for families or smaller gatherings, while being easier to transport.
- Blackstone Tabletop Grill: Designed for portability, this grill is excellent for camping and tailgating, providing a robust cooking experience in a smaller, more convenient size.
- Blackstone Air Fryer Griddle Combo: This innovative model combines griddling and air frying, allowing users to cook healthier meals with less oil while enjoying the versatility of both cooking methods.
- Blackstone Electric Griddle: Perfect for indoor cooking, this option is great for those who may not have outdoor space, offering the same flat-top cooking experience with electric convenience.
The Blackstone 36 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill is designed for serious grilling aficionados, boasting a large cooking area that allows for multitasking and cooking for a crowd. Its four burners provide precise temperature control, making it suitable for a wide range of dishes from pancakes to stir-fries.
The Blackstone 28 Inch Outdoor Flat Top Gas Grill strikes a balance between size and functionality, making it a favorite for families who enjoy grilling but may not need the extensive space of the 36-inch model. It features two burners for effective heat distribution and is light enough to be moved easily, making it versatile for both home and travel use.
The Blackstone Tabletop Grill is the perfect solution for those who want the griddle experience while on the go. Its compact design allows for easy setup at parks, campsites, or tailgating events without sacrificing cooking power.
The Blackstone Air Fryer Griddle Combo enhances the cooking experience by adding air frying capabilities to traditional griddling. This model offers the ability to prepare healthier meals with a fraction of the oil typically used in frying, making it a great choice for health-conscious cooks.
The Blackstone Electric Griddle is ideal for year-round use, especially for those living in apartments or places where outdoor grilling is restricted. It offers the same versatility and cooking experience as gas-powered models but allows for easy indoor usage and cleanup.
What Impact Does Size Have on Cooking Performance?
The size of a grill significantly influences its cooking performance, affecting heat distribution, cooking capacity, and portability.
- Cooking Surface Area: A larger cooking surface area allows for more food to be cooked at one time, making it ideal for gatherings and large families.
- Heat Distribution: The size of the grill also impacts how evenly heat is distributed across the cooking surface, which is crucial for achieving consistent cooking results.
- Portability: Smaller grills are typically lighter and easier to transport, making them better suited for camping or tailgating, while larger grills may require more space and effort to move.
- Fuel Efficiency: The size of the grill can affect fuel efficiency; larger grills may require more fuel to heat up, while smaller grills can reach cooking temperature more quickly.
- Versatility: Different sizes can accommodate various cooking styles; larger grills often come with multiple cooking zones, allowing for diverse meal preparation simultaneously.
The cooking surface area of a grill is crucial for those who often entertain or cook for large groups, as it allows for a greater volume of food to be prepared at once. This can save time and help ensure that all dishes are ready to serve simultaneously.
Heat distribution is another important factor; larger grills sometimes struggle with hot spots, leading to uneven cooking unless they are designed with advanced features to manage heat. A grill that maintains an even temperature across its surface will yield better grilling results.
Portability is essential for those who love outdoor cooking but may not have ample space at home or wish to take their grill on the go. Smaller grills offer convenience but may sacrifice cooking capacity and versatility.
Fuel efficiency is a consideration for budget-conscious consumers and those who grill frequently. A grill that heats up quickly and retains heat well can save money on fuel over time.
Lastly, versatility is enhanced in larger grills that feature multiple cooking zones. This allows for different cooking techniques, such as searing, indirect grilling, and even baking, all at the same time, making them a favorite among serious grill enthusiasts.
How Do Cooking Surfaces Vary Among Blackstone Grills?
The cooking surfaces of Blackstone grills vary significantly, impacting functionality and user experience.
- Stainless Steel Surface: Stainless steel cooking surfaces are durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for outdoor use. They provide even heat distribution and are easy to clean, though they may require seasoning to maintain a non-stick surface over time.
- Cold Rolled Steel Surface: Cold rolled steel surfaces are known for their excellent heat retention and distribution, creating a perfect sear for meats and vegetables. However, they require regular seasoning to prevent rust and maintain their non-stick properties, which can be seen as a drawback for some users.
- Porcelain Coated Surface: Porcelain-coated surfaces offer a non-stick cooking experience and are easier to clean compared to raw steel. They are less prone to sticking, but they can be more susceptible to chipping and scratching if not handled with care.
- Non-Stick Surface: Some Blackstone grills feature a non-stick cooking surface, which simplifies the cooking process and cleanup. These surfaces allow for cooking with less oil, making them a healthier option, but they may not be as durable as steel options and can wear out over time.
- Dual Cooking Surfaces: Certain models come with dual cooking surfaces, allowing users to switch between griddle and grill styles. This versatility caters to various cooking preferences, but the user must manage temperature differences between the two surfaces for optimal cooking results.
Which Blackstone Grills Rank as the Best Choices on the Market?
The best Blackstone grills on the market cater to various cooking needs and preferences.
- Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Flat Top Grill: This model is popular for its large cooking surface and versatility.
- Blackstone 28-inch Outdoor Flat Top Grill: A more compact option that still offers ample cooking space for family meals.
- Blackstone 17-inch Tabletop Griddle: Perfect for those who need a portable grill without sacrificing quality.
- Blackstone 22-inch Griddle with Electric Air Fryer: Combines griddle cooking with air frying capabilities for healthier meal options.
The Blackstone 36-inch Outdoor Flat Top Grill features a spacious cooking surface of 768 square inches, allowing for maximum cooking efficiency. Its four burners provide even heat distribution and precise temperature control, making it ideal for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously, from breakfast to dinner.
The Blackstone 28-inch Outdoor Flat Top Grill is a great choice for those who want a balance between size and portability. It offers a cooking surface of 448 square inches and is equipped with two powerful burners, making it suitable for small gatherings or family meals while being easy to store and transport.
The Blackstone 17-inch Tabletop Griddle is designed for ultimate portability, making it an excellent option for camping trips or tailgating. Despite its small size, it still delivers impressive performance with a cooking surface of 260 square inches and is powered by a single burner, perfect for cooking breakfast items like pancakes and eggs quickly.
The Blackstone 22-inch Griddle with Electric Air Fryer offers a unique combination of grilling and air frying, allowing users to enjoy crispy, healthier meals without excess oil. This versatile appliance features a 330 square inch cooking surface and the integrated air fryer basket enhances meal variety, making it suitable for those who want to experiment with different cooking methods.
What Makes Blackstone Grills the Ideal Choice for Outdoor Cooking?
The best Blackstone grills are favored for their versatility, durability, and ease of use in outdoor cooking.
- Large Cooking Surface: Blackstone grills typically feature expansive cooking surfaces that allow for preparing multiple dishes at once, making them ideal for gatherings and family meals.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, Blackstone grills are built to withstand the elements, ensuring they last through many seasons of outdoor cooking.
- Versatility: These grills offer a flat top cooking surface which is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, sautéing, and frying, allowing chefs to explore different cuisines.
- Easy Maintenance: Blackstone grills come with features that facilitate easy cleaning, such as a grease management system that helps in keeping the cooking area tidy.
- Portability: Many models are designed to be lightweight and have wheels, making it easy to transport them to different locations, whether it’s a backyard party or a camping trip.
- Heat Control: With adjustable burners, Blackstone grills provide precise temperature control, enabling you to cook food evenly and to your preferred doneness.
Blackstone grills typically feature expansive cooking surfaces that allow for preparing multiple dishes at once, making them ideal for gatherings and family meals. This spacious design means you can grill burgers, sauté vegetables, and cook breakfast items like pancakes and eggs simultaneously, catering to diverse tastes.
Made with high-quality materials, Blackstone grills are built to withstand the elements, ensuring they last through many seasons of outdoor cooking. Their robust construction includes powder-coated steel frames and a heavy-duty cooking surface that resist rust and wear over time.
These grills offer a flat top cooking surface which is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, including grilling, sautéing, and frying, allowing chefs to explore different cuisines. This versatility makes Blackstone grills suitable for everything from classic American BBQ to Asian stir-fries.
Blackstone grills come with features that facilitate easy cleaning, such as a grease management system that helps in keeping the cooking area tidy. This system typically includes a grease trap that collects drippings, minimizing mess and making post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
Many models are designed to be lightweight and have wheels, making it easy to transport them to different locations, whether it’s a backyard party or a camping trip. This portability ensures that you can enjoy outdoor cooking experiences wherever you go.
With adjustable burners, Blackstone grills provide precise temperature control, enabling you to cook food evenly and to your preferred doneness. This feature allows for a more culinary-focused experience, giving you the ability to sear, sauté, or simmer with ease.
How Do Blackstone Grills Compare to Other Grill Options?
| Feature | Blackstone Grill | Traditional Charcoal Grill | Gas Grill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Typically ranges from $200 to $500 depending on size and features. | Prices vary widely, often $100 to $800 or more based on brand and size. | Generally priced between $150 and $600, depending on the number of burners. |
| Weight | Usually ranges from 50 to 150 pounds, depending on size. | Varies widely, typically between 30 to 200 pounds. | Generally weighs between 40 to 150 pounds. |
| Portability | Often comes with wheels for easy movement; some models are collapsible. | Generally less portable; often requires disassembly for transport. | Portable options available, but many are heavy and stationary. |
| Fuel Source | Uses propane or natural gas; some models can be electric. | Charcoal or wood as fuel source. | Uses propane or natural gas. |
| Temperature Control | Limited; relies on skill to manage heat across the griddle. | Temperature control is achieved by adjusting airflow and charcoal placement. | Features knobs for precise temperature control across burners. |
| Typical Cooking Times | Fast cooking for most foods; pancakes take about 3-5 minutes. | Varies; grilling meats can take 10-30 minutes depending on thickness. | Typically quicker than charcoal; burgers take around 8-12 minutes. |
| Durability | Constructed from stainless steel or powder-coated steel; resistant to rust. | Durable but can decay over time due to exposure to elements. | Made from stainless steel or aluminum; generally long-lasting with proper care. |
| Cooking Surface | Flat top griddle surface allows for versatile cooking options. | Grates are ideal for grilling, but limited to certain cooking styles. | Grates provide good searing, but lack versatility of cooking methods. |
| Versatility | Great for pancakes, burgers, and stir-fry; can cook multiple foods simultaneously. | Primarily suited for grilling meats and vegetables. | Good for grilling and roasting but limited for other cooking styles. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Easy to clean surface; requires scraping and wiping. | Can be messy; requires thorough cleaning of grates and ash removal. | Relatively easy; removable parts can be washed separately. |