Your Guide to Picking the Perfect Little Grill for Balconies and Patios
Grilling is one of America's favorite summer pastimes. According to a survey by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, a whopping 82% of US households own a grill or smoker. But what if you don't have a massive backyard? No problem! With the right compact grill, you can still enjoy delicious barbecue flavor even if you only have a tiny balcony or patio.
Whether you need a portable grill for tailgating or camping or want a permanent option for an apartment patio, we'll help you identify the right model for grilling in tight quarters.
Different Types of Small Grills
Before diving into specific products, let's overview the main categories of small grills to understand the key differences between each type.
Small Gas Grills
Gas grills are the simplest, most convenient option for tight spaces. They heat up quickly at the push of a button and offer precise temperature control through adjustable burners. Propane tanks make gas grills highly portable. They're easier to clean than charcoal models. Downsides are potential gas leaks and less smoky flavor.
Excellent small gas grills include the Weber Q1200 with 189 sq. inches of grilling space, the ultra-portable Cuisinart Petit Gourmet , and the high-power Coleman RoadTrip LXE .
Look for ample cooking area, sturdy construction, and extras like side tables or hooks.
Small Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills provide an authentic, smoky flavor perfect for burgers and dogs. They require more prep work but allow smoking and searing that gas can't achieve. Small charcoal grills like the Weber Smokey Joe are portable picnic and tailgating options.
Our top portable charcoal picks are the Weber Smokey Joe , Lodge Cast Iron Grill , and PK Grills Original PKGO . Focus on build quality and ventilation.
Other Options
Electric grills offer convenience without needing propane. However, they can't match the power and versatility of gas. Infrared grills heat up incredibly fast via radiation. Pellet grills allow flavorful smoking in a small package.
While less common for small spaces, these grilling varieties each have unique pros and cons to consider.
Key Considerations When Buying a Compact Grill
Keep these factors in mind when selecting the ideal little grill for your patio:
Size and Portability
Consider how much cooking space you need to grill burgers, chicken, or veggies for your typical gathering. A 150-200 square inch cooking surface can feed 1-2 people, while 300+ square inches offers more flexibility. Also evaluate the grill's mobility with foldable legs, wheels, handles, and transport locks.
Build Quality and Durability
Look for heavy-duty materials like stainless steel that resist weather and heat. Cast iron grates retain heat beautifully. Carefully inspect the grill's construction for weak points prone to breakage over time.
Ease of Use
Assess each model's ignition type, temperature controls, and cleanup requirements. Complicated setups or finicky burners quickly become a pain. prioritize intuitive operation and maintenance.
Extra Features
Handy additions like side tables, storage racks, lid locks, and tool hooks improve the grilling experience. Consider splurging on models with bonus accessories or capabilities.
Our Top Compact Grill Picks
After extensive research comparing small grill options, these models emerged as our top recommendations:
Best Overall - Weber Q1200
The Weber Q1200 gas grill tops our list for its ideal combination of quality, performance, and portability. At under 50 pounds with folding legs and tables, it's easy to transport. A 189 square inch cooking surface provides ample room for 8 burgers or two chickens. Durable cast iron grates beautifully sear meats. An electronic ignition lights the grill instantly, while infinite burner control knobs make adjusting the heat a cinch.
Most Portable - Weber Smokey Joe
For portable charcoal grilling, it doesn't get better than the classic Weber Smokey Joe . The 14-inch model weighs under 10 pounds, making it a breeze to tote to the park or beach. Its porcelain-enameled bowl and lid lock in heat and moisture. Vents control air flow. Assembly takes seconds, and the grill costs well under $100. You can't beat this tailgating all-star.
Best Infrared - Char-Broil Infrared 340
If you seek a small infrared grill, the Char-Broil Infrared 340 is our top choice. Infrared heat provides an astounding 50% faster preheating. A 345 square inch cooking area still leaves room to grill over a dozen burgers. The grill grates prevent flare-ups and the lid helps hold in smoke flavor. Backed by a 5-year warranty, this is one powerful little grill.
Most Affordable - Cuisinart Petit Gourmet
For shoppers on a tight budget, the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet gas grill proves you don't have to break the bank for quality. It may only offer 145 square inches of grilling space, but the foldaway legs, briefcase-style handle, and under 20 lb weight make this ultra-portable pick easy to take anywhere. With two dishwasher safe porcelain grilling grates and stainless steel burners, performance doesn't suffer despite the low cost.
Grilling Tips for Small Outdoor Spaces
Once you've selected the right small grill for your needs, keep these tips in mind:
- Use kabobs and skewers to maximize cooking capacity.
- Place a disposable foil pan underneath to catch drippings and simplify cleanup.
- Preheat the grill for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure even heating.
- Use a chimney starter and natural fire starters to avoid lighter fluid taste.
- Position the grill near, not directly against, railings or walls as a safety precaution.
The right tools and accessories also help grilling go smoothly in tight spaces. Opt for longer, grilling tongs and spatulas to easily flip foods further away. A tray table or cart placed nearby provides extra prep space. Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor doneness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size grill do I need for a small patio?
For patios and balconies, a grill with a 150-300 square inch cooking surface should provide sufficient room to cook for 1-4 people. Larger families may want at least 300 square inches.
How can I choose between gas and charcoal?
Gas grills provide convenience and easy temperature control, while charcoal grills imbue food with a delicious smoky flavor. Consider your grilling needs and preferences.
Are small grills worth buying?
Absolutely - today's small grills are very capable of cooking flavorful meals for intimate gatherings. With innovative designs focused on portability and performance, petite grills make outdoor cooking achievable anywhere.
What should I look for when buying a compact grill?
Prioritize quality materials, sufficient cooking area, easy transportability, precise temperature controls, and bonus features like side tables. High BTUs and well-ventilated lids are also important.
Just because your outdoor area is limited doesn't mean you can't enjoy juicy burgers, perfect dogs and crisp veggies from the grill. Compact grills designed specifically for patios and balconies allow you to take your cooking outdoors.
Keep this guide's tips in mind as you shop for the ideal petite grill for your next cookout. Models like the Weber Q1200 and Smokey Joe balance performance and portability. And don't forget essential accessories like grilling tools, thermometers, and prep tables tailored to cramped outdoor cooking.
The right combination of a space-saving grill and smart techniques makes backyard barbecuing achievable whether you have acres of land or a cozy apartment balcony. Get ready to ignite flavorful fun in small spaces!