11 Best Hibachi Grills To Buy In 2021
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Hibachi grills are perfect for people who love to grill and are looking for a small, portable charcoal-fired grilling option. Based on traditional Japanese design, the grill derives its name from the word ‘Hibachi,’ meaning ‘fire bowl.’ These grills are simple yet effective and are designed to cook different meats, vegetables, and seafood.
We have compiled a list of the best Hibachi grills available online to help you have a great cooking experience while camping, picnicking, or barbecuing during weekends.
Best Hibachi Grills
1. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
A good option for grilling during camping and tailgate parties, this compact charcoal grill comes with a large grilling area to fit up to four medium steaks. Its triple-nickel-coated steel grate offers durability. Equipped with tuck-n-carry lid lock and pivoting legs, the Weber grill is easy to transport.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Measures 14.5″ x 21″ x 12.25″
- Primary cooking area of 160 square inches
- Porcelain-enameled lid and base prevents rusting
- Dampers to control the temperature
Cons:
- Body of the grill may be shallow
- Lid and handles may overheat
2. Cuisinart CGG-180T
Cuisinart’s stainless steel table top grill is perfect for small decks and patios due to its compact size. Fueled by propane and equipped with a twist start ignition, it is easy to light. It can cook up to eight steaks, four pounds of fish, and more. Its aluminum legs and stabilizing feet make it easy to set up.
Pros:
- Gas grill with 5,500 BTU stainless-steel burner
- Grilling area of 145 square inches
- Weighs 13.5lb
- Comes with a briefcase-style carrying handle
- Removable grate is dishwasher-safe
Cons:
- Some parts may overheat
- Stability may be an issue
3. Char-Griller E22424 Table Top Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill from Char-Griller has a heavy steel body and comes with two adjustable heat dampers. Equipped with an easy-to-clean ash pan, it can be attached to an existing Char-Griller barrel grill for Texas-style horizontal smoking. It can also be easily mounted on the 2123 Wrangler, 2828 Pro Deluxe, 2137 Outlaw, or 5050 Duo Grill.
Pros:
- Grilling area of 250 square inches
- Cast-iron grates
- Easy to clean the ash
- Can be attached to Char-Griller charcoal barrel grills as a side firebox
Cons:
- Paint may peel off or chip away
- Body may rust
4. Marsh Allen 30052 Cast Iron Hibachi Grill
This portable Hibachi grill is made of durable cast iron and comes with three-position adjustable cooking grids. It also features two adjustable air vents for controlling the charcoal burning rate. In addition, it is equipped with wooden handles to protect against overheating.
Pros:
- Grilling area of 157 square inches
- Weighs 16.3lb
- Measures 3.4″ x 18.75″ x 10.62″
- Easy to set up
Cons:
- Body may rust
- Wooden handles may fall off
5. Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill
The Large Yakatori charcoal grill from Fire Sense is a Japanese tabletop BBQ grill constructed from handmade clay. The refractory ceramic helps distribute the heat evenly for a great cooking experience. It comes with a chrome-plated cooking grill, an internal charcoal grate, and a stand with handles.
Pros:
- Grilling area of 157 square inches
- Comes with adjustable ventilation
- Weighs 18lb
- Measures 7″ x 10″ x 18″
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons:
- Clay body may crack
- Plating may peel off
6. ISUMER Charcoal Grill
This portable barbeque grill is great for small outdoor spaces. It is made of stainless steel and equipped with two air vents for temperature control. It comes with a non-stick grill pan, built-in grid charcoal frame ash catcher, convenient handles, and four detachable legs.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and store
- Portable
- Adjustable height
- Measures 15.9″ x 11″ x 8.8″ and weighs 3.78lb
Cons:
- Body may rust
- May be difficult to clean
7. Update International (HG-35/CI) Cast Iron Hibachi Set
This Hibachi set is perfect for use in the center of 12-inch and 14-inch pu-pu platters. It features a smooth cast iron body and a wooden base. It consists of a simple grill and fuel holder.
Pros:
- Measures 3⅓” in diameter and 4″ in height
- Easy to clean and use
- Weighs 2.25lb
- Portable
Cons:
- May be small for a group or family
- Body may rust
8. Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Hibachi-Style Portable Cast Iron Charcoal BBQ Grill
It is a good option for grilling different types of meats, seafood, and vegetables while camping and picnicking. The BBQ grill is portable yet sturdy and comes with a convenient handle, loop holders, sliding mini door for air ventilation, and fire grate for holding coal.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Perfect for one to three people
- Measures 21.7″ x 13.5″ x 9.9″
- Weighs 30.2lb
Cons:
- Grate may rust
- No removable ashtray
9. Mr. Flame Son of Hibachi Portable Vintage Cast Iron Charcoal Grill
Son of Hibachi is designed based on the concept of an ingenious blast furnace with the chimney effect, which leads to even heat distribution and faster cooking. This charcoal barbecuing system is made of carbon steel with cast iron cooking grids. In addition, it is equipped with carrying handles that fold down as legs for stability.
Pros:
- Self-cleaning and self-extinguishing
- Cooking surface area of 170 square inches
- Convertible roasting oven
- Vintage design of the 1980s
Cons:
- May be prone to rust
- May be bulky
10. Noto Dia Table-top Charcoal Grill
This traditional Shichirin Hida Konro table-top charcoal grill by Noto Dia comes with a wire mesh and wooden (Paulownia wood) rectangular base. Its body is made of diatomaceous earth or porous clay, and the wire mesh grill is made of iron and coated with zinc plating.
Pros:
- Made in Japan
- Elegant design
- Weighs 4.85lb
- Grill measures 6.3″ x 11.4″ x 5.1″
- Easy to handle
Cons:
- Not dishwasher-friendly
- May be small for a group
11. Chef Master 90206 Cast Iron Mini Hibachi Grill
This mini Hibachi grill is easy to use and a great option for grilling s’mores, appetizers, and kebabs indoors. It can also be placed in the center of a pu-pu platter. It is made of cast iron and features a wooden base. Besides, this grill is pre-seasoned, meaning you can start grilling with it straightaway.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Weighs 2.47lb
- Heats up quickly
- Uses fire gel as fuel
Cons:
- May be small for a group
How to Choose the Right Hibachi Grill?
When choosing a Hibachi grill, it is important to consider the following features.
- Cooking surface area: The grilling surface area can help you determine the amount of food you can grill, thus indicating the number of people you can serve and how easy it will be to carry. Some wider Hibachi grills can allow you to maintain different heat levels to keep your food warm and also sear other food items.
- Weight: If you are looking for a Hibachi grill that is easy to store and transport, it is important to consider the weight. One of the most important features of such types of grills is portability so that you can carry them for camping, picnics, or tailgate parties.
- Fuel: Hibachi grills can be fueled by gas, wood, or charcoal. Gas-fueled Hibachi grills usually use propane as the heating source, which is easy to ignite and convenient for managing the temperature. However, you may miss out on the flavor. Charcoal-fired grills may take longer to ignite and also be a bit difficult in terms of temperature control, but they guarantee flavor to the grilled food.
- Size and shape: Depending on the grilling surface area, the size and shape of the Hibachi grills may vary. Size and shape may subsequently affect the portability and ease of use.
- Material: The material of the body can determine the durability and weight of the Hibachi grill. Generally, these grills are made of cast iron. However, stainless steel and clay (diatomaceous earth) can also be used in the body. Based on your requirements and aesthetic preferences, you can choose the right material for the grill.
Also, you may consider the cost of the Hibachi grill. Depending on the frequency of use, you may want to go for a model that offers value for money.
What Safety Tips Should I Follow while Using a Hibachi Grill?
It is important to maintain safety when using grills.
- Most Hibachi grills use charcoal as the heat source. Therefore, use a grill in a well-ventilated or open area to avoid the accumulation of harmful smoke.
- While cooking, the grill gets hot. It is, thus, advised to keep children and pets away from the grill and also maintain safety to avoid burns or fire.
- In the case of gas grills, do not turn on the gas until you open the lid and are ready to use.
- Avoid overloading the grill as it may lead to a grease fire. It may also cause stability issues.
- It is equally important to turn off or wrap up the grill after use. You must avoid leaving the grill unattended to ensure safety.
- Use the right gear while grilling. Wear long sleeves or grilling gloves.
How to Use Hibachi Grills?
Hibachi grills work similarly to the regular charcoal grills. However, depending on the models, the usage may vary.
- Make sure the grill is cleaned before cooking.
- If your grill is not pre-seasoned, you may want to use olive oil or vegetable oil to grease the grilling area.
- You may need to burn the charcoal, which may require lighter fluid and take time to burn. Gas grills may just need a switch to turn on the grill.
- Once the charcoals are heated or ashed, spread them at the base of the grill. You may also want to add more charcoal on one side of the grill to create a two-zone set-up with different temperatures.
- Depending on the type of food you are cooking, make sure to keep checking and adjusting the temperature of the grill.
- Once done, make sure to let it cool down, empty the ash, and clean the grilling area for future use.
Hibachi grills are designed to be versatile, portable, and easy to use. Suitable to cook different types of meats, vegetables, and seafood, these grills can make your camping trips, tailgate parties, and picnics exciting. Consider all the above factors while choosing the right one for your outdoor activities.
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