Are you an apartment dweller with a passion for grilling?
Don't let limited outdoor space dampen your culinary ambitions! You can enjoy the sizzling flavors and mouthwatering aromas of grilled goodness right at home with the right grill for your apartment balcony.
In this article, we've curated a selection of the best grills specifically designed for small spaces. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a beginner looking to embark on your grilling journey, we've got you covered. Get ready to elevate your balcony BBQ game and create unforgettable meals for yourself, your family, and your friends.
Let's explore the top contenders for the best grill for apartment balconies and ignite a whole new level of outdoor cooking excitement!
How We've Made Our Selection
Your safety is our top priority. So we ensured all the products we chose were safe to use in apartment balconies. Moreover, we make sure that the product is authentic and verified. We looked at customer feedback and reviewed it to shortlist the products. Since it is easy to overspend on apartment grills, we set the upper limit of the budget to around $300.
Electric Grills
1. George Foreman Electric Grill
2. Char-Broil Electric Grill
Gas Grills
3. Napoleon TravelQ Portable Gas Grill
4. Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill
Charcoal Grills
5. Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill
6. Gas One Charcoal Grill
6 Best Grills for Apartment Balconies
Electric Grills
What We Love
- Good value for money.
- Portable.
- Easy to use.
- Temperature control.
- No smoke.
- Ideal for 12 people.
- Nonstick.
What to Keep in Mind
- Stand could be more stable.
The George Foreman is one of the best grills for people living in an apartment. This grill can easily make food for 12 to 13 people, so it is also great for parties. This electric grill is charcoal and propane free, so you will always remain smoke-free.
It is portable and easy to use. The adjustable temperature control provides you with an opportunity to cook perfectly. It lets you choose from 5 heat settings to make a tasty meal since the perfect amount of heat is the secret ingredient to mouthwatering food.
We love how it has a nonstick coating, removing any need for butter or oil. The sloped grilling surface removes fat and oil from meats, making the food tastier. Since it is portable, you can move it from place to place.
The George Foreman grill comes with a removable stand, making it great for tight spaces. Its frame is made of alloy, so you know how durable this grill is. Customers were happy with this product. However, some feel that the stand is not stable enough and can cause the grill to drip.
Other than that, the George Foreman grill is loved by most users.
What We Love
- Removable warming rack.
- Great temperature control.
- Perfect size for a balcony.
- It can serve 12 people at a time.
- Easy-to-clean grates.
- Even the spread of heat.
What to Keep in Mind
- It takes time to heat up with food in it.
Make your family time exciting with a char broil electric grill. This electric grill is an infrared grill that prevents any flare-up and makes the food ten times tastier.
It has an adjustable temperature control knob which you can set accordingly. Moreover, the removable warming rack can help to keep the food warm and hot. Since it is made up of porcelain-coated grates, you can rest assured that it is rust-resistant and easy to clean.
It is small enough to fit on a patio and large enough to feed 12 to 14 people at a time. The heat produced is spread evenly across the grill, giving you a perfectly cooked meal.
The grates are easy to clean, and you can easily pull out the grease tray to clean it up. The lid-mounted temperature gauge makes the food warm and hot with increased heat control.
Gas Grills
What We Love
- Produces less smoke.
- Portable.
- Windproof design.
- Durable.
- Ergonomic design.
- Compact grill.
- Grill marks.
What to Keep in Mind
- Heavier than what some consumers expect. This grill weighs in at 30 pounds!
Gas grills work more efficiently than electric grills, but the downside is that they produce smoke. What we love about the Kenmore gas grill is that it produces less smoke. It is arguably the best small gas grill. It is one of those portable gas grills that instantly cook tasty meals.
This gas grill can grill 14 hamburgers at the same time. The windproof design makes it durable and prevents it from any damage. It also stops the wind from hindering the preparation of the meal. It is portable because its legs can be folded, and you can take it with you on adventures or even move around your balcony.
Since it is a gas grill, you would not have to depend on electricity or batteries. The ergonomic design makes your cooking effortless. The compact gas grill design makes it easy to pack and transport.
What We Love
- 30,000 BTUs of cooking power.
- Folding side shelves.
- Grill tool holder.
- Built-in heat thermometer.
- 1-year warranty.
- Good value for money.
What to Keep in Mind
- Some consumers have experienced the paint coming off over time.
The Kenmore gas grill is a rockstar when it comes to apartment balcony grills. It comes with a trolley with wheels, making moving it easy.
It has 30,000 BTUs of cooking power, making patio barbecue efficient. This grill also features 381 square inches of primary cooking space and 131 square inches for a warming rack or slow cooking space.
The folding side shelves attached to this grill make it a portable propane grill, and you can easily store it when you are not using it. The grill tool holder makes hanging bbq grill accessories such as spatula, fork, and tongs easy and convenient. This helps reduce mess and keep it safe from children.
The gas grill also features a built-in heat thermometer which will monitor the temperature of the grill when it is closed. You can start grilling by pushing the electronic igniter. The casters can swivel and set on the lock to secure your grilling in one place. It is durable since it is powder coated with steel construction. It is highly resistant to corrosion, flaking, scratching, and puncture. The best thing about this product is that it has a full year of parts warranty.
While the grill is portable, many customers have difficulty moving it as the wheels cause too much friction. Moreover, it can be a bit tricky to clean. They also complained that the paint started to peel off the heating plate after one wash.
Charcoal Grills
What We Love
- Lightweight.
- Even the spread of heat.
- Dual venting system.
- Tasty food.
- Enamel-coated firebox.
What to Keep in Mind
- Smaller size.
If you are tight on budget and looking for a classic charcoal grill, you should definitely check out this grill.
The Cuisinart charcoal grill is great for small grill parties. It has a 14-inch grate with 150 square inches of cooking space which can cook 3 to 4 burgers at a time. The size is smaller compared to others, but it is great for a small family.
We like that it is light enough to carry with you anywhere you go. The lid locks tightly, making it secure. The heat distribution is even and spread out efficiently. The best thing about this grill is its affordability.
The dual venting system gives you charcoal management and temperature control. Since it is a charcoal grill, your food will have an amazing smoky flavor. The three secure lid lock ensures the safety and easy transport.
We know how messy a charcoal grill can be. But this grill has an enamel-coated firebox and drip tray, making it less messy and easier to use. Some customers noticed that the grill has some screws missing. Some also faced a bit of a problem in lighting charcoal. The instructions were not straightforward on how to assemble the grill.
What We Love
- LightweightLightweight.
- Portable.
- Superior construction.
- Good ventilation.
- Tight-gapped cooking grip.
What to Keep in Mind
- This grill could be sturdier.
The Gasone charcoal grill is one of the best charcoal grills for your apartment balcony. The product only weighs only about 3 pounds! The compact design makes it lightweight and portable. It is an ideal grill for balconies, decks, patios, camping, and tailgating.
It has a well-thought-out design and features 16 inches of grill space, allowing you to prepare steaks or vegetables. It can withhold any kind of meat cut, burgers, and hotdogs, while still being small and compact at the same time with an even spread of heat.
Since it is a charcoal grill, it features good ventilation. The constant air flow keeps the fire going and ensures optimal temperature for cooking. You can carry this grill easily and safely since it has a tight gapped cooking grip. This will prevent your food from dropping, ensuring stress-free cooking.
Three Main Grill Types
There are various grills out there to purchase, but most of them can be categorized according to the following:
Electric Grill
We believe that the electric grill will be the best option for people having a bbq on their apartment balcony. Why? Because they do not produce any smoke and are more environmentally friendly. They cause less pollution and are considered safe to use indoors. The only disadvantage of having an electric grill is that you would depend on electricity.
Gas Grill
Most people argue that a gas grill is a better option. They believe that they are more efficient and produce more heat than an electric grill. However, it does produce some smoke, so you need to take note of that.
Charcoal Grill
We do not suggest buying charcoal grills for the apartment balcony since they produce too much smoke. It is a good option for an outdoor or backyard grill. Since it is made up of charcoal, it embarks a smoky flavor that many people love. However, it is more labor-intensive and can be messy.
How do these grills work?
The grills work differently depending on their fuel type.
Electric Grills
These types of grills work with the use of electricity. You just have to plug in the wire to the electrical outlet and control the temperature through its buttons.
Gas Grills
Gas grills can use either propane or natural gas as fuel. Propane is a common fuel choice for gas grills and uses a portable propane tank that can be easily replaced or refilled. Natural gas, on the other hand, is a convenient option for grills that are connected to a natural gas line in your home or outdoor space. It eliminates the need for propane tanks and allows for a continuous fuel supply. When using a gas grill, it's important to ensure that you have the appropriate fuel source and compatible connections for safe and efficient operation.
Charcoal Grills
A charcoal grill works by burning charcoal to heat the cooking surface. You can light the charcoal, and as it heats up, you will smell enticing smokes which will give the flavor to the food. They have a venting system to control the temperature.
Buyers Guide
Size and Capacity
Since you are looking for a grill for your balcony, it should be compact. Therefore consider the size before making a purchase. Also, look at how much food can be grilled in it.
Grill Type
Various grill types are available, each with unique features and benefits. Gas grills offer convenience and precise temperature control, making them popular among grill enthusiasts. Charcoal grills, on the other hand, provide that classic smoky flavor and are beloved by purists. Electric grills are an excellent option for those who want a hassle-free grilling experience, especially in apartment settings where open flames may not be allowed. Understanding the pros and cons of each grill type will help you make an informed decision and find the grill that best suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Temperature Control
Some grills do not have good temperature control, which makes it difficult to cook hearty food in them. So, remember that your balcony grill should have good temperature control.
Safety and Maintenance
Safety should be your top priority, especially if you have kids in your home. Look out for safety precautions such as secured handles, shut-off valves, and sturdy construction. Also, consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Price and Warranty
When it comes to balcony grills, it is easy to overspend. So, set your budget wherever possible. Go for products that come with a warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to grill on an apartment balcony?
Grilling on an apartment balcony is generally allowed, but it's important to check your building's rules and regulations regarding outdoor cooking. Some apartments may have restrictions or specific guidelines in place for grilling to ensure safety and prevent fire hazards. It's essential to follow these rules and use common sense when grilling on a balcony to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
How do you hide a grill on an apartment balcony?
If you want to hide a grill on an apartment balcony, there are a few options you can consider. You can use privacy screens or tall plants to create a barrier between the grill and the view from neighboring apartments. Another option is strategically positioning the grill, such as against a wall or in a corner, to minimize its visibility. Just maintain proper ventilation and keep a safe distance from any flammable materials.
What is the safest way to grill on a balcony?
To grill safely on a balcony, remember a few precautions. First, ensure your balcony is sturdy enough to support the weight of the grill and the cooking process. Position the grill away from any flammable materials, such as furniture, curtains, or plants. Ensure proper airflow and ventilation by keeping the balcony door or windows open. Never leave the grill unattended while it's in use, and have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies. Following these safety measures will help you enjoy a safe and enjoyable grilling experience on your balcony.
What Option of Best Grill for Apartment Balcony is Best for You?
All in all, deciding what grill for the apartment balcony is ultimately down to personal preference.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, consider charcoal grills or electric grills. A gas grill may be ideal for those with a larger budget who want something more permanent and effortless. Ultimately, no matter what style you choose, having an outdoor space to gather around and enjoy meals together can be a wonderful outdoor oasis – even right on your own balcony!
Cheers, and bon appétit!
Items reviewed:
Electric Grills
1. George Foreman Electric Grill
2. Char-Broil Electric Grill
Gas Grills
3. Napoleon TravelQ Portable Gas Grill
4. Kenmore 3-Burner Outdoor BBQ Grill
Charcoal Grills
5. Cuisinart CCG-190 Portable Charcoal Grill
6. Gas One Charcoal Grill
