5 Best Natural Gas Griddle Outdoor Models

Expanding your dining service to a patio or outdoor area requires building a kitchen that is just as reliable as your indoor line. This means moving beyond temporary solutions and installing permanent, professional-grade equipment. The cornerstone of any serious outdoor kitchen is a dependable cooking surface, and a natural gas griddle outdoor unit is built for exactly that purpose. Tapping into your building’s gas line provides an uninterrupted fuel source, ensuring you can handle high volume without ever worrying about running out of propane. It transforms your patio from a simple seating area into a fully functional, revenue-generating extension of your restaurant, ready for any rush.

Key Takeaways

• Think Beyond the Sticker Price: A natural gas griddle is an investment in operational reliability. The higher upfront cost is quickly offset by lower fuel expenses and the invaluable peace of mind that comes from never running out of fuel during a busy service.
• Prioritize Control, Not Just Size: While choosing the right size for your volume is important, the best griddles offer superior control through features like multiple, independent heat zones, durable cooking surfaces, and smart grease management systems that streamline your workflow.
• Protect Your Griddle from Day One: Ensure your equipment performs safely and lasts for years by starting with a professional, code-compliant installation. Follow that with a consistent maintenance routine of cleaning, seasoning, and protecting the griddle from the elements.

Why Go with a Natural Gas Outdoor Griddle?

Choosing the right fuel source for your outdoor griddle is a big decision for any restaurant. While propane offers portability, connecting directly to a natural gas line is a game-changer for permanent or semi-permanent kitchen setups. Think of it as an investment in consistency and peace of mind. A natural gas griddle eliminates the mid-rush panic of a sputtering flame and the logistical headache of swapping out heavy propane tanks.

This setup provides a steady, reliable fuel source that can handle the demands of a busy service without interruption. You get powerful, even heat that allows your chefs to focus on what they do best: creating amazing food. While the initial setup requires a professional, the long-term benefits in cost, convenience, and performance make it a smart move for any serious foodservice operation looking to streamline its outdoor cooking. It’s about building an efficient, dependable kitchen from the ground up.

Get Consistent Heat and Performance

Let’s clear up a common myth: natural gas griddles absolutely bring the heat. Many models can easily reach temperatures over 600°F, giving you all the power you need for a perfect, deep sear on steaks or a quick cook on vegetables. The idea that natural gas doesn't burn hot enough is simply not true for modern commercial equipment.

The real advantage here is consistency. Because you're tapped into a continuous fuel supply, you won't experience the pressure drops that can happen with a near-empty propane tank. This means your griddle maintains a steady temperature from the first order of the day to the last, ensuring every dish is cooked exactly the same way. That reliability is crucial when you have a line of tickets and quality can't be compromised.

Save Money in the Long Run

It’s true that the upfront cost of a natural gas griddle, including professional installation, can be higher than a propane model. But look at it as a long-term investment that pays off. Natural gas is a utility, and its cost per unit is significantly lower than propane. You’ll stop spending money on propane tank refills or exchanges, and those costs add up quickly in a commercial kitchen.

Over time, the fuel savings will more than cover the initial setup cost. Plus, you eliminate the labor and time spent managing propane inventory. If the initial investment is a concern, many suppliers offer restaurant equipment financing to make the purchase more manageable. This allows you to get the right equipment now and pay for it as it generates revenue.

Never Run Out of Fuel Again

Imagine this: it’s the middle of your busiest dinner service, the patio is packed, and your griddle suddenly dies. The propane tank is empty. This scenario is a restaurant owner's nightmare, leading to lost sales, unhappy customers, and a stressed-out kitchen staff. With a natural gas hookup, this problem is completely eliminated.

The convenience of a direct fuel line cannot be overstated. Your griddle is always ready to go, just like the other gas appliances in your kitchen. There are no tanks to monitor, no last-minute runs to the store, and no heavy cylinders to haul around. You gain operational efficiency and, more importantly, the peace of mind that comes from knowing your equipment will perform when you need it most.

Cook Cleaner and Safer

Safety should always be the top priority in a professional kitchen. A natural gas griddle, when installed correctly, is an incredibly safe option. The key is to have a licensed professional handle the installation to ensure your gas line and ventilation systems are fully up to code. This is not a DIY job; proper setup is essential for protecting your staff, your customers, and your business.

Natural gas also tends to burn cleaner than propane, producing fewer emissions. While the difference is minor, it contributes to a slightly better working environment for your chefs. By investing in professional installation, you’re implementing a non-negotiable safety plan that ensures your outdoor cooking station is reliable, efficient, and secure for daily use.

The Best Natural Gas Griddle Brands

When you start shopping for a natural gas griddle, you'll quickly see a few names pop up again and again. Certain brands have built a reputation for quality, performance, and durability, making them go-to choices for both professional chefs and serious home cooks. From versatile models that can handle any meal to premium griddles built for high-end outdoor kitchens, these are the brands that consistently deliver. Let's look at some of the top contenders and what makes each one stand out.

Our Top Picks at The Restaurant Warehouse

When we evaluate griddles, we look for smart design and reliable performance. A key feature we always recommend is dedicated control knobs for different temperature zones. This allows you to sear steaks on one side while gently warming vegetables on the other, giving you incredible versatility from a single cooking surface. We stock a wide range of restaurant equipment that meets these high standards, ensuring you get a durable and efficient griddle that can handle the demands of any kitchen. Performance and control are what separate a good griddle from a great one.

Blackstone Natural Gas Griddles

Blackstone is a huge name in the griddle world, and for good reason. One of their standout features is the flexibility they offer. Many Blackstone griddles are designed for propane but can be easily converted with a natural gas conversion kit. This is a fantastic option if you want to connect directly to your home's gas line but aren't ready to commit just yet. This adaptability, combined with their solid performance, makes Blackstone a popular and practical choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts who value having options.

Weber Genesis and Spirit Series

You probably know Weber for their iconic kettle grills, but their expertise extends to natural gas models, too. Weber has a well-earned reputation for building high-quality, long-lasting, and user-friendly grills. Their natural gas grills are known for their reliable ignition systems, even heat distribution, and durable construction. If you’re looking for a griddle from a brand with a proven track record of excellence and customer satisfaction, Weber is a name you can trust to deliver consistent results for years to come.

Camp Chef Flat Top Grills

Camp Chef designs its equipment for people who love cooking outdoors. Their flat-top grills are built with versatility and ease of use in mind, making them perfect for everything from backyard barbecues to campsite breakfasts. They offer a great balance of features and functionality without being overly complicated. If you want a straightforward, dependable griddle that lets you focus on the food, Camp Chef’s lineup is definitely worth exploring. They make outdoor cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Le Griddle Premium Models

If you're building a high-end outdoor kitchen and want a griddle to match, look no further than Le Griddle. This brand is known for its premium, French-made griddles that feature high-quality stainless steel construction and a patented dual-plate system for incredibly even heating. This superior design ensures you get consistent temperatures across the entire cooking surface, eliminating hot spots and delivering professional-grade results. For those who demand the best gas griddle performance, Le Griddle is a top-tier choice.

How to Choose the Right Size and Features

Once you’ve decided a natural gas griddle is right for your outdoor kitchen, the next step is to pick the perfect model. This comes down to two key things: size and features. The griddle that works for a small café patio won’t be the right fit for a high-volume catering business. Think about your menu, your average customer flow, and the space you have available. Choosing the right size ensures you can handle your busiest rushes without wasting energy or space. Beyond size, features like heat control, cooking surface material, and cleanup systems can make a huge difference in your day-to-day operations. Let’s break down what you need to look for.

Small Griddles (17-22"): For Patios and Small Groups

If you’re working with a cozy patio or a compact food truck, a small griddle is your best friend. These models are perfect for operations that need a dedicated griddle space but can’t sacrifice a lot of room. They let you expand your menu with classic outdoor-cooked foods like breakfast scrambles, pancakes, and burgers for smaller groups of customers. Because of their smaller size, they heat up quickly and are incredibly efficient for cooking to order. They’re an excellent starting point if you want to test out a griddle concept without committing to a massive piece of equipment.

Medium Griddles (28-36"): The All-Around Family Favorite

For most restaurants, food trucks, and caterers, the medium-sized griddle is the sweet spot. It’s the versatile workhorse of the griddle world, offering a great balance of cooking surface area and physical footprint. You’ll have enough space to manage a steady lunch or dinner rush, cooking multiple orders at once without feeling cramped. This size category also offers the widest selection of models from top brands, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. It’s large enough to be a primary cooking surface but won’t completely take over your outdoor kitchen line.

Large Griddles (42"+): Built for Commercial Kitchens

When you’re serving large crowds, you need a griddle that can keep up. Large griddles are built for high-volume commercial kitchens, event spaces, and busy catering operations. With this much cooking real estate, you can run an entire menu off the flat-top, searing steaks, grilling vegetables, and toasting buns all at the same time. These are serious pieces of restaurant equipment that often come with more burners and robust construction. Because they represent a significant investment, exploring restaurant equipment financing can be a smart way to get the capacity you need while managing your cash flow.

Check the BTU Output for Even Heat

BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is a measure of heat output, but a higher number doesn’t automatically mean a better griddle. What you really want is powerful, evenly distributed heat. The key is to look for a griddle with multiple, independently controlled burners. A great rule of thumb is to find a model with a dedicated control knob for every 12 inches of cooking space. This allows you to create different temperature zones on the same surface. You can sear burgers on a high-heat zone while gently warming tortillas on a low-heat zone, giving you incredible control over your cooking process.

Consider the Cooking Surface Material

The material of your griddle plate affects everything from heat retention to cleanup. Most commercial griddles are made from stainless steel because it’s durable, resists corrosion, and is relatively easy to maintain. For an even better-quality option, look for griddles made with high-grade 304 stainless steel, which offers superior rust resistance. Some premium models feature chrome tops, which provide a fantastic non-stick surface and are very easy to clean, though they often come at a higher price point and require non-metal utensils to avoid scratching the surface.

Look for Easy Grease Management and Wind Guards

A well-designed griddle makes your job easier and safer. An effective grease management system is non-negotiable. Look for models with a wide, deep trough or channel that funnels grease away from the cooking surface and into a large, removable collection tray. This not only prevents flare-ups but also makes cleanup much faster. For outdoor cooking, wind guards are another essential feature. These built-in shields protect the flames from gusts of wind, ensuring your burners stay lit and your cooking temperatures remain consistent, even on a breezy day.

How to Install Your Natural Gas Griddle

Getting your new natural gas griddle set up is an exciting step, but it’s one that requires careful attention to detail. Proper installation isn't just about getting your griddle to work—it's about ensuring the safety of your staff, your customers, and your kitchen. A little planning and professional help here will pay off every time you fire it up. Let’s walk through the key steps to get your griddle installed correctly and safely from day one.

Know Your Gas Line Requirements

Before you do anything else, you need to make sure your existing gas line is up to the task. Every griddle has specific requirements for gas pressure and volume, which you can find in the manufacturer's manual. Check that your gas line can handle the BTU output of your new griddle. If the line is too small or the pressure is too low, your griddle won't heat properly, leading to inconsistent cooking. Confirming compatibility first will save you from major headaches later. It’s a crucial step for any piece of gas-powered restaurant equipment you bring into your kitchen.

Should You Hire a Pro or DIY?

While it might be tempting to handle the installation yourself to save a few dollars, this is one area where you should absolutely call in a professional. A licensed gas fitter or plumber will ensure the connection is secure, leak-free, and compliant with all local safety codes. This isn't just a suggestion; it's a critical safety measure that protects your investment and your business from the serious risks of gas leaks or fires. Think of it as part of the startup cost. If you're managing your budget, exploring restaurant equipment financing can help cover these essential upfront expenses.

Follow Safety and Code Regulations

Safety and compliance go hand in hand. Your local municipality has specific codes for installing commercial cooking equipment, and they are not optional. These regulations cover everything from the type of connectors you can use to the clearance required around the unit. A huge part of this is ventilation. Your griddle must have a proper ventilation system to safely remove grease, smoke, and carbon monoxide. A professional installer will be well-versed in these local requirements and will make sure your setup is completely up to code, passing any inspections with ease.

Avoid Common Installation Mistakes

A few common errors can derail a griddle installation. The most frequent and dangerous is an improper gas line connection, which can lead to leaks. Always have a professional double-check the fittings and test for leaks before the first use. Another major issue is inadequate ventilation. Placing your griddle in an area without sufficient airflow is a serious hazard that can cause a buildup of dangerous gases. Taking the time to get these details right ensures your griddle performs efficiently and safely for years to come, letting you focus on cooking great food.

What's the Real Cost of a Natural Gas Griddle?

When you're looking at a new natural gas griddle, it’s easy to focus on the price tag. But the sticker price is just one piece of the puzzle. To understand the true cost of ownership, you need to look at the complete financial picture, from the day it arrives in your kitchen to its long-term operating and maintenance expenses. A natural gas griddle is a long-term investment in your kitchen's efficiency and output, so thinking through these different costs will help you make a smart decision that benefits your bottom line for years to come.

Let's break down what you can expect to spend upfront, how much you'll save on fuel compared to propane, and what you should budget for routine upkeep. This will give you a clear idea of the total investment and help you see why a natural gas model is often the most cost-effective choice for a commercial kitchen.

Breaking Down the Upfront Cost

It’s true that a natural gas griddle often has a higher initial cost than its propane counterpart. This isn't just for the unit itself; you also have to account for professional installation to safely connect it to your building's gas line. Think of this as a one-time investment for a permanent, reliable fuel source. While this initial outlay might seem like a hurdle, flexible restaurant equipment financing options can make it much more manageable. By spreading the cost over time, you can get the equipment you need now without straining your cash flow, allowing you to reap the long-term benefits sooner.

How Operating Costs Compare to Propane

Here’s where a natural gas griddle really starts to pay you back. Natural gas is generally less expensive than propane, so your monthly utility bills will be lower. But the biggest win is convenience. You’ll never have to worry about a propane tank running empty in the middle of a dinner rush again. There are no tanks to swap, no refills to schedule, and no emergency runs to the store. This direct, uninterrupted fuel supply saves you time, labor, and the stress of potential service disruptions. That reliability is invaluable in a fast-paced kitchen environment where every minute counts.

Factor in Maintenance and Parts

Like any workhorse in your kitchen, your natural gas griddle needs regular care to perform its best. Consistent maintenance not only extends the life of your equipment but also ensures food quality and safety. This includes routine tasks like cleaning the burners to prevent clogs, keeping the griddle surface properly seasoned to avoid sticking, and calibrating the thermostat for accurate temperatures. While these tasks are straightforward, they are crucial for avoiding costly repairs down the road. Over time, you may need to replace parts, but investing in quality restaurant equipment from the start will minimize these instances and keep your griddle firing on all cylinders.

Natural Gas vs. Propane: Which is Better?

Choosing between natural gas and propane is a major decision when you're outfitting an outdoor kitchen. Both fuels have their loyal fans, and the right choice often comes down to your specific needs for performance, convenience, and budget. While propane offers portability, natural gas brings a unique set of advantages that are especially valuable in a commercial setting. Let's break down how these two fuel sources stack up against each other so you can decide which is the best fit for your operation.

Heat and Performance: A Head-to-Head

There's a common myth that natural gas doesn't burn as hot as propane, but that's simply not the case with modern equipment. High-quality natural gas griddles are engineered to reach impressive temperatures, often exceeding 600°F. This means you can get that perfect, deep sear on steaks and burgers without any trouble. For a busy kitchen, consistent and powerful heat is non-negotiable. Just like you rely on your deep fryers to maintain temperature during a rush, a natural gas griddle provides the reliable, high-performance cooking surface you need for consistent results, service after service.

Which Fuel Source is More Convenient?

When it comes to convenience, natural gas is the clear winner. Because it’s connected directly to your property's utility line, you have an endless supply of fuel. You’ll never have to worry about a tank running empty in the middle of a dinner service, which is a game-changer for any professional kitchen. This eliminates the hassle of swapping out heavy propane tanks, storing backups, and making last-minute runs to get them refilled. A direct gas line simplifies your daily operations, letting your team focus on cooking instead of fuel management. It’s one less thing to worry about when you’re managing all your restaurant equipment.

The Long-Term Cost Winner

While the initial setup for a natural gas griddle can be more expensive due to professional installation costs for the gas line, it’s an investment that pays off over time. Natural gas is typically much cheaper as a utility than buying or refilling propane tanks. For a restaurant that uses its outdoor griddle frequently, these savings add up quickly, leading to a lower total cost of ownership. If the upfront cost is a concern, exploring Restaurant Equipment Financing can make it easier to get the equipment you need now and reap the long-term savings sooner.

How to Maintain Your Natural Gas Griddle

Your natural gas griddle is a workhorse in your commercial kitchen or outdoor dining space. Just like any other piece of essential restaurant equipment, it needs regular care to perform at its best and last for years. Consistent maintenance prevents costly repairs, ensures food safety, and guarantees that every dish you cook comes off the griddle perfectly. A little bit of attention goes a long way in protecting your investment. By creating a simple routine, you can keep your griddle in top shape, ready for the busiest service.

Clean and Season Your Griddle Top

A well-maintained griddle top is the secret to great performance. Regular cleaning and seasoning are essential for preventing rust and creating a natural, non-stick surface that makes cooking a breeze. After each use, scrape away any food debris and wipe the surface clean. It’s important to check the seasoning regularly; a good seasoning is a thin, slick, dark layer. If you see any dull or flaky spots, it’s time to re-season. This involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil and heating the griddle until it smokes slightly. This process polymerizes the oil, bonding it to the metal and protecting the surface.

Maintain Your Burners and Grease Trap

Consistent heat is everything, and that starts with clean burners. Blocked burner ports can lead to uneven heating and cold spots on your griddle surface, which means inconsistent cooking. Periodically, check the burners to ensure the flames are blue and steady. If you see yellow, flickering flames or notice a burner isn’t lighting, it’s likely clogged and needs to be cleaned out. Equally important is the grease trap. A full grease trap is a serious fire hazard. Make it a non-negotiable part of your closing routine to empty and clean it. This simple step is just as crucial as maintaining your deep fryers to keep your kitchen safe and efficient.

Protect Your Griddle from the Elements

If your natural gas griddle is outdoors, protecting it from the weather is a top priority. Rain, humidity, and direct sun can cause rust and damage to its components over time. The easiest way to protect your investment is with a high-quality, weather-resistant cover. Make sure the cover fits snugly and is made from a durable material that won’t tear. When you know the griddle won’t be used for an extended period, like during the off-season, consider moving it to a covered storage area if possible. Taking these proactive steps will significantly extend the life of your griddle and keep it looking and working like new.

Where to Find Reliable Reviews

Once you have an idea of the size and features you need, it’s time to dig into the reviews. But with so many opinions online, it can be tough to know who to trust. A single bad review might be a one-off issue, while a flood of five-star ratings could be sponsored. The key is to look at a mix of sources to get a complete picture of a griddle’s performance and reliability. By combining professional analysis, manufacturer details, and real-world customer feedback, you can feel confident you’re making the right choice for your kitchen.

Check Professional Review Sites

Start your search with websites that specialize in commercial kitchen equipment. These platforms often conduct in-depth testing and side-by-side comparisons that you won’t find in a typical customer review. They break down everything from heat distribution to ease of cleaning, giving you a solid, unbiased foundation for your decision. Think of these sites as your expert consultants. They’ve done the heavy lifting to evaluate different models, so you can see how various griddles stack up against each other. This helps you quickly narrow down your options to a few top contenders that fit your specific needs.

Compare Manufacturer Specs

After getting a general overview from review sites, go straight to the source. A manufacturer’s website is the best place to find detailed specifications on their restaurant equipment. Here, you’ll find the nitty-gritty details about BTU output, construction materials, and unique features that might not be covered in a general review. For example, a manufacturer like Vulcan Equipment provides comprehensive information on their griddles, helping you understand exactly what each model is designed to do. This step is crucial for confirming that a griddle has the power and durability your kitchen demands.

Find the Best Deals and Financing Options

Finding a high-quality griddle is only half the battle; you also need one that fits your budget. Once you’ve picked a model, shop around at different suppliers to compare prices. At The Restaurant Warehouse, we focus on providing top-notch equipment without the premium price tag. We also understand that a new griddle is a significant investment, which is why we offer flexible restaurant equipment financing to help you get what you need now. Exploring these options can make a huge difference, allowing you to invest in a reliable griddle that will serve your business for years to come.

Related Articles

• From Shawarma to Panini: Finding Your Perfect Commercial Griller
• Atosa USA ATMG-36 Heavy Duty 36-Inch Manual Griddle - Natural Gas

Frequently Asked Questions

I've heard natural gas doesn't get as hot as propane. Can it really handle a busy restaurant service? That's a common myth, but modern commercial griddles are built for power. Many natural gas models easily reach temperatures over 600°F, giving you all the heat you need for a perfect sear. The real advantage isn't just heat, but consistency. Since you're connected to a direct fuel line, you won't experience the pressure drops that happen with a propane tank, ensuring your griddle maintains a steady, reliable temperature from the first order to the last.

The initial cost for a natural gas griddle and installation seems high. How do I know if it's the right financial move? It's true that the upfront cost is higher, but it's best to view it as a long-term investment that pays for itself. Natural gas is significantly cheaper as a utility than propane, so your operating costs will be lower from day one. You also eliminate the recurring expense and labor involved in buying, swapping, and storing propane tanks. For a busy kitchen, these savings in both money and time add up quickly, making it a smarter financial decision in the long run.

Can I just install the natural gas griddle myself to save some money? This is one area where you should never cut corners. Installing a natural gas appliance is a job strictly for a licensed professional. An improper connection can lead to dangerous gas leaks, creating a serious fire hazard that puts your staff, customers, and entire business at risk. Hiring a professional ensures the installation is secure, leak-free, and compliant with all local safety codes, giving you complete peace of mind.

With so many options, what's the single most important feature I should look for? If I had to pick one thing, it would be control. Look for a griddle with multiple, independently controlled burners that create different heat zones. This feature is a game-changer for efficiency. It allows you to sear steaks on high heat on one side of the griddle while gently toasting buns or warming vegetables on low heat on the other. This level of control gives you incredible versatility and is what separates a good griddle from a great one.

How much daily maintenance does a natural gas griddle actually require? The routine upkeep is very manageable and should just become part of your kitchen's daily closing process. The essentials are scraping the surface clean after service, making sure the seasoning on the cooktop remains intact, and emptying the grease trap. Keeping the burners clear of debris is also important for even heating. These simple, consistent habits will prevent major issues, extend the life of your griddle, and ensure it's always ready for service.