Comprehensive Review of Blackstone 36 Inch Griddle 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Description

First Impressions of the Blackstone 2322 Original Omnivore 36 Inch Griddle

The Blackstone 2322 Original Omnivore 36 Inch Griddle with Hood immediately stands out as an impressive piece of equipment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. With its polished stainless steel construction and sleek black finish, this griddle feels like it was designed to last. At first glance, the size of the cooking surface—1296 square inches—caught my eye, making it clear that this is no ordinary grill. I was excited to see how this would handle everything from breakfast spreads to family cookouts.

Design and Build Quality

One of the most striking features of this product is its portable yet robust design. Despite its 145-pound weight, it feels surprisingly easy to maneuver, thanks to the thoughtful inclusion of foldable side shelves and a well-balanced frame. These dual folding side shelves are more than just a nice touch; they make prepping and organizing food a breeze. The rail system on the shelves stood out to me as a clever addition, allowing customization with accessories like squeeze bottles or seasoning baskets.

The X-braced hood not only adds to the durability of the griddle but also protects the cooking surface from external elements. Although the product is labeled as “portable,” it feels more like a semi-permanent fixture for your backyard or patio. Stainless steel components, including the handles and frame, exude durability and long-term reliability, making this worth considering if you’re looking for quality over a compact size.

Cooking Performance and Features

I knew I was in for a treat when I saw the four separate burners. These burners allow for precise temperature control across the 36-inch griddle surface, making it possible to cook multiple dishes simultaneously. I tested this by searing a steak on one side, grilling vegetables in the middle, and making pancakes on the other. The results? Everything was cooked evenly, thanks to the omnivore griddle plate’s uniform heating. The quick heat-up time was a major plus, saving me from having to stand around waiting.

The cooking surface itself is massive, easily accommodating meals for large groups. While I appreciated the space, cleaning such a large surface can be a bit of a chore, even with the included scraper and cleaning tools. However, the kit’s thoughtful accessories, like the basting brush and scour pads, made the process much easier. The two 32 oz condiment bottles were perfect for keeping oil and sauces handy while cooking—small details like these really added to the overall experience.

Key Benefits

• Generous cooking area: The 1296-square-inch surface is perfect for large meals.
• Versatile burners: Four independent heat zones allow for simultaneous cooking of different dishes.
• Efficient heating: The omnivore griddle plate ensures rapid and even heat distribution.
• Customizable side shelves: The rail system and folding design offer convenience and adaptability.
• Comprehensive accessory kit: Includes everything from spatulas to reusable griddle gloves.

Areas for Improvement

While the griddle is undeniably impressive, there are a few shortcomings worth noting:

• Weight: At 145 pounds, it’s not the most portable despite its label.
• Cleaning challenges: The large surface area, while functional, can be time-consuming to clean thoroughly.
• Storage space: Folding shelves help, but the overall size might be an issue for those with limited space.

Competing Products

Compared to other high-end outdoor grills like the Weber Genesis or Traeger Pro Series, this griddle holds its own in terms of cooking surface area and multi-zone heating control. While it lacks the wood pellet flavor of a Traeger, the propane-fueled system offers superior convenience and quicker heat-up times. On the other hand, the Weber Genesis has an edge in portability due to its lighter weight and compact design, though it sacrifices the expansive cooking surface of the Blackstone.

Where this product truly excels is in its versatility and accessory options. Few grills come with such a comprehensive kit, and the customizable rail system is a unique feature that competitors lack. However, the bulkiness and cleaning requirements might push some users towards sleeker alternatives.

Price Performance

In terms of value for money, this griddle delivers a lot for its price point. The combination of high-quality materials, a generous cooking area, and a wealth of included accessories makes it a competitive option. While it may not be the cheapest grill on the market, it offers cost-efficiency through its durability and versatile features. If you’re someone who values long-term investment over short-term savings, this grill is definitely worth considering.

Additional information