Tabletop Grill Recommendations: Your Guide to Indoor Grilling

The craving for grilled food knows no season or place. But not everyone has a garden or balcony to use a classic charcoal grill. A tabletop grill offers a practical solution for year-round grilling enjoyment in the comfort of your own home. However, the selection of models is vast, ranging from simple electric grills to multifunctional devices.

This article serves as a guide. We will introduce different types of appliances and explain which features are relevant to your purchasing decision. The goal is to provide you with an objective basis to find the right appliance for your kitchen.

What to Look for When Buying a Tabletop Grill?

Choosing the right appliance depends on your cooking habits and needs. Three key aspects will help you decide.

1. Type of Appliance: Contact Grill, Multi-Grill, or Classic Grill Plate?

The functionality largely determines how you will use your appliance.

• Contact Grill: This device has two heated plates that cook the food from above and below simultaneously. This shortens the cooking time and is ideal for sandwiches, paninis, or evenly cooked meat. Many models can also be opened flat to be used as an open tabletop grill.
• Multi-Grill / Multi-Cooker: These all-rounders combine several functions in one device. They often feature interchangeable plates for different cooking methods, such as a hot pot function, a smooth plancha plate, or even moulds for pancakes. They are a great choice for households that value versatility and want to save space.
• Grill Plate: A classic grill plate, often made of cast iron, is heated on an existing heat source like a stove or in the oven. It focuses on the core competency of grilling: creating intense roasted flavours and characteristic grill marks.

2. Cleaning and Handling

For indoor use, easy cleaning is crucial. A tabletop grill with removable plates makes cleanup significantly easier. Check if the plates are dishwasher-safe, which further minimises the effort. An effective grease drip tray is also an important feature to keep your work surface clean.

3. Power and Temperature Control

The power, specified in watts, affects the heat-up time and the grill's ability to maintain a constant temperature. Models with 1800 to 2200 watts are considered powerful. A continuously variable or multi-stage temperature control is advantageous for cooking various foods—from delicate vegetables to thick steaks—to perfection. Some devices even offer separately controlled heating zones for more flexibility.

Our Tabletop Grill Recommendations

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of devices with different specialities.

Bear 3-in-1 Electric Multi-Cooker

• What sets it apart: This appliance is a prime example of a multi-grill. It combines three functions with interchangeable inserts: a 4-litre pot with a glass lid for a hot pot function or stews, a grill plate for meat and vegetables, and a plate for six small pancakes or fried eggs. The power is continuously adjustable between 1200 and 1400 watts.

• Advantages:

  • 3-in-1 Functionality: Grill, cook (hot pot), and bake in one device.
  • Non-Stick Coating: All plates are coated with a food-safe non-stick layer, which simplifies preparation and cleaning.
  • Compact Design: Ideal for smaller kitchens and social dining with a small group.

• Who is it for? For households of 2-3 people who enjoy varied and interactive meals and are looking for a versatile appliance that replaces several kitchen gadgets.

Le Creuset Signature Grill Plate 30 cm

• What sets it apart: This grill plate made of enamelled cast iron represents a pure and high-quality grilling experience. The material is known for its excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring even browning and intense roasted flavours. The matte black enamel surface develops a natural patina over time, which improves its non-stick properties.

• Advantages:

  • Material:Enamelled cast iron ensures excellent heat retention and durability.
  • Versatility: Suitable for all hob types, including induction, as well as for the oven and outdoor grill.
  • Grilling Results: The ridges create characteristic grill marks and drain away excess fat.

• Who is it for? For cooking enthusiasts who value authentic grilling results and are looking for durable, high-quality cookware that can be used on existing hobs.

Braun MultiGrill 7 CG7010 Contact Grill

• What sets it apart: The Braun MultiGrill 7 is a powerful contact grill with 2000 watts. Its special features are the three grilling positions (closed as a contact grill, open as a tabletop grill, and elevated in an oven mode) and the separately adjustable temperature for the upper and lower plates. This allows for precise control over the cooking process.

• Advantages:

  • High Power: Fast heat-up and constant heat up to 230 °C.
  • Flexible Temperature Control: The two plates can be controlled individually, ideal for different types of food.
  • Easy Cleaning: The removable plates made of cast aluminium are dishwasher-safe.

• Who is it for? For users who want a powerful and flexible electric tabletop grill for the quick preparation of meat, sandwiches, and vegetables, and who place a high value on hassle-free cleaning.

Looking for More Options?

The models presented here cover different needs but represent only a fraction of the available options. If you are looking for other variations or specialised plates, you will find a wider selection in our range.

? Discover more models in our Grill Plate category

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can you safely use a tabletop grill indoors? Yes, an electric tabletop grill or indoor grill is designed for use in enclosed spaces. Unlike charcoal or gas grills, there is no open flame, and smoke production is minimal. Nevertheless, it is recommended to ensure good ventilation, for example, by opening a window or using a range hood.

2. What is the difference between a contact grill and a tabletop grill? A classic tabletop grill has a single, open grilling surface, similar to a grate. A contact grill, on the other hand, has two heating plates that cook the food from both sides simultaneously. Many modern contact grills can be opened flat and thus also be used as an open tabletop grill, which increases their flexibility.

3. What is the best way to clean a cast iron grill plate? A cast iron grill plate should be cleaned with warm water and a brush after it has cooled down. Harsh detergents or the dishwasher should be avoided to preserve the developing patina (natural non-stick layer). After cleaning, it is important to dry the plate completely and lightly coat it with cooking oil before storing it to protect it from rust.