Should You Buy the Blackstone 36 Inch Griddle? Detailed Review Inside

Description

Features

The Blackstone 2322 Original Omnivore 36 Inch Griddle with Hood is a beast when it comes to outdoor cooking. I’ve been experimenting with this propane-powered flat top grill for several weeks, and its 36-inch cooking surface is a dream for anyone who loves hosting backyard feasts. The griddle features an omnivore-style cooking plate that heats up quickly and evenly, making it perfect for whipping up pancakes, searing steaks, or grilling veggies. One of my favorite aspects is the X-braced hood. Not only does it enhance durability, but it also adds an extra layer of protection to the griddle surface when not in use.

The dual folding side shelves are another highlight. These adjustable shelves are life-savers when you’re juggling multiple dishes, offering extra prep space for utensils and ingredients. They’re also foldable, which makes storage a breeze. The rail system on these shelves takes customization to another level—you can attach accessory baskets for squeeze bottles, tools, or seasonings.

And let’s not overlook the starter kit that comes bundled with it. With two spatulas, a scraper, a pair of tongs, a basting brush, and even reusable gloves, you’re practically set up for success straight out of the box. The griddle also includes seasoning and conditioning oils, making it easier to maintain.

Ease of Use

As someone who’s always on the go, ease of use is a big deal for me, and this griddle doesn’t disappoint. Setting it up was surprisingly simple, even though it took me a little over an hour to put everything together. The instructions were clear, which is something I can’t say for every grill I’ve used.

Once assembled, operating the Blackstone 36-inch griddle felt intuitive. The four burners are controlled individually, which means you can fine-tune the heat depending on what you’re cooking. I managed to prepare breakfast for my family—pancakes, eggs, and bacon—without breaking a sweat. The propane ignition system worked seamlessly every time, which was a relief because I’ve had bad experiences with unreliable ignitions on other grills.

Temperature Control

The four heat zones are one of the strongest features of this propane gas griddle. I tested the burners by cooking different items simultaneously—steaks on one side and veggies on the other. The ability to regulate each burner individually ensured everything was cooked to perfection.

I also noticed that the omnivore griddle plate heats up faster than traditional options I’ve tried in the past. This is a game-changer when you’re hosting a BBQ and need to keep things moving quickly. That said, it requires some practice to master the art of maintaining the right temperature across the large cooking surface.

Cleaning

Cleaning this griddle is a mixed bag. While the flat top surface makes scraping off grease and food debris straightforward, the included scour pads weren’t the best. They fell apart after a couple of uses, which was disappointing. I ended up switching to a sturdier alternative after day three.

The grease management system works well, collecting drippings in a removable tray located at the back. However, I did find it a bit tricky to remove the tray without spilling if it was full. If you’re not careful, cleanup can get messy.

Grilling Performance

This griddle’s grilling performance is stellar, to say the least. I’ve grilled burgers, chicken, and even tried stir-frying some veggies, and every meal turned out perfectly. The even heat distribution ensures there are no cold spots, which is something I’ve struggled with on other grills.

I even tried the basting cover included in the accessory kit for melting cheese over burgers. It worked like a charm, trapping the heat and melting the cheese to gooey perfection. However, if you’re someone who loves grill marks, this flat top style might not be your first choice.

Positives

• The omnivore griddle plate heats up quickly and evenly.
• Dual folding side shelves offer extra prep space and storage convenience.
• Four heat zones provide excellent temperature control.
• Comes with a comprehensive starter kit of accessories.

Areas of Concern

• The included scour pads are flimsy and not durable.
• Removing the grease tray can be messy if overfilled.
• Flat top griddles don’t produce traditional grill marks, which might be a drawback for some.

Durability

The Blackstone 36-inch griddle feels robust and well-built. The stainless steel frame and X-braced hood inspire confidence that this grill will last for years. Even after weeks of heavy use, the cooking surface didn’t show any signs of wear or warping.

However, I’d recommend investing in a weather-resistant cover if you plan to leave it outdoors. While the materials are durable, prolonged exposure to the elements could shorten its lifespan.

Portability & Storage

At 145 pounds, this isn’t the most portable griddle on the market, but the foldable side shelves and easy-to-move wheels make up for it. I managed to roll it from my garage to the backyard without breaking a sweat, even on uneven terrain. The compact design when folded means it doesn’t take up too much storage space, which is a blessing for someone with a packed garage like mine.

Warranty

The included warranty provides peace of mind, covering defects and issues for a reasonable period. I haven’t had to use it yet, but it’s good to know that Blackstone stands behind their product. As always, make sure to read the fine print to know what’s included.

Competing Products

When comparing this griddle to similar offerings from brands like Camp Chef and Weber, a few things stand out. The Blackstone griddle offers a more extensive cooking surface than most Camp Chef models in its price range. While Weber’s grills might excel in traditional grilling with grates, they lack the versatility of a flat top griddle.

That said, Camp Chef griddles often have a better grease management system, which might appeal to those prioritizing easy cleanup. Weber’s models are also generally lighter and easier to move around, but they don’t provide the same cooking space or multi-zone heating options.

Bang for the Buck

For its price range, this griddle offers excellent value for money. The large cooking area, durable construction, and included accessories make it a worthwhile investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. While it does have its quirks—like the subpar scour pads—the overall performance justifies the cost. If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable cooking station for your backyard, this griddle is hard to beat.

Additional information