Contact Grills vs. Other Grill Types: A Comparative Analysis. Commercial grills are essential equipment for any restaurant, café, or food service establishment. They come in various types, each with its unique features and benefits. One popular option is the contact grill, which offers a distinct cooking method compared to other types of grills. Let’s explore the key differences and advantages of these particular grills versus other common grill types.

Contact Grills: A Closer Look

Commercial contact grills feature two heated plates that press together, cooking food evenly from both sides. They are ideal for grilling items like burgers, sandwiches, panini, and hot dogs. Contact grills are known for their fast-cooking times, consistent results, and ability to create a distinctive grill mark on food. These grills feature versatile top and bottom plates that can be ribbed, smooth, or a combination of both, offering you the flexibility to cook a wide range of foods. Choose from single or double versions to cater to your specific cooking needs.

Key Advantages of Contact Grills:

Efficiency: Contact grills offer quick cooking times, making them suitable for busy establishments.

Even Cooking: The double-sided heating ensures consistent cooking and prevents undercooked or overcooked areas.

Versatility: They can cook a wide range of food items, from burgers to sandwiches.

Grill Marks: Contact grills produce the iconic grill marks that are visually appealing to customers.

Other Common Grill Types

To provide a comprehensive comparison, let’s examine some other popular commercial grill types:

Charbroilers use open flames or lava rock to cook food, resulting in a smokey flavour. They are excellent for grilling steaks, chicken, and seafood.

Flat-top Grills: These grills have a flat, heated surface that is ideal for cooking pancakes, eggs, and burgers. They are known for their versatility and easy cleaning.

Gas Grills: Gas grills use gas as a fuel source, providing a clean and efficient cooking method. They are suitable for grilling a variety of foods.

Electric Grills: Electric grills are a convenient option for smaller establishments or those without access to gas or charcoal. They offer precise temperature control and are easy to clean.

Choosing the Right Grill for Your Business

The best grill type for your business depends on several factors, including your menu, the volume of customers, and your budget. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Menu Items: Consider the types of food you will be cooking. For example, if you specialise in burgers and sandwiches, a contact grill might be the best choice.

Volume: If you have a high volume of customers, a grill with fast cooking times, like a contact grill or charbroiler, is essential.

Budget: Different grill types vary in price. Consider your budget and the features that are most important to you.

We offer a wide variety of contact grills, charbroilers, and more, and our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you in selecting the perfect model for your needs. Plus, we have a variety of graded and reconditioned units for budget-conscious options.

Main Image shows BLIZZARD BRRCG1 Single Ribbed Contact Panini Grill (both plates ribbed)