Outdoor Griddles & Flat Top Grills | Best of Backyard
Outdoor griddles—also known as flat top grills—offer unmatched versatility for backyard cooking. From breakfast favorites to smash burgers, stir-fry, and fajitas, griddles provide even heat across a large cooking surface for fast, consistent results. At Best of Backyard, we carry premium outdoor griddles built for serious performance and long-term outdoor use.
Whether you’re adding a griddle to an outdoor kitchen or upgrading your backyard cooking setup, our team is here to help. When you contact Best of Backyard, you’ll always speak with a real, knowledgeable expert—never a call center or automated system. We provide 100% human support, 6 days a week, so you can shop with confidence.
Are Outdoor Griddles Right for Your Backyard?
Outdoor griddles are ideal for cooks who want maximum cooking space and flexibility. Unlike traditional grills, flat top griddles cook food directly on a solid steel surface, making them perfect for foods that would otherwise fall through grill grates.
An outdoor griddle may be right for you if you:
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Cook a wide variety of foods beyond traditional grilling
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Want even, edge-to-edge heat
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Prepare meals for large groups
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Enjoy fast cook times and easy cleanup
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Want restaurant-style cooking at home
From everyday meals to entertaining, griddles handle it all.
Why Cook on a Flat Top Griddle?
Griddles provide consistent heat and complete control over your cooking surface.
Benefits of Outdoor Griddles
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Even Heat Distribution: No flare-ups or hot spots
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Large Cooking Surface: Cook multiple foods at once
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Perfect for Delicate Foods: Eggs, pancakes, vegetables, and seafood
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High-Heat Searing: Ideal for smash burgers and fajitas
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Easy Cleanup: Grease management systems simplify maintenance
These features make flat top griddles a favorite for backyard chefs and entertainers.
Types of Outdoor Griddles
Outdoor griddles come in several configurations depending on your space and cooking style.
Freestanding Griddles
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Mounted on carts with storage and mobility
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Quick setup and easy placement
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Ideal for patios and flexible backyard layouts
Built-In Griddles
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Designed for permanent outdoor kitchen islands
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Seamless integration with other outdoor cooking equipment
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Popular as a complement to gas grills
Our experts at Best of Backyard help you choose the right configuration and size for your space.
What to Look for in an Outdoor Griddle
Choosing the right griddle involves more than just size. Key features include:
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Cooking Surface Thickness: Thicker steel holds heat better
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BTU Output & Burner Design: Consistent, controllable heat
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Grease Management: Front or rear grease traps for easy cleaning
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Stainless Steel Construction: Durability and weather resistance
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Ignition & Controls: Reliable startup and precise temperature control
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Fuel Type: Propane or natural gas options
We focus on real-world performance so you get a griddle that fits how you cook.
Griddle Accessories That Expand Your Cooking Options
Enhance your flat top cooking experience with:
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Griddle covers for weather protection
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Presses and spatulas
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Wind guards and splash shields
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Scrapers and cleaning tools
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Prep carts and side shelves
The right accessories make griddle cooking faster, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
Built-In vs. Freestanding Griddles
Outdoor griddles are available in both freestanding and built-in designs.
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Freestanding Griddles: Flexible placement and mobility
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Built-In Griddles: Ideal for custom outdoor kitchen layouts
If you’re designing an outdoor kitchen, Best of Backyard ensures proper spacing, ventilation, and layout for safe installation.
Buy Outdoor Griddles with Confidence at Best of Backyard
At Best of Backyard, we don’t just sell griddles—we help you choose the right one for how you cook and entertain. From compact flat tops to professional-grade griddles, you’ll receive honest guidance backed by hands-on experience.
You’ll always receive 100% human support, 6 days a week, from outdoor cooking experts who truly understand outdoor griddles.
Visit our Riverside CA showroom or contact Best of Backyard today to find the perfect outdoor griddle for your backyard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Carbon steel vs. stainless steel cook surface—why does it matter?
Carbon steel seasons like cast iron for a non-stick patina; stainless stays silver and resists rust. Both hit 500 °F+, so choose the maintenance style you prefer.
Do griddles have multiple heat zones?
Yes—independent burners let you sear on one side and keep food warm on the other. Look for at least two zones on 30″ models, and more for larger griddles.
How do I season a new griddle plate?
Heat to medium-high, thin-coat with high-smoke-point oil, let it smoke off, and repeat 3–4 times. We include a step-by-step card in every shipment.
Is cleanup really easier than a grill?
Absolutely. Scrape debris to the front or rear grease port, wipe with a paper towel, add oil, and you’re done—no grates to scrub.
Can I cook acidic foods like tomatoes?
Yes, but deglaze quickly and re-oil after cooking—acid can strip seasoning if left to sit.
Will the plate rust if I leave it outside?
Keep it lightly oiled and covered once cool. A little surface rust wipes off with oil and a grill stone; stainless plates resist rust even longer so consider a Stainless Steel Griddle and not a Iron one from companies like Blackstone
What foods shine on a flat top?
Smash burgers, breakfast spreads, tacos al pastor, hibachi-style stir-fries, seared scallops, and even pizza with a dome and stone.
Which accessories are must-haves?
Griddle spatulas, squeeze bottles, melting domes, scraper, digital thermometer, and a fitted cover. Add them to your Best of Backyard cart for bundle savings.
How hot do your griddles get?
Most reach 500–550 °F at high; dedicated sear stations on premium units can spike to 700 °F for steakhouse crust.
How fast will my flat top grill ship?
In-stock carts leave our California warehouse in 1–2 business days and arrive nationwide within a week. Local customers can add assembly and white-glove delivery.
