Should You Buy the Blackstone 36 Inch Griddle Review for Outdoor Cooking?

Description

Grilling Performance

The Blackstone 2322 Original Omnivore 36-Inch Griddle with Hood really shines when it comes to grilling performance. I’ve tested it with everything from pancakes and eggs for breakfast to steaks and grilled veggies for dinner. The four independent heat zones are a total game-changer. I could sear a steak perfectly on one side while gently cooking delicate vegetables on another. This level of control isn’t something you find on every grill. The surface heats up quickly and provides consistent heat distribution, which means no annoying cold spots ruining your cooking experience.

One weekend, I hosted a backyard barbecue and cooked up a storm for a group of friends. Burgers, hot dogs, and kabobs all turned out amazing. I was able to keep everything perfectly cooked and even managed to keep food warm on one corner of the griddle while finishing up other dishes.

Ease of Use

Using this griddle feels intuitive, even for someone like my brother who isn’t exactly a pro in the kitchen. The controls are straightforward, and the knobs for the burners turn smoothly, allowing precise adjustments. The side shelves are a lifesaver, providing extra space for prepping ingredients or holding utensils. One of the shelves extends, which I found particularly handy when cooking in a cramped patio area.

The included Blackstone squeeze bottles and reusable gloves also deserve a shoutout. The bottles make applying oil or sauces super easy, and the gloves provide excellent heat protection while handling hot surfaces.

Cleaning

Cleaning is often the dreaded part of grilling, but this griddle makes it a breeze. The griddle seasoning/conditioner included in the kit helps maintain the surface and makes cleanup less of a hassle. After cooking, I let the surface cool down a bit, then used a scraper to remove stuck-on bits. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and reapplication of the seasoning, and it’s ready for the next use.

One time, I made a messy stir-fry with sticky teriyaki sauce, and I was surprised at how easily it cleaned up. Compared to other grills I’ve used, which often have hard-to-reach corners, this one feels like a significant upgrade.

Durability

This griddle is built like a tank. The stainless steel construction and the X-braced hood give it a sturdy feel. After weeks of regular use, there’s no warping or signs of wear on the cooking surface. Even the knobs and side shelves feel robust.

My cousin accidentally dropped one of the shelves while folding it down, and it didn’t even leave a dent. That’s the kind of resilience you want in something that’s going to live outdoors.

Advantages

• Four independent burners provide excellent heat control.
• Durable and robust stainless steel construction.
• Generous cooking surface, perfect for large gatherings.
• Easy-to-clean design with included conditioning tools.

Warranty

The manufacturer provides a warranty, which gives peace of mind when investing in a product like this. While I haven’t had to use it, knowing it’s there adds a layer of trust in the product’s quality. One of my coworkers had a similar model and mentioned that Blackstone’s customer service is responsive, which is always a good sign.

Portability & Storage

Despite its size, this griddle is surprisingly easy to store. The folding side shelves make it more compact, and the free-standing design means you can wheel it into a corner when it’s not in use. I’ve moved it around my patio without much trouble, thanks to the sturdy wheels.

That said, I wouldn’t call it “portable” in the traditional sense. It’s not something you’d take on a camping trip unless you’ve got a truck to haul it.

Temperature Control

The temperature control on this griddle is one of its standout features. Each burner has its own knob, allowing you to set different zones to different temperatures. I’ve used one burner on low to keep pancakes warm while cranking up another burner for a quick hash brown sear.

I did notice that the knobs get a little warm during extended cooking sessions, but not enough to be a major issue.

Key Benefits

• Independent heat zones for maximum cooking flexibility.
• Convenient side shelves for prep and storage.
• Includes extra accessories like seasoning and gloves.

Disadvantages

• Not as portable as smaller grills, despite being labeled “portable.”
• Knobs can get warm during extended use.

Other Options

Looking at competing brands like Weber and Camp Chef, this griddle holds its ground well. Weber grills are known for their even heat distribution, but they usually don’t offer the same level of surface area or four-burner customization. Camp Chef models come close in terms of cooking flexibility but often lack the durability and extra features like the side shelf rail system.

If you’re someone who values a large cooking surface and the ability to handle multiple dishes simultaneously, this Blackstone model outperforms many of its peers. However, if portability is your top priority, you might want to explore smaller models from brands like Coleman.

Value for Money

This griddle offers excellent bang for the buck. Considering its size, durability, and range of features, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the quality and performance make it worth every penny.

Compared to some pricier models, this one delivers comparable—if not better—results, making it a favorite in my outdoor kitchen setup. If you want a reliable, versatile griddle that can handle everything from breakfast to dinner, this one is a strong contender.

Additional information