Griddles

A commercial gas griddle is a versatile cooking appliance that is commonly used in restaurants and commercial kitchens. It is a flat, metal surface that is heated by gas burners or electricity underneath. The griddle can be used to cook a wide variety of foods such as pancakes, eggs, burgers, and more. It allows for efficient and quick cooking, and the flat surface ensures even cooking and heat distribution. They are a must-have for any commercial kitchen looking to improve cooking efficiency and output while providing consistently delicious food to customers.

When it comes to selecting commercial griddles, there's an array of top-notch brands to choose from. At Restaurant Equipment Online, we provide a variety of high-grade brands, such as AG Equipment, Apuro, AustHeat, Baron, Fagor, Gasmax, LKK, Thor, and Woodson. Each brand comes with its distinct features and advantages tailored to meet the unique requirements of commercial kitchens. For instance, AG Equipment is renowned for its durable, high-performance griddles, while Fagor specialises in energy-efficient models that help cut down on energy expenses. Woodson is a highly sought-after brand renowned for its extensive selection of versatile and reliable griddles, perfectly suited for any commercial kitchen setting. Ultimately, the ideal commercial griddle brand for your establishment hinges on your specific needs and budget.

In commercial kitchens, a flat-top grill and a griddle are two different cooking surfaces with distinct differences. 

A flat-top grill has a smooth, flat metal cooking surface that is heated from underneath and has a series of slanted grates that allow grease to flow into a collection pan. 

A griddle, on the other hand, is a smooth, flat metal cooking surface that is heated from underneath and has no grates. The heat spreads across the entire cooktop, allowing for even cooking. 

The main difference between the two is that a flat-top grill is designed for cooking foods that require a charred, smoky flavour that you get from chargrills, such as burgers and steaks, while a griddle is best for cooking foods that require a flat, even cooking surface, such as pancakes and eggs. Additionally, a griddle is easier to clean than a flat-top grill because it doesn't have slanted grates that can trap food and grease. 

The Gasmax 1/2 Char &1/2 Griddle in our collection is a great example of a product that combines the best of both worlds, with a flat surface for cooking breakfast items and a ridged side for grilling meats.

When in search of a commercial griddle, there are some vital factors to keep in mind:

• Footprint: Selecting the ideal commercial griddle depends heavily on the size that best fits your kitchen space. Fortunately, at Restaurant Equipment Online, we provide a wide array of choices to accommodate any kitchen layout. Our griddles come in various dimensions, ranging from 300 to 1220mm in width, 365 to 930mm in depth, and 200 to 1175mm in height, making it easy for you to discover the perfect match for your establishment.
  No matter if you prefer a freestanding or countertop model, our commercial griddles are designed to endure the demands of a bustling kitchen environment. For instance, the Austheat Freestanding Hotplate boasts a spacious cooking area, efficient grease drainage, and adjustable feet for added stability. On the other hand, the Apuro Countertop Griddle offers a compact design that's user-friendly, equipped with a robust heating element and a customisable thermostat for accurate cooking results.
• Surface Material: The surface material of a commercial griddle is an essential factor to consider when making a purchase, as it can significantly affect the quality and consistency of the food being prepared.
  Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its durability and resistance to corrosion and rust, making it easy to clean and maintain. Our Thor Gas Griddle is an excellent example of a stainless steel griddle, built to withstand the rigours of a commercial kitchen with its heavy-duty construction and powerful burners.
  Cast iron griddles, such as our Apuro Cast Iron Griddle, provide excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring consistent and even cooking. Cast iron surfaces also develop natural seasoning over time, improving the flavour of the food. Meanwhile, chrome surfaces, like the one found on our Baron Electric Fry Top, offer a smooth and non-stick surface that is easy to clean and maintain. 
• Power source: The power source of a commercial griddle is an essential factor to consider when purchasing one. And it is essential to keep in mind the unique needs of your kitchen. Each power source has its advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one can greatly impact the efficiency and productivity of your kitchen. Whether you prefer the control and convenience of electricity or the power and heat of gas, Restaurant Equipment Online has a wide selection of griddles to choose from.
  If you prefer natural gas, our Fagor FTG-C7-05L is an excellent choice. This griddle features a powerful burner with thermostatic control, allowing for precise temperature regulation. For those who prefer LPG, our GasMax GG-36LPG Three Burner LPG Griddle is a popular option. With its smooth and large cooking surface, it is ideal for cooking up a variety of foods quickly and efficiently. And for electric griddles, our Baron 1 Burner Electric Fry Top with smooth mild steel plate and thermostat control offers easy temperature adjustments and consistent heat distribution, making it a top-tier choice for any commercial kitchen.

• Temperature control: Temperature management is essential when it comes to a professional griddle, and we provide both manual and thermostat-controlled options to cater to your unique requirements. Our manual griddles are ideal for experienced chefs who trust their instincts and expertise. One of the top choices among our manual models is the LKK 600mm gas griddle with legs. This griddle features an impressive 22MJ/h burner and a spacious 600x450mm cooking surface, making it perfect for bustling kitchens with high demands. With manual control, you can fine-tune the temperature as required, guaranteeing that your dishes are flawlessly cooked every time.
  If you're looking for a more hands-off approach, our thermostat-regulated griddles are an excellent choice. These griddles come with a thermostat that keeps an eye on and stabilizes the temperature, guaranteeing consistent and even cooking for your dishes every time. Our Woodson Large Griddle WGDA60 is a top-notch example of a premium thermostat-regulated griddle. Featuring a spacious 600x520mm cooking area and accurate thermostat management, this griddle is ideal for bustling commercial kitchens. The thermostat control enables your team to set the desired temperature and step away, confident that the food will be flawlessly cooked each time.
• Heat distribution: The heat distribution in a commercial griddle is an essential aspect that needs to be taken into account before making a purchase. Our griddles feature thick metal cooking plates that are capable of distributing heat evenly, so you can cook your food consistently and perfectly without the risk of burning or overcooking.
  In addition, some of our griddles double as toaster griddles, allowing you to fry on top and toast below for maximum versatility in the kitchen. One of our top-rated griddles is the Austheat Freestanding Hotplate Grill RB-AHT860, which features a 12 mm thick heavy-duty machined steel, a smooth cooking plate and a durable construction that is built to last. Plus, with the added feature of being able to toast bread or buns on the same machine, our griddles provide maximum value for your investment.

Griddles come in various sizes, so it depends on your cooking needs. For home use, a 24-inch griddle is usually sufficient. For commercial use, a larger griddle may be necessary.

Achieving the perfect balance of caramelization and thorough cooking on a commercial griddle usually calls for temperatures between 150°C and 205°C. For optimal results, we recommend maintaining a range of 175°C to 190°C. However, it's important to consult cooking guidelines for specific dishes, as each may have unique temperature requirements.

Yes, griddles are great for cooking seafood such as shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets.

Absolutely! Commercial griddles are versatile and can be utilized for indoor and outdoor cooking, provided that you ensure proper ventilation and follow safety measures. Outdoor griddles are frequently designed with portability in mind and might operate on propane, making them an excellent choice for catering occasions or alfresco gatherings.

It's important to use cookware specifically designed for griddle cooking when using a commercial griddle in your kitchen. This includes heat-resistant spatulas, tongs, grill brushes, and griddle scrapers. Using the right tools ensures safe and efficient cooking on a commercial griddle.

Yes, commercial griddles generally require a ventilation system to meet regulatory standards, maintain safety, and ensure a comfortable working environment. In fact, Australian commercial kitchens must adhere to specific regulations and standards set by local authorities, such as the Australian Standards AS1668.2 and AS/NZS 1668.1. These standards outline the requirements for mechanical ventilation systems, ensuring that commercial griddles and other cooking appliances are effectively ventilated to maintain air quality and safety. Consult with a professional kitchen designer or local authorities to determine the specific ventilation requirements for your commercial kitchen.

Cleaning a professional griddle is a breeze – simply grab a grill scraper or brush to eliminate any leftover food particles, and then gently wipe the surface with a damp cloth. For a more thorough cleanse, opt for a non-abrasive griddle cleaning solution or degreaser. To keep your griddle in tip-top shape, make sure to clean it routinely, inspect for any wobbly or worn-out components, and confirm that ventilation is adequate.

The lifespan of a commercial griddle depends on several factors, such as usage, maintenance, and build quality. On average, a well-maintained griddle can last up to 10 years or more. However, if a griddle is used heavily on a daily basis or not properly maintained, its lifespan can be significantly shortened. It is important to keep the griddle clean, lubricated, and properly calibrated to maximise its lifespan. If the griddle is showing signs of wear and tear or not functioning properly, it may be time to consider refurbishing or replacing it.

Professional griddles, commonly used in commercial kitchens, are typically made of cast iron, stainless steel, or a combination of both. Cast iron griddles are known for their ability to distribute heat evenly and maintain high temperatures, while stainless steel griddles offer excellent durability and are easy to clean. Some griddles like this Baron 1 Burner Electric Fry Top also have a chrome finish for added non-stick properties. The material used to make a griddle can affect its cooking performance and longevity, so it is important to choose one that is suitable for the type of cooking and frequency of use in your commercial kitchen.

With a spacious, flat cooking surface, a professional-grade griddle promises heat all across the board and gives you masterful control over your cooking temperature. Its design is a multitasker's dream, letting you sizzle, sear and grill different dishes all at once, and all in record time. Plus, the sheer versatility of a commercial griddle means you can use it to whip up everything from breakfast pancakes to dinner steaks, making it a culinary jack of all trades.

Commercial griddles come in different types to suit your specific needs. The main types include gas griddles and electric griddles. Gas griddles are powered by natural gas or LPG, offering efficient heat distribution and control. Electric griddles, on the other hand, require a 3 phase connection and provide consistent heating. If you have limited space, countertop griddles are compact options designed to fit on your existing countertop. Choose the type of commercial griddle that best fits your kitchen setup and cooking requirements.