Explore Iwatani Portable Gas Grill ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 Review for BBQ Lovers

Description

Grilling Performance

Testing the Iwatani Portable Gas Grill BBQ Stove ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 has been a culinary adventure. This tabletop marvel delivers a surprisingly robust grilling performance for its compact size. The U-shaped burner produces a consistent flame, ensuring even cooking for skewers, veggies, or thin cuts of meat. Grilling yakitori or even experimenting with grilled dumplings was a breeze, as the heat distribution over the stainless-steel grill net was fairly uniform. I noticed, however, that the hottest zones are directly over the burner, while the center of the grill tends to lag slightly in heat intensity. This required some strategic repositioning of food but nothing too cumbersome. For a tabletop grill, it performs admirably—just be prepared for a bit of juggling if you’re cooking larger quantities.

Features

The Iwatani ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 is packed with thoughtful features that make it stand out in the portable grill category. Its corrosion-resistant steel frame ensures that the grill is durable and long-lasting. The included skewer stays are ideal for grilling kebabs, though I found that rotating the skewers evenly can be a bit tricky. The powder-coated finish adds a sleek touch, and the cassette gas system is incredibly convenient for quick setup. While using this grill, I appreciated the piezoelectric ignition system, which lit the burner reliably each time. It’s clear that the design prioritizes user-friendliness and functionality, making it a solid choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

Ease of Use

This grill is as easy to use as it gets. Setting up the cassette gas canister takes seconds, and the magnetic attachment system ensures a secure fit every time. The compact design means you can place it on any sturdy tabletop without worrying about space. I used it on my balcony, and it felt like having a miniature Japanese restaurant right at home. The controls are intuitive, with a simple knob for adjusting the heat intensity. That said, managing the smoke indoors can be a challenge unless you have excellent ventilation, so consider grilling near an open window or outdoors whenever possible.

Cleaning

After grilling, cleaning this product was a mixed bag. The stainless-steel grill net does a fantastic job of distributing heat, but it’s a nightmare to scrub clean after heavy use, especially when fat or sauces drip onto it. I tried soaking it in warm soapy water and using a variety of scrubbing tools, but some residue remained stubbornly stuck. The water tray beneath the grill, thankfully, was easier to clean, as it catches most of the grease and drippings. If you’re not a fan of scrubbing for an extended period, you might want to line the grill net with aluminum foil before use. Despite the grill’s challenges in this area, the overall cleaning process is manageable with a little extra effort.

Durability

I’ve used the Iwatani ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 multiple times, and it’s evident that this grill is built to last. The stainless-steel frame feels sturdy, and the powder-coated exterior has held up well against heat and minor scratches. The U-shaped burner, made from plated steel, shows no signs of wear even after extended high-heat cooking sessions. While the grill net is prone to discoloration from repeated use, it doesn’t affect its functionality. This grill inspires confidence in its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves grilling.

Portability & Storage

Portability is where this grill truly shines. Weighing just about 5.5 pounds and with compact dimensions, it’s easy to carry to picnics, tailgates, or camping trips. The slim profile also means it can be stored in even the smallest kitchen cabinets or pantry spaces. I took it along to a friend’s backyard party, and it was a hit—effortlessly fitting into the setup without taking up too much room. The only caveat is the grill net, which can be a bit awkward to pack due to its size and shape. Still, for a portable grill, it’s impressively convenient.

Warranty

The manufacturer’s details suggest solid confidence in their product, though specifics on the warranty weren’t immediately clear from the documentation. I’d recommend double-checking this detail with the seller if you’re considering a purchase. Having a warranty would certainly add peace of mind, especially for a product that involves gas and heat components.

Advantages

• Compact and lightweight, perfect for portability.
• Consistent heat from the U-shaped burner.
• Easy-to-use magnetic cassette gas system.
• Sturdy and corrosion-resistant construction.
• Sleek powder-coated finish enhances durability.

Areas for Improvement

• Grill net is difficult to clean thoroughly.
• Heat distribution favors areas directly over the burner.
• Produces significant smoke, especially indoors.
• Skewers can be hard to rotate evenly on the stays.

Product Comparisons

When compared to other portable tabletop grills, like the Coleman RoadTrip or the Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill, the Iwatani ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 carves out its niche in specialized cooking. It excels at delivering authentic Japanese-style grilling but falls short in versatility compared to models with larger cooking areas or additional burners. However, this grill’s compact size and cassette gas system make it far more portable than its bulkier competitors. The Weber, for instance, offers better heat distribution and less smoke but is significantly heavier to carry around. If you’re looking for a straightforward, culturally specific grilling experience, the Iwatani is hard to beat.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering its features, performance, and overall build quality, the Iwatani ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 offers excellent value for its price point. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but its durability and specialized design justify the investment. For anyone who enjoys Japanese grilling or needs a compact and efficient portable grill, this product proves to be a smart spending choice. However, if you’re a casual griller who values ease of cleaning and low smoke output above all else, you might want to explore alternative options.

Additional information