For commercial kitchens, a reliable gas char grill delivers consistent high-heat searing, fast cooking, and easy cleanup. This guide highlights five top options across countertop and larger models, ideal for crewmembers who prioritize output, durability, and maintenance ease. Best for high-volume kitchens, food trucks, buffets, and dine-in venues seeking better heat control and faster service.
Product summary table:
- Kratos 24″ Wide Commercial Gas Charbroiler — 70,000 BTU, 2 burners, stainless steel
- Empura 24″ Countertop Gas Radiant Charbroiler — 80,000 BTU, 4 burners, stainless
- WESTLAKE 24″ W Commercial Charbroiler — 60,000 BTU, 2 burners, versatile gas option
- WESTLAKE 16″ W Commercial Charbroiler — 30,000 BTU, single burner, compact
- Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner — 870 sq. in. cooking, gas + charcoal
Kratos 24″ Wide Commercial Gas Charbroiler
Best for high-output kitchens that need two independent burners. The Kratos unit is built from durable stainless steel and uses heavy-duty removable cast iron grates for robust searing. It includes a convenient removable drip tray for easier cleanup after busy service periods.
Who it’s best for: restaurants and caterers that require simultaneous multi-item grilling, with quick cleanup during peak hours. Why selected: strong build and dual-burner flexibility support busy menus with consistent heat zones.
Caution: ensure proper clearance and ventilation for countertop placement; heavy metal construction may require secure mounting on a sturdy surface.
EMPURA 24″ Countertop Gas Radiant Charbroiler
Best for kitchens needing precise manual heat control with strong total power. Four independently controlled burners provide 80,000 BTU, and heavy-duty cast iron grates offer heat retention and even distribution. Stainless steel construction supports demanding restaurant environments.
Who it’s best for: operators who favor fine heat management for a variety of meats and vegetables in a compact countertop footprint. Why selected: manual controls plus four independent zones enable flexible cooking strategies.
Caution: countertop depth and clearance must accommodate the 24″ by 32″ footprint; ensure adequate ventilation for four burners in a compact space.
WESTLAKE 24″W Commercial Charbroiler
Best for ETL-certified safety and sanitation in professional kitchens. This 60,000 BTU unit offers two burners with durable stainless steel construction. Note that the product ships with a natural gas valve by default; propane users should replace the valve via the provided accessory kit.
Who it’s best for: facilities requiring formal safety and sanitation credentials alongside solid grilling performance. Why selected: strong build, certification alignment, and flexible gas compatibility.
Caution: valve replacement is needed for propane use; verify gas type before installation.
WESTLAKE 16″W Commercial Charbroiler
Best for small kitchens needing a compact, single-burner option with heat distribution that supports consistent searing. This unit uses durable stainless steel and ETL safety and sanitation certifications, with the same default natural gas valve configuration noted for propane compatibility via kit.
Who it’s best for: cafes or compact kitchens that require reliable grilling in tight spaces. Why selected: small footprint without sacrificing essential heat and durability.
Caution: limited cooking area means lower throughput during peak service; plan for item batching if you run a busy menu.
Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Grill
Best for venues wanting dual fuel versatility in one unit. This model combines gas grilling with a charcoal option, offering 870 total square inches of cooking space and two stainless steel main burners for precise temperature zones.
Who it’s best for: operators who want the flavor advantages of charcoal with the convenience of gas for menu variety. Why selected: dual-fuel capability expands cooking methods and batch outcomes.
Caution: dual-function units can be heavier and require more space; ensure layout accommodates both fuel types and airflow needs.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Commercial Gas Char Grill
- Heat Output and Burners: Match BTU and burner count to your menu; higher BTU and multiple burners support faster searing and multi-zone cooking.
- Construction and Durability: Stainless steel builds resist corrosion and heat. Look for heavy-duty grates (cast iron preferred) for heat retention and longevity.
- Fuel Flexibility: Decide between natural gas, propane, or dual-fuel setups. Some units ship with a natural gas valve and require a kit for propane; ensure compatibility with your kitchen gas supply.
- Size and Footprint: Countertop models save space but limit throughput. Larger countertop or floor-standing units increase capacity; measure clearance, ventilation, and a stable mounting surface.
- Maintenance: Removable drip trays and easy-clean grates reduce downtime between shifts. Confirm accessibility for routine cleaning in high-volume kitchens.
- Safety and Compliance: ETL or equivalent certifications help ensure safety and sanitation compliance in commercial environments.
- Versatility: If you need both gas grilling and a charcoal option, consider dual-fuel models, but weigh maintenance complexity and heat control needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What BTU rating is best for a commercial char grill?
– Higher BTU generally enables quicker searing and higher output, especially in busy service periods; choose 60,000 BTU or more for most restaurants. - Is stainless steel necessary for commercial grills?
– It is highly durable and resistant to corrosion, making it a common standard for commercial kitchens. - Should I choose a countertop or a larger, freestanding unit?
– Countertop grills save space and are suitable for limited kitchens or mobile operations; larger units increase throughput for high-volume settings. - What maintenance should I plan for a charbroiler?
– Regularly clean grates and drip trays, inspect burners for uniform flame, and tighten any loose panels to maintain performance. - Can I use propane or natural gas interchangeably?
– Some models are dual-fuel or propane-ready, but others require specific gas types. Check the product notes and conversion kits before installation. - Are there safety considerations for stacking multiple grills in a kitchen?
– Ensure proper ventilation, heat clearance, and fire suppression readiness according to local codes and manufacturer recommendations.