What’s inside this buyer’s guide

 

1. Introduction
2. Fuel/Power type
3. Types of griddles
4. Plate style/surface
5. Control styles
6. Griddle size
7. Best makes of commercial griddles
8. Used commercial griddles – worth considering?
9. Commercial griddles frequently asked questions
10. Commercial griddle glossary 
11. Save your cash, use ours!

 

 

The commercial griddle: it's so much more than just an ordinary cooking surface.

It's a culinary playground, adaptable and versatile, inviting you to delight your customers with the most succulent delicacies.

From melt-in-your-mouth fluffy pancakes to sizzling burgers that make the taste buds dance, and grilled cheese that oozes with cheesy goodness!

Our comprehensive buyer's guide delves into griddle types, essential features, and showcases top-notch makes and models, empowering you to make an informed choice for your business needs.

 

 

Fuel/Power type

When considering commercial griddles, you have the choice between two primary fuel and power options, each with its unique advantages and factors to consider.

Understanding these two options is crucial for selecting the ideal griddle that aligns with your business needs, maximises energy efficiency, and controls operational costs.

Refer to the table below for a comprehensive breakdown of the key factors associated with each power type:

 

Key feature	Commercial gas griddle	Commercial electric griddle
Design and function	Features burners located beneath the griddle plate, which, when lit, heat the cooking surface.	Features electric heating elements beneath the griddle plate, which heat the surface when electricity passes through.
Heat distribution	Heat can vary across the cooking surface. It often has more intense heat zones.	Heat is typically distributed evenly across the cooking surface.
Temperature control	Provides more tactile control over heat levels. Flame can be visually inspected to judge heat levels.	Precise temperature control via thermostat. Users can set exact degrees for consistent results.
Warm-up time	Generally heats up faster, beneficial for busy service periods.	May take a longer time to reach desired temperature.
Energy efficiency	Despite heating up quickly, it may not be as energy efficient due to energy loss via exhaust gases produced during combustion.	Despite having a slow heat-up and recovery time, it is generally more energy efficient, converting almost all electrical energy into heat with minimal loss.
Installation	Requires a gas line connection. Professional installation recommended.	Requires an electrical outlet.

 

 

Types of commercial griddles

Now that we've got a handle on the power types, let's explore the different types of commercial griddles.

From the compact and versatile Countertop Griddles, to the seamless integration of Drop-In Griddles, and the vibrant sizzle of , each type offers its own distinctive features and culinary possibilities.

 

Countertop griddle 

Countertop griddles, also referred to as freestanding griddles, offer a versatile solution for kitchens with limited space or a need for flexibility in layout.

They are designed to sit on top of a counter or stand, making installation straightforward and allowing for easy cleaning and rearrangement.

With their convenient portability and hassle-free setup, countertop griddles provide an efficient and adaptable cooking option for various kitchen setups.

 

Application and use

With their small footprint, countertop griddles are ideal for tight spaces like food trucks, small restaurants, and catering businesses.

You can whip up anything from bacon and eggs for brekkie to burgers and grilled sandwiches for lunch.

If you need to swiftly serve a variety of seared and sizzling dishes, this is your best bet.

 

Drop-In Griddles

Drop-in griddles, sometimes referred to as built-in griddles, are meticulously designed to be installed into a pre-cut space in a kitchen counter or custom cooking suite.

This integration provides a sleek, seamless look that's often preferred for aesthetic reasons or for creating a more efficient workflow.

They're usually more permanent fixtures and can't be moved as easily. Installation can be more complex and may require professional help.

However, they have the advantage of freeing up countertop space around the edges of the griddle.

 

Application and use

Offering a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, these griddles are common in premium kitchens, upscale restaurants, or any setup where appearance is as important as performance.

Despite their sophisticated design, they are robust enough to cater to a diverse menu, be it a pile of juicy steaks or a batch of grilled veggies.

If you're creating a kitchen that's as visually pleasing as it is efficient, a drop-in griddle will elevate your setup.

 

Teppanyaki Griddles

Teppanyaki griddles are flat-top grills with a heating element underneath the cooktop, designed specifically for the Japanese cooking style known as Teppanyaki.

 

Application and use

Teppanyaki griddles serve not just as cooking equipment, but also as a centre stage for culinary performances, thus they're often found in open-kitchen setups where guests can enjoy the spectacle of their food being prepared.

From swiftly searing thin slices of beef to tossing vegetables in the air, these griddles are about creating an interactive dining experience.

If your venue focuses on delivering not just mouth-watering food but also an unforgettable experience, Teppanyaki griddles are your ticket to the show.

 

 

Plate style/surface

Think of the plate style of a commercial griddle as a blueprint – laying the foundation for successful cooking and standout results.

When choosing the perfect plate style, it's all about the details: what's the material made of and how thick is it?

Let's take a closer look at these important factors.

 

Plate material

For a comprehensive understanding of the common plate materials used in commercial griddles, check out the table below.

 

Plate Material	Key Features	Benefits	Common Uses
Steel	Durable   Excellent heat conductor   Radiates more heat due to its high thermal emissivity	Offers a consistent and uniform cooking surface   Stands up to constant usage, resists warping and denting   Provides robust performance despite requiring more cleaning effort	Ideal for high-volume, high-heat cooking operations such as grilling, searing and achieving caramelisation on various foods.
Chrome	Easy-release surface   Energy-efficient   Superior heat retention due to its highly reflective nature and low thermal emissivity	Requires fewer BTUs to operate   Quicker heat-up and recovery times   Easy to clean   Reduces radiant heat, leading to a cooler kitchen environment	Perfect for delicate items like eggs and pancakes

 

 

Thickness

Griddle plate thickness is a crucial consideration in commercial kitchens, directly impacting cooking performance.

Thin plates excel at swiftly transferring heat, making them ideal for breakfast items like pancakes.

Thick plates, on the other hand, store and distribute heat effectively, ensuring efficient cooking of larger lunchtime portions like hamburger patties.

For establishments with high breakfast and lunch volumes, separate griddles can optimise workflow and ensure consistent results.

Here's a table summarising the duty levels and corresponding plate thicknesses for commercial griddles:

 

Duty Level	Plate Thickness
Standard	1/2"
Medium	3/4"
Heavy	1"

 

Do bare in mind, these thicknesses serve as a general guideline and might differ across manufacturers.

Specialised griddles, such as Teppanyaki models, may have unique performance traits, despite identical plate thickness, due to heating element arrangement and designated usage.

 

 

Control styles

When it comes to controlling the heat on commercial griddles, there are two primary styles to consider: thermostatic and manual.

In the section below, we will explore these control styles in detail, highlighting their features and benefits.

 

Thermostatic

Thermostatic control in a griddle refers to the use of a thermostat to regulate the griddle's temperature.

This mechanism ensures that the heat is maintained at a consistent level, making it easier for the chef to manage the cooking process.

Features and benefits

Precision temperature setting

These griddles allow chefs to set exact temperatures, which is important for dishes that require precise heat.
 
Consistent heat distribution

The thermostat works to maintain uniform heat across the griddle surface, reducing the risk of hot spots.
 
Auto-adjustment

Thermostatic controls can automatically adjust the griddle's heat output to maintain the set temperature, even when the cooking load varies.

Cooking accuracy

Precise temperature control helps chefs ensure the consistency of dishes, which is especially important in commercial kitchens where consistent quality is key.
 
Energy efficiency

Since thermostatic controls only supply the amount of heat needed to maintain the desired temperature, they can help reduce energy consumption.
 
Versatility

The ability to set exact temperatures makes thermostatic griddles ideal for a wide range of foods, from delicate items that require lower temperatures, like eggs and seafood, to items that require high heat, like steaks.

 

Manual

Manual control in a griddle refers to the use of a knob or dial to adjust the heat output of the burner or heating element.

Unlike thermostatic controls, manual controls do not regulate the exact temperature but rather the intensity of the heat source.

Features and benefits

Simplicity

Manual controls are straightforward and intuitive to use, with no need for complex settings or adjustments.
 
Quick heat adjustment

They allow for immediate changes in heat levels, providing a quicker response to the chef's needs.
 
Zonal cooking

Manual griddles often enable zonal cooking, where different areas of the griddle can be set to different heat levels.
 
Control

Some chefs prefer the hands-on approach offered by manual controls, allowing them to adjust heat levels based on their intuition and experience.
 
Durability

Manual controls tend to be more robust and less prone to failure as they have fewer complex components.
 
Cost-effective

Generally, griddles with manual controls are less expensive than those with thermostatic controls, both in terms of initial cost and maintenance.

 

 

Griddle size

Commercial griddles in Australia are typically available in a variety of sizes, ranging from compact 24-inch models suitable for smaller establishments, up to expansive 72-inch models that can cater to high-volume kitchens.

However, size isn't merely a matter of cooking capacity; it's also intertwined with several other critical factors:

 

Hood Size

The hood size in your kitchen can determine the size of the griddle you can accommodate. It's crucial to ensure that your hood extends at least 6 inches beyond the equipment on all sides to properly capture and ventilate the heat, steam, and any potential grease-laden vapours produced during cooking.

Thus, your hood's dimensions might limit the griddle size you can safely and efficiently operate.

 

Menu

Your menu is another major consideration when determining griddle size.

If you serve a wide variety of griddled items or need to cook multiple dishes simultaneously, a larger griddle surface would be beneficial.

For example, breakfast establishments serving pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hash browns all off the griddle would need a large enough surface to cook multiple dishes concurrently.

On the other hand, a small café that only uses a griddle for occasional paninis or grilled sandwiches could make do with a smaller model.

Therefore, when selecting a commercial griddle, it's essential to balance the physical constraints of your kitchen with the needs of your menu.

Finding the right size can help optimise your kitchen workflow, reduce wait times, and ensure consistent, high-quality results.

 

 

Best commercial griddle Brands

 

Waldorf by Moffat

Waldorf, a shining star in the constellation of the Moffat group, proudly carries its lineage into the creation of world-class catering equipment.

Based in Australia, Waldorf's origins date back to the mid-20th century, a time when innovation began to redefine the culinary landscape.

What sets Waldorf apart in the Australian market is its profound understanding of local needs and unparalleled emphasis on innovation.

Their griddles not only meet the high-performance standards required by Australian commercial kitchens but also lead in energy efficiency.

The recommended models include the Waldorf RN8603GF-LS Cooktop/Griddle, offering a 4-burner cooktop, 1-burner griddle, adjustable feet, a drip tray, mid shelf, and a flame fail valve.

Another option is the GP8600G-LS, known for its seamless weld construction and a solid 20mm thick plate, ensuring exceptional heat retention and distribution.

Shop Waldorf by Moffat commercial griddles now

 

 

Goldstein

Established in 1911, Goldstein is a proud Australian company with a rich heritage in the design and manufacture of world-class commercial kitchen equipment.

Goldstein is a distinguished choice for commercial griddles in Australia, and here's why.

Their griddles exemplify the brand's commitment to innovation and quality, fusing robustness with technological excellence.

Designed specifically to thrive in the rigorous environment of a bustling kitchen, each Goldstein griddle encapsulates precise temperature control, energy efficiency, and exceptional reliability.

Top recommended models include the Goldstein GPGDB-12 Countertop Griddle with a 610mm bench top gas griddle, featuring a 20mm thick mild steel plate and stainless steel construction.

Another option is the GOLDSTEIN TK-45 2 Burner Griddle, which offers heavy-duty cast iron burners, a centre heat with a smooth mild steel surface, and the flexibility of bench mounting or optional stand.

 

 

Blueseal

 

Headquartered in Melbourne with a presence spanning Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, Blue Seal, a division of Moffat, is deeply rooted in the heart of Australia.             

Blue Seal shines in its mastery over commercial griddles.

Marrying pioneering technology with steadfast reliability, these griddles stand as a testament to Blue Seal's heritage of excellence.

With each sizzle on a Blue Seal griddle, a culinary masterpiece comes to life, earning the brand an unwavering trust from commercial kitchens across the country.

Recommended models include the Blue Seal GP514-LS Griddle, featuring a 600mm gas griddle on a leg stand, a powerful 53MJ/hr thermostatic burner system, and precise 90-300°C thermostat controls.

Another excellent option is the Blue Seal GP516-LS, offering a 900mm gas griddle on a leg stand, an 80MJ/hr thermostatic burner system, and the convenience of two 90-300°C thermostat controls.

Shop Blueseal commercial griddles now

 

 

Luus

 

Born from the innovative spirit of engineer Don Luu in 1998, Luus Industries has become an emblem of home-grown manufacturing prowess.

Anchored in their bespoke facility in Melbourne's West, Luus is a testament to the vitality of local manufacturing, fervently championing its growth and sustainability.

For Australian commercial kitchens seeking the finest in griddles, Luus stands as a beacon of quality and innovation.

Their griddles, imbued with both robust reliability and precise control, reflect the brand's commitment to superior craftsmanship and functionality.

We recommend the Luus CS-6P Griddle, a versatile option with a 600mm wide griddle plate and chargrill combinations. Another excellent choice is the Luus CS-12P-T Teppanyaki Grill, offering low splashback, variable flame control, and a convenient scrap bin for easy waste removal.

Shop Luus commercial griddles now

 

 

CookRite by Atosa

 

Atosa, a leading name in the commercial kitchen equipment industry, introduced CookRite to the world, aiming to bring high-quality, cost-effective cooking solutions to professional kitchens.

The company's dedication to using state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and stringent quality control measures ensures every product under the CookRite line meets the highest standards.

In the realm of commercial griddles in Australia, CookRite by Atosa enjoys a reputation for delivering excellence.

Each CookRite griddle encapsulates a unique blend of quality, affordability, and durability, making it an ideal choice for kitchens that demand efficiency without compromise.

Among CookRite by Atosa's impressive lineup, two models stand out for Australian commercial kitchens - the AT80G12G-F Griddle and the AT80G9G-F Griddle.

The CookRite AT80G12G-F Griddle comes equipped with a stainless steel flat-packed stand and an under-shelf for added convenience.

On the other hand, the CookRite AT80G9G-F Griddle shines with its exceptional power.

Each burner generates a gas output of 25 Mj/h, with a total power output reaching a hefty 75 Mj/h.

This model, too, benefits from a stainless steel flat-packed stand and under-shelf, balancing functionality and design aesthetics.

Shop CookRite by Atosa commercial griddles now

 

 

Used commercial griddles – worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on a new commercial griddle can put a strain on your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in a commercial griddle, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef’s range of ‘Certified Used’ commercial equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half years old, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

Considering the effective, or useful, life of a commercial griddle is around 10 years, you can be sure our Certified Used commercial griddles have plenty of life left in it.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website.

We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in Australia that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment.

Read more about ‘Certified Used’ equipment

 

 

Commercial griddle frequently asked questions

    

What are commercial griddles made of?

Commercial griddles are primarily made of high-grade metals, ensuring durability, even heat distribution, and corrosion resistance.

The griddle plate, the cooking surface, can be constructed from steel, known for its robustness and excellent heat conduction, or chrome, offering superior heat retention and easy release.  

The body and frame of griddles are typically stainless steel, providing strength, longevity, and resistance to rust and corrosion.

When choosing a griddle, consider your specific kitchen requirements, such as menu, order volume, space availability, and energy efficiency, and consult professionals for tailored advice.

 

How do I clean a commercial grill plate? 

Regular cleaning is crucial for maintaining your commercial grill plate.

After each use, scrape off excess food debris, then clean the surface with a griddle cleaner and a non-abrasive pad.

For deep cleaning, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Also, regularly check for any signs of wear or damage.

 

How to season a commercial griddle?

Seasoning a commercial griddle is an essential step to ensure optimal cooking performance and longevity.

Here's a step-by-step guide

 

Clean the Griddle

Start with a clean griddle.

Remove any protective coatings from the manufacturer, if present.

Clean the griddle surface with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.

Rinse and dry thoroughly.

 

Apply Oil

Choose a high smoke point oil like flaxseed, canola, or vegetable oil.

Apply a thin, even layer of oil across the entire surface of the griddle using a cloth or paper towel.
 

Heat the Griddle

Turn on the griddle and heat it to a high setting (around 175°C or 350°F). Allow the oil to heat until it starts to smoke.

This usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
 

Cool Down

After the oil has smoked, turn off the griddle and let it cool completely.
 

Repeat

Once the griddle is cool, repeat the process.

Apply another thin layer of oil, heat it until it smokes, then let it cool again.

Repeat these steps 2-3 times to build up a good seasoning layer.

 

 

Commercial griddle glossary

Thermal/Heat Radiation

The transfer of heat energy through electromagnetic waves, ensuring even cooking and desired browning on the commercial griddle.

 

Hood System

An important part of commercial kitchen ventilation, designed to capture and exhaust heat, steam, and cooking fumes.

Its size can influence the size of the griddle that can be installed.

 

Zonal Cooking

A feature in griddles that allows different areas of the griddle to be set to different heat levels..

 

Thermal Emissivity

Thermal Emissivity describes a material's efficiency to emit heat as thermal radiation.

For instance, steel, commonly used in commercial griddles, has high emissivity, absorbing and distributing heat quickly.

Conversely, chrome has lower emissivity but superior heat retention, leading to consistent cooking temperatures.

 

Recovery Time

The time it takes for a griddle to return to its set cooking temperature after food has been added.

 

Splash Guard

A raised edge around the griddle's sides and back to prevent oil or food from splashing onto the countertop or the chef.

 

Standby Mode

A feature that reduces the griddle's heat output when not in use, saving energy and reducing kitchen heat.

 

Modular Griddle

A griddle that's part of a modular cooking system.

Modular systems allow different types of cooking equipment (like griddles, charbroilers, and burners) to be combined into a single, customised unit.

 

 

Save your cash. Use ours!

Hospitality equipment can be expensive and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it helps generates.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it also gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 75% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 25% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.

Read more about Rent–Try–Buy.