Tested: Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle — Full Verdict

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle has revolutionized outdoor cooking for countless enthusiasts, offering a versatile and portable solution for everything from breakfast to dinner. This comprehensive review will delve into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it’s the right cooking appliance for your needs.

Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle Overview

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle, specifically the 1813 Original model, stands as a testament to Blackstone’s commitment to versatile outdoor cooking. It’s designed to bring the joy of griddle-style cooking to a portable and convenient format, appealing to a wide range of users from backyard chefs to avid campers.

This model distinguishes itself from traditional outdoor grills by offering a flat-top cooking surface. This design allows for a broader array of culinary creations, from fluffy pancakes and crispy bacon to perfectly seared steaks and stir-fries, making it a highly adaptable appliance for any meal of the day.

Blackstone has built a strong reputation in the outdoor cooking market for its durable and user-friendly griddles. The 22-inch tabletop version embodies these qualities, providing a robust cooking platform that is both powerful and easy to manage, even for novice griddlers.

Unlike char-grilling, which often involves flare-ups and uneven cooking, griddle cooking provides consistent heat across the entire surface. This allows for superior temperature control, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and retains its moisture, resulting in deliciously tender and flavorful dishes every time.

The compact size of the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle makes it an excellent choice for those with limited space, such as apartment dwellers with small balconies or individuals who frequently travel. Its design ensures it can be set up quickly on almost any stable surface, ready for use in minutes.

It features a durable powder-coated steel frame and a stainless steel front plate, giving it a sleek appearance and enhanced resistance to the elements. This robust construction ensures that the griddle can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, from sunny campsites to bustling tailgating events.

The inclusion of a hood is a significant upgrade for a tabletop model, adding functionality often found in larger, more expensive units. This hood allows for steaming vegetables, melting cheese, or keeping food warm, expanding the griddle’s culinary potential considerably.

Overall, the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle offers a compelling package for anyone looking to expand their outdoor cooking horizons beyond conventional grilling. Its portability, versatility, and thoughtful design make it a standout product in its category, promising delicious results and enjoyable cooking experiences.

It represents a shift in outdoor cooking preferences, as more people discover the advantages of flat-top cooking. The ability to cook an entire meal on one surface, without losing small items through grates, is a major draw. This griddle truly shines in its capacity to handle diverse menus simultaneously.

The initial setup is straightforward, typically involving minimal assembly that can be completed quickly. This ease of use extends to its operation, making it accessible even for those new to griddle cooking. The learning curve is gentle, allowing users to master various cooking techniques with practice.

Furthermore, the 22-inch cooking surface provides ample space for preparing meals for small to medium-sized groups. Whether it’s a family breakfast or a gathering of friends, this griddle can handle a significant volume of food, making it highly practical for social occasions.

The independent heat zones are another key aspect, allowing users to cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously. This feature is invaluable for preparing complex meals where different components require specific heat settings, optimizing efficiency and taste.

Blackstone’s reputation for quality means that this griddle is built to last, providing years of reliable service with proper care. Investing in a Blackstone product often means investing in a long-term outdoor cooking solution, which is a significant consideration for many consumers.

The popularity of this specific model underscores its effectiveness and user satisfaction. Thousands of positive reviews attest to its performance and the enjoyment it brings to outdoor cooking. It’s a product that consistently delivers on its promises.

Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle Key Features & Specs

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is packed with features designed to enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Understanding these specifications is key to appreciating its capabilities and why it stands out in a crowded market.

At its core is the 361 square inch cold-rolled steel cooking surface. This substantial area provides ample room to cook a variety of foods simultaneously, making it suitable for everything from multiple pancakes to several smash burgers at once. The cold-rolled steel ensures excellent heat retention and even distribution.

Powering this griddle are two independently controlled H-style burners, delivering a combined output of 30,000 BTUs. The H-style design is crucial for even heat spread across the griddle top, eliminating cold spots and ensuring consistent cooking results. Independent control allows for creating distinct heat zones, perfect for cooking different items at varying temperatures.

A standout feature is the integrated hood. This addition transforms the griddle from a simple flat top into a more versatile outdoor oven. The hood is ideal for steaming vegetables, melting cheese on burgers, keeping food warm, or even smoking certain items. It also provides protection from wind and debris when cooking.

Igniting the griddle is made easy with the Piezo ignition system. This reliable push-button ignition ensures quick and hassle-free startup every time, eliminating the need for external lighters or matches. It’s a convenient feature, especially when cooking in less-than-ideal conditions.

Cleaning up after cooking is simplified by Blackstone’s renowned rear-mounted grease management system. Excess grease and food debris are channeled into a removable grease cup located at the back of the griddle. This design prevents messy spills and makes disposal quick and easy, contributing to a cleaner cooking environment.

The griddle’s tabletop design emphasizes portability and convenience. While it does not come with an integrated stand, its compact footprint allows it to be placed on any sturdy table or surface, making it perfect for tailgating, camping trips, RV adventures, or small patio setups. Its dimensions are roughly 22.5 x 24 x 13 inches, and it weighs approximately 32 pounds.

Constructed from powder-coated steel and featuring a stainless steel front plate, the griddle is built for durability and aesthetics. The powder coating provides excellent resistance against rust and corrosion, while the stainless steel adds a touch of modern elegance and is easy to wipe clean. This robust build ensures longevity and reliable performance.

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle operates on a 1-pound propane bottle, which is ideal for portability. For extended cooking sessions, it can also be easily adapted to use a standard 20-pound propane tank with an appropriate adapter hose, offering flexibility in fuel source depending on your needs.

The thoughtful design extends to the protective lid that doubles as a wind guard, further enhancing its outdoor utility. This ensures that the burners maintain consistent heat even on breezy days, which is a common challenge with many outdoor cooking appliances.

Beyond the core features, the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle often comes with a set of basic accessories or has a wide range of compatible accessories available for purchase. These can include spatulas, scrapers, and covers, allowing users to customize their griddling experience further. The versatility of the griddle top means you can even use pots and pans on it in a pinch, making it a truly multi-functional appliance.

The robust construction and high-quality materials used in the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle ensure that it can withstand the rigors of frequent outdoor use. From the sturdy frame to the thick griddle plate, every component is designed for durability and performance, providing a reliable cooking tool for years to come. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Blackstone products.

The ease of assembly is another practical specification worth noting. Most users find that the griddle can be set up and ready for seasoning in under 30 minutes, with minimal tools required. This quick setup time means less fuss and more time enjoying your outdoor cooking adventures, a significant advantage for those on the go.

Considering its size and power, the fuel efficiency for a Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is quite reasonable. While 1-pound bottles are convenient, the option to connect to a larger tank makes it economical for longer cooking durations, offering the best of both worlds in terms of portability and sustained use.

Pros & Cons

Evaluating any product requires a balanced look at both its strengths and weaknesses. The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle, while highly acclaimed, is no exception. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what makes it shine and where it might fall short for some users.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: This griddle truly excels in its ability to cook a vast array of dishes. From breakfast staples like pancakes, eggs, and bacon to lunch items like grilled cheese and Philly cheesesteaks, and dinner options such as smash burgers, fajitas, stir-fries, and even desserts, the possibilities are virtually endless. This multi-functionality makes it a go-to appliance for any meal.

• Even Heat Distribution and Retention: Thanks to its cold-rolled steel griddle top and H-style burners, the Blackstone 22 maintains remarkably consistent heat across its entire surface. This eliminates hot and cold spots, ensuring that all food cooks evenly and perfectly, which is crucial for achieving professional-level results.

• Effective Grease Management System: The rear-mounted grease trap is a game-changer for cleanliness. It efficiently collects excess oils and food particles, making cleanup significantly easier and less messy than traditional grills. This system helps keep your cooking area tidy and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

• Portable and Compact Design: Weighing around 32 pounds and featuring a relatively small footprint, this griddle is designed for mobility. It’s easy to transport and set up for camping, tailgating, picnics, or RV trips. Its tabletop nature means it fits well in smaller spaces where a full-sized grill might not.

• Quick and Easy Cleanup: Beyond the grease management, the flat griddle surface is inherently easier to clean than grill grates. A simple scrape with a griddle scraper, followed by a wipe-down and re-oiling, is usually all it takes. This saves time and effort after every cooking session.

• Durable Construction: Built with a powder-coated steel frame and a stainless steel front plate, the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is robust and designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Its sturdy build promises longevity and reliable performance, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent use.

• Integrated Hood Adds Value: The inclusion of a hood is a significant advantage, allowing for steaming, melting, and keeping food warm. This feature expands the griddle’s cooking capabilities, making it more versatile than many other tabletop griddles that lack a cover.

Cons:

• Requires Seasoning and Ongoing Maintenance: Like all cast iron or cold-rolled steel griddles, the Blackstone 22 requires initial seasoning before first use and regular re-seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties and prevent rust. This is a commitment that some users might find cumbersome compared to maintenance-free alternatives.

• Can Be Heavy for Frequent Transport: While marketed as portable, its weight of over 30 pounds can still be a significant factor for some individuals, especially if it needs to be carried long distances or lifted frequently. This might limit its portability for users who prefer extremely lightweight gear.

• Propane Consumption with 1lb Bottles: When using 1-pound propane bottles, the fuel can deplete relatively quickly during extended cooking sessions or when cooking at high temperatures. While an adapter for a 20-pound tank is available, it’s an additional purchase and adds to the overall setup.

• No Integrated Side Tables/Shelves: As a tabletop unit, it lacks built-in side shelves or prep areas, meaning you’ll need to provide your own sturdy table and possibly separate prep space. This can be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer an all-in-one cooking station.

• Accessories Sold Separately: While Blackstone offers a wide range of accessories, many essential items like a cover, spatulas, and the 20lb propane tank adapter are often sold separately. This can add to the total cost if you don’t already own these items.

Who Should Buy the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle?

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is an incredibly versatile cooking appliance, but it’s not necessarily for everyone. Understanding its ideal user base can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your outdoor cooking adventures and lifestyle.

Campers and RV Enthusiasts: This griddle is a dream come true for those who love to explore the great outdoors. Its compact size and robust construction make it easy to pack into an RV or car. It allows for delicious, restaurant-quality meals even in remote locations, transforming camp cooking.

Tailgaters: For sports fans and concert-goers who enjoy pre-game or pre-event festivities, the Blackstone 22 is an excellent choice. It sets up quickly in a parking lot, providing a hot, versatile cooking surface for burgers, hot dogs, breakfast burritos, or whatever your tailgating heart desires.

Small Families and Couples: With 361 square inches of cooking space, the griddle is perfectly sized for preparing meals for 2-4 people. It’s large enough to cook a full breakfast or dinner without being overly cumbersome, making it ideal for everyday use on a patio or balcony.

Apartment and Condo Dwellers: Living in an apartment or condo often means limited outdoor space. The tabletop design of the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle allows it to fit comfortably on most balconies or small patios, providing a fantastic outdoor cooking option where larger grills might be impractical or prohibited.

Griddle Enthusiasts and Aspiring Griddle Chefs: If you’re passionate about flat-top cooking or want to explore its unique benefits, this griddle offers an accessible entry point. It provides the essential features and performance to master various griddling techniques and expand your culinary repertoire.

Beginners to Outdoor Cooking: The straightforward operation and reliable ignition system make the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle very beginner-friendly. It’s easier to manage heat and prevent flare-ups compared to traditional charcoal grills, offering a less intimidating entry into outdoor cooking.

Those Seeking a Supplemental Cooker: Even if you already own a traditional grill, the Blackstone 22 can be a fantastic addition. It complements grilling by allowing you to cook items that fall through grates (like eggs, onions, or stir-fries) or prepare sides while your main course grills, expanding your outdoor kitchen capabilities.

Individuals Prioritizing Versatility: If you value the ability to cook a wide range of dishes on a single appliance, from delicate seafood to hearty breakfasts, the griddle’s flat, even-heating surface is superior to grill grates for many applications. This makes it a highly versatile tool for diverse cooking needs.

Homeowners with Limited Storage: Its compact form factor means it takes up less storage space than a full-sized grill. It can be easily stored in a garage, shed, or even a larger closet when not in use, making it ideal for those who need to maximize their storage solutions.

People Who Enjoy Social Cooking: Griddle cooking is often a communal experience. The large, open surface allows for interactive cooking, where everyone can gather around to watch and chat while food is prepared. It fosters a fun, engaging atmosphere for friends and family.

Essentially, anyone looking for a portable, powerful, and versatile outdoor cooking solution that excels at flat-top cooking would find the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle to be an invaluable addition to their gear. It bridges the gap between a simple camp stove and a full-sized patio grill, offering the best of both worlds in a compact package.

Consider your typical cooking scenarios and storage constraints. If frequent travel, limited space, or a desire for diverse outdoor meals are high on your list, then this griddle is very likely an excellent investment. Its consistent performance and robust build quality ensure satisfaction for years to come.

Moreover, the ease of cleaning and maintenance, once the seasoning process is understood, adds to its appeal for practical users. It’s a tool designed for real-world application, not just occasional use, fitting seamlessly into various outdoor lifestyles and cooking routines.

FAQ about Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle, providing practical answers to common queries from users and potential buyers.

Q1: How do I properly season the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle?

A1: Seasoning is crucial for creating a non-stick surface and preventing rust. Start by washing the griddle top with hot, soapy water and rinsing thoroughly. Heat the griddle on high, then apply a thin, even layer of high smoke point oil (like flaxseed, grapeseed, or Blackstone’s griddle seasoning blend) over the entire surface. Let it burn off until it stops smoking, then repeat this process 3-5 times. The griddle should turn black and shiny, indicating a good seasoning layer. This initial seasoning is vital for optimal performance and longevity.

Q2: Can I use a 20lb propane tank with this griddle?

A2: Yes, absolutely. While the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is designed to run on 1-pound propane bottles for portability, you can easily connect it to a standard 20-pound propane tank using a separate adapter hose. This is a highly recommended accessory for longer cooking sessions or for use at home, as it’s more economical and convenient than frequently replacing 1-pound bottles. Ensure the adapter hose is specifically designed for griddles or low-pressure propane appliances.

Q3: Is the griddle top removable for cleaning?

A3: Yes, the griddle top on the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is designed to be easily removable. This feature simplifies both initial seasoning and deep cleaning. After cooking, you can scrape off excess food, let it cool, and then lift the griddle top off the base for more thorough cleaning and maintenance. This also makes it easier to store the griddle base separately if needed.

Q4: How does the integrated hood benefit cooking?

A4: The integrated hood adds significant versatility. It acts like an oven lid, allowing you to steam vegetables, melt cheese on burgers or sandwiches, or keep food warm while other items finish cooking. It also helps to prevent excessive heat loss on windy days and protects your food from external elements. This feature elevates the cooking capabilities beyond a simple open flat top.

Q5: What kind of meals can I cook on the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle?

A5: The possibilities are nearly endless! You can cook full breakfasts (pancakes, eggs, bacon, hash browns), lunch items (Philly cheesesteaks, grilled cheese, quesadillas), and dinners (smash burgers, fajitas, stir-fries, fried rice, chicken, fish, vegetables). The flat top is also excellent for searing steaks or making grilled sandwiches. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths.

Q6: How does it compare to a traditional charcoal or gas grill?

A6: A griddle offers a fundamentally different cooking experience. Grills use open flame or grates, ideal for charring and direct heat cooking. Griddles provide a solid, even-heating surface, perfect for foods that might fall through grates, require a crust (like smash burgers), or benefit from consistent, all-over heat. Griddles are generally better for breakfast foods, stir-fries, and anything requiring a flat, non-stick surface, while grills excel at smoky flavors and distinct grill marks. The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle complements, rather than replaces, a traditional grill.

Q7: What maintenance does the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle require after each use?

A7: After each use, while the griddle is still warm, scrape off any food debris into the grease trap. Wipe the surface clean with paper towels. For stubborn spots, you can use a small amount of water or a griddle cleaning brick. Once clean, apply a very thin layer of cooking oil to the entire griddle surface to protect it from rust and maintain the seasoning. This quick routine ensures your griddle stays in top condition and ready for the next cookout.

Q8: Is the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle suitable for indoor use?

A8: No, the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is designed exclusively for outdoor use. It uses propane gas, which produces carbon monoxide and requires proper ventilation. Using it indoors, even in a garage with the door open, is not recommended due to safety concerns regarding carbon monoxide buildup. Always operate this griddle in well-ventilated outdoor areas.

Final Verdict

The Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle stands out as an exceptional outdoor cooking appliance, offering a compelling blend of versatility, portability, and robust performance. It has earned its stellar reputation by consistently delivering delicious results across a wide spectrum of culinary creations, from breakfast to dinner.

Its 361 square inches of cold-rolled steel cooking surface, coupled with two independently controlled burners, ensures even heat distribution and precise temperature management. This allows users to cook multiple items simultaneously at different heat settings, a significant advantage over many conventional grills.

The integrated hood is a thoughtful addition, expanding its capabilities for steaming, melting, and keeping food warm, making it far more than just a flat top. This feature adds a layer of convenience and functionality that enhances the overall cooking experience.

While the need for seasoning and ongoing maintenance might be a minor consideration for some, the benefits of a well-maintained griddle—a naturally non-stick surface and incredible flavor—far outweigh this effort. The rear-mounted grease management system also makes post-cook cleanup remarkably simple.

For campers, RV enthusiasts, tailgaters, and those with limited outdoor space, the portability and compact design of the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle make it an ideal choice. It transforms any outdoor gathering or adventure into a gourmet experience, without the bulk of larger units.

The build quality, featuring powder-coated steel and a stainless steel front plate, assures durability and longevity, promising years of reliable service. This makes it a sound investment for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor kitchen setup with a high-performing and adaptable appliance.

Ultimately, the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile, easy-to-use, and highly effective outdoor cooking solution. It provides an unparalleled platform for creative cooking, fostering memorable meals and enjoyable outdoor experiences. It truly is a remarkable piece of equipment that delivers on its promises.

We highly recommend the Blackstone 22 Tabletop Griddle for its outstanding performance and value. It’s a product that will quickly become a favorite for anyone who loves to cook outdoors and desires the flexibility that only a griddle can offer. Explore the endless possibilities it brings to your backyard, campsite, or tailgate party. You won’t be disappointed with this incredible outdoor cooking companion. For more information on outdoor cooking techniques and equipment, you can visit Blackstone Products’ official website or learn about the history of cooking surfaces on Wikipedia.