When it comes to the heart of your hospitality business – the kitchen – choosing the right equipment can make all the difference. Two titans of the culinary world, the gas griddle and the gas grill, each offer their own unique capabilities. But which one is the best fit for your business? 

Whether you're serving up mouthwatering burgers in a fast-paced diner, or perfecting delicate seared scallops in a high-end eatery, we're here to help you make an informed decision. 

In this blog post, we'll pit the gas griddle against the gas grill, considering factors like versatility, ease of use, and the specific cooking results you can achieve with each. So, buckle up and get ready for a flavorful journey to find the perfect cooking companion for your business.

Table Of Contents:

  • Gas Griddle vs. Gas Grill: Which Is Right for You?

    • Understanding Gas Griddles

    • Unfolding Gas Grills

    • Comparing Gas Griddles and Gas Grills

      • Cooking Performance

      • Versatility

      • Fuel Used

      • Different Heat Zones

      • Durability & Construction

      • Maintenance & Cleaning

      • Price

      • Size

    • American Range Combination Griddle with Salamander

    • FAQs in Relation to Gas Griddle

      • Are steaks better on a grill or a griddle?

      • What is the advantage of a gas griddle?

      • What are the pros and cons of a gas griddle?

      • What do you cook on a gas griddle?

    • Conclusion:

Understanding Gas Griddles

Gas griddles are a versatile piece of kitchen equipment characterised by a large, flat metal plate that's heated by gas. There's no direct flame contact with the food, which allows for even and consistent cooking, a key feature that's especially useful when preparing large quantities of food. 

The surface area of the griddle gives you ample space to comfortably cook different foods at the same time. Plus, the flat surface ensures perfect contact with the food, offering a thorough and uniform heat distribution, ideal for browning and searing. 

One of the significant benefits of a gas griddle is the control it offers over temperature. Whether you need to simmer, sauté, or sear, the griddle's heat control can precisely cater to a variety of griddle cooking needs. 

As for the types of dishes best suited for a gas griddle, think about items that benefit from a good sear or those that need to be flipped. This includes breakfast favourites like pancakes and bacon, lunchtime classics like grilled sandwiches, and dinner staples such as stir-fries and finely seared steaks. A gas griddle can truly handle it all, making it an invaluable asset in any commercial kitchen.

As for the types of dishes best suited for a gas griddle, think about items that benefit from a good sear or those that need to be flipped. This includes breakfast favourites like pancakes and bacon, lunchtime classics like grilled sandwiches, and dinner staples such as stir-fries and finely seared steaks. A gas griddle can truly handle it all, making it an invaluable asset in any commercial kitchen. 

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Unfolding Gas Grills

Gas grills are another heavy hitter in the culinary arena, renowned for their ability to impart that classic, smoky flavour we associate with traditional barbecues. Gas grills utilise direct heat, with the gas flame being the primary heat source. Unlike an outdoor griddle, there is a gap between the heating element and the food, which means the food can be cooked at extremely high temperatures.

The major advantage of gas grills is the distinctive char and flavour they can give to food. The high heat and open flame allow for delicious char marks, crispy textures, and an unmistakable smoky flavour. For establishments that value visual appeal and a flame-grilled taste, the gas grill is unmatched.

Gas grills also offer excellent heat control, just like griddles. They can quickly reach high temperatures and maintain consistent heat, crucial for cooking meats to perfection. Plus, because they often come with a lid, gas grills can effectively roast, bake, or smoke food – versatile features that boost their appeal.

As for the types of dishes that gas grills excel at, they are perfect for any dish where a smokey flavour and char marks are a plus. Juicy burgers, flame-kissed steaks, grilled vegetables, and BBQ chicken are all prime examples of foods that can be elevated to new heights with a gas grill. In short, if your menu is centred around authentic barbecue flavours and textures, a gas grill could prove to be your best friend in the kitchen.

Comparing Gas Griddles and Gas Grills

Now that we have delved into the individual strengths and unique features of both gas griddles and gas grills, it's time for a direct comparison. This section will offer a side-by-side analysis of these two kitchen powerhouses, helping you determine which one aligns best with your culinary goals and business needs.

Cooking Performance

Deciphering the nuances between gas griddles and gas grills can seem a bit overwhelming, but understanding their individual cooking performance is simpler than you might think. As previously mentioned, gas griddles are ideal for searing, frying, and browning food. With its flat surface and even heat distribution, the griddle makes it especially easy to achieve consistent cooking results. 

Gas grills excel at imparting that signature smoky flavour to foods thanks to their open flame and high temperatures. The char marks and texture that can be achieved with a good gas grill are unmatched. 

Versatility

When it comes to versatility, both the gas griddle and the gas grill offer plenty of cooking options. The griddle's large surface area gives you ample space to cook multiple dishes at once, while its even heat distribution ensures thorough and uniform cooking. With its open flame and adjustable temperature, the gas grill is excellent for searing steaks and other meats to perfection. It's also a great option for baking, roasting, and smoking food. 

Fuel Used

Both griddles and grills are powered by either natural gas or propane tank, with each fuel type having its own set of advantages. Natural gas is typically cheaper than propane gas, making it a more cost-effective option for businesses that need to save on their energy bills. On the other hand, portable propane gas packs more power per BTU, allowing you to cook food faster and more efficiently. 

Different Heat Zones

The ability to create distinct heat zones within these appliances plays another pivotal role in determining which one outperforms the other. Typically, most natural gas grills come equipped with multiple burners enabling you to prepare various food items simultaneously at different temperatures.

In contrast, some top-tier models, like those from American Range griddles, offer multi-zone heating options; these are usually less pronounced compared to those found in their grill counterparts.

Durability and Construction

When it comes to construction and durability, the stainless steel griddle is usually the winner. Its flat surface ensures that food juices are quickly removed during cleaning, helping to increase its lifespan. It also has fewer components than a gas grill, making maintenance much more straightforward and cost-effective. 

Gas grills may require more frequent cleaning due to their numerous components and tight crevices. Nevertheless, many gas grills are built with durability and longevity in mind since they often come with robust stainless steel construction and superior insulation technology. 

Maintenance and Cleaning

Gas griddles, unlike gas grills, are generally easier to maintain and clean. The flat, non-porous surface of the griddle minimises the buildup of fat and grease, making it effortless to clean. Plus, most modern griddles feature removable plates and a convenient grease cup for fast and easy cleaning.

Gas grills, on the other hand, require more extensive maintenance due to the open flame and direct contact with food. The hot temperature means that grease and fats accumulate quickly, requiring constant attention to ensure the grill remains in top condition. To make matters worse, most gas grills cannot be taken apart for easier cleaning or maintenance. 

Price

In terms of cost, gas griddles are generally more affordable than gas grills, providing a budget-friendly option for restaurants. This allows them to serve up high-quality food that not only impresses diners but also encourages them to return for more delightful dining experiences. With the convenience and efficiency of gas griddles, restaurants can effortlessly create a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes, elevating the overall dining experience for their patrons. 

Size 

The griddle size tends to be significantly larger than gas grills. This generous size advantage makes them the perfect choice for bustling kitchens that require the production of a high volume of food in a minimal amount of time. With their expansive cooking surface, gas griddles allow for efficient multitasking, enabling chefs to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously. 

On the other hand, gas grills offer a more compact design, making them a preferred option for smaller restaurants with limited space. The smaller size of gas grills provides greater flexibility in terms of placement and storage options, allowing for easier maneuverability in tight kitchen areas. 

American Range Combination Griddle with Salamander

If you're unsure about whether to choose a grill or a griddle for your establishment, consider a griddle combo in American Range Combination Griddle with Salamander. This kitchen equipment combines the best features of both gas griddles and gas grills, making it a powerful and versatile solution for any commercial kitchen. 

The Combination Griddle with Salamander features an upper gas grill and a lower cast iron griddle surface, designed for heavy-duty use. It offers ample cooking space without compromising on performance or value.

One of the standout features of this unit is the highly polished 19mm thick griddle plate placed over the salamander, providing a smooth and consistent heat source for cooking a variety of dishes. The radiant-style burner, with a heat deflector every 305mm, ensures even heat distribution across the entire cooking surface.

The American range combination griddle with salamander is constructed with a durable stainless steel exterior on the front and sides, making it easy to clean. Its compact design allows for countertop use, perfect for kitchens with limited space. However, an optional stand can be purchased for a freestanding setup if desired.

Maintenance is made simple with a removable full-width drip grease pan located under the salamander and a grease drawer for the griddle, ensuring easy cleaning. The combination griddle burner comes with a Piezo ignition for reliable and straightforward startup every time.

This combination griddle with salamander from American Range is a great choice for any commercial kitchen. Its combination of grill and griddle capability, alongside its value-for-money price tag, makes it an excellent option for those looking to save time and money while still delivering delicious food.  

FAQs in Relation to Gas Griddle

Are steaks better on a grill or a griddle?

Both methods have their merits. Grilling gives a robust, smoky flavour and beautiful sear marks from grill grates. However, a griddle offers more even heat distribution, preventing overcooking while still achieving an appealing crust.

What is the advantage of a gas griddle?

A portable griddle provides consistent heating across its flat surface, allowing for the simultaneous cooking of different foods without flavour crossover. It's ideal for breakfast items like pancakes and eggs but also excels with stir-fries and seafood.

What are the pros and cons of a gas griddle?

The advantages include versatile cooking options, easy temperature control, a large cooking area, and ease of cleaning. On the downside, it lacks the distinct char-grilled flavour that comes from traditional barbecuing on open flames.

What do you cook on a gas griddle?

Gas griddles are ideal for preparing breakfast items like pancakes, eggs, and bacon. They also work well with stir-fries, seafood, and other sautéed dishes. Griddles can even be used to cook pizzas in a fraction of the time compared to an oven. 

Conclusion: 

Gas griddles and gas grills each have their own unique strengths, making them excellent choices for different cooking styles. Choosing between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences. 

If you want to maximise cooking versatility, then the American Range Combination Griddle with Salamander is a great option. With its combination of grill and griddle features, it offers an all-in-one solution for any commercial kitchen that won't break the bank. 

Whether you seek expediency and affordability or a multifunctional appliance, our assortment of gas griddles and grills at Industry Kitchens caters to the needs of every commercial kitchen. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for further information!

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Discover and explore the differences between a Gas Griddle and a Gas Grill to find your perfect cooking companion in your hospitality business. Learn more!

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