Best Commercial Griddles for Food Trucks in 2025

When it comes to running a successful food truck, having the right equipment is crucial. One of the most essential pieces of equipment is the commercial griddle. Whether you’re flipping burgers, cooking pancakes, or searing steaks, a reliable griddle can make or break your operation. In this article, I’ll dive deep into the world of commercial griddles for food trucks, exploring what makes a great griddle, the top options on the market, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

As someone who’s spent years in the food industry and now calls Nashville home, I’ve seen firsthand how the right equipment can transform a food truck business. So, let’s get started and find the perfect griddle for your mobile kitchen.

Living in Nashville, I’ve had the pleasure of trying out some amazing food trucks. One thing that always stands out is the quality of the food, and a big part of that is the equipment used. A good griddle can help you cook food evenly and efficiently, which is essential when you’re serving a long line of hungry customers.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about commercial griddles for food trucks. From the different types available to the key features to look for, we’ll help you make an informed decision. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your existing equipment, read on to find the best commercial griddle for your food truck.

Why a Commercial Griddle is Essential for Food Trucks

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s talk about why a commercial griddle is so important for food trucks. Unlike traditional kitchens, food trucks have limited space and need equipment that can handle a high volume of cooking quickly and efficiently. A commercial griddle fits this bill perfectly.

Griddles offer a large, flat cooking surface that can handle multiple items at once. This makes them ideal for cooking burgers, sandwiches, pancakes, and more. Plus, they’re easy to clean and maintain, which is a big plus in the fast-paced world of food trucks.

But not all griddles are created equal. When choosing a commercial griddle for your food truck, there are several factors to consider. Let’s break down the key features to look for.

Key Features to Look for in a Commercial Griddle

Size and Cooking Surface

One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the griddle and its cooking surface. Food trucks have limited space, so you need a griddle that fits your layout while still providing enough cooking area to handle your menu items.

Most commercial griddles come in sizes ranging from 24 to 72 inches. For food trucks, a 36-inch griddle is often a good balance between size and cooking capacity. However, if you have a larger menu or expect high volume, you might need a bigger griddle.

Additionally, consider the material of the cooking surface. Stainless steel and chrome are popular choices due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Some griddles also come with non-stick surfaces, which can be helpful for certain types of cooking.

Heating Elements and Temperature Control

The heating elements and temperature control are crucial for consistent cooking. Look for griddles with even heat distribution to ensure your food cooks uniformly. Some griddles come with multiple heating zones, allowing you to cook different items at different temperatures simultaneously.

Temperature control is also important. Digital controls are more precise and easier to use than manual knobs. Some advanced models even come with programmable settings, allowing you to set specific temperatures for different menu items.

Power Source

Food trucks can be powered by gas, electricity, or propane. Make sure the griddle you choose is compatible with your power source. Gas griddles are popular for their quick heat-up times and even cooking, but they require a gas hookup. Electric griddles are easier to set up and use, but they may not be as powerful as gas models.

Propane griddles are a good option for food trucks that operate in areas without easy access to gas or electricity. They’re portable and can be used almost anywhere, but you’ll need to keep an eye on your propane supply.

Durability and Maintenance

A commercial griddle is an investment, so you want one that’s built to last. Look for models made from durable materials like stainless steel. These are not only sturdy but also resistant to corrosion and easy to clean.

Maintenance is another important factor. Griddles with removable plates or easy-to-clean surfaces can save you time and effort. Some models also come with built-in cleaning systems, which can be a big plus.

Additional Features

Some griddles come with additional features that can enhance your cooking experience. For example, splash guards can help keep your cooking area clean, while grease trays make it easy to collect and dispose of excess grease.

Other features to look for include adjustable legs for leveling, insulated handles for safety, and built-in thermometers for precise temperature control.

Top Commercial Griddles for Food Trucks

1. The Blackstone 36-inch Commercial Griddle

The Blackstone 36-inch Commercial Griddle is a popular choice among food truck owners. It features a large cooking surface made from cold-rolled steel, which provides excellent heat distribution and durability.

This griddle is powered by propane and comes with four independently controlled burners, allowing you to cook multiple items at different temperatures. It also has a built-in grease management system, making cleanup a breeze.

One of the standout features of the Blackstone is its portability. It comes with foldable legs and wheels, making it easy to move around and set up. This is particularly useful for food trucks that operate in different locations.

2. The Royal Gourmet PD1301S 3-Burner Gas Griddle

The Royal Gourmet PD1301S is another great option for food trucks. It features a 316 square inch cooking surface made from porcelain-enameled steel, which is both durable and easy to clean.

This griddle is powered by gas and comes with three independently controlled burners. It also has a built-in grease cup for easy cleanup and foldable legs for portability. One of the unique features of the Royal Gourmet is its side tables, which provide additional prep space.

3. The Cuisinart CGG-501 Gourmet Gas Griddle

The Cuisinart CGG-501 is a compact yet powerful griddle that’s perfect for smaller food trucks. It features a 285 square inch cooking surface made from cold-rolled steel, which provides excellent heat distribution.

This griddle is powered by propane and comes with two independently controlled burners. It also has a built-in grease cup and a twist-to-start ignition system for easy operation. One of the standout features of the Cuisinart is its compact design, making it a great choice for food trucks with limited space.

4. The Camp Chef Flat Top Griddle FTG600

The Camp Chef FTG600 is a versatile griddle that’s suitable for a variety of cooking tasks. It features a large 604 square inch cooking surface made from rolled steel, which provides excellent heat distribution and durability.

This griddle is powered by propane and comes with four independently controlled burners. It also has a built-in grease management system and foldable legs for portability. One of the unique features of the Camp Chef is its interchangeable flat top griddle and grill box, allowing you to switch between griddling and grilling.

5. The Chef’s Deal 36-inch Commercial Griddle

The Chef’s Deal 36-inch Commercial Griddle is a top-tier choice for food trucks looking for reliability and performance. This griddle is designed with a robust stainless steel construction, ensuring durability and easy maintenance.

Powered by gas, it features a large cooking surface that provides even heat distribution, making it ideal for cooking a variety of menu items. The griddle comes with multiple heating zones, allowing for precise temperature control and versatile cooking options.

One of the standout features of the Chef’s Deal griddle is its advanced grease management system, which makes cleanup efficient and hassle-free. Additionally, the griddle is equipped with adjustable legs for leveling and insulated handles for safety.

For those looking for the best in commercial griddles, the Chef’s Deal 36-inch Commercial Griddle is a fantastic investment. You can find more information and purchase it directly from Chef’s Deal.

How to Choose the Best Commercial Griddle for Your Food Truck

With so many options available, choosing the best commercial griddle for your food truck can be overwhelming. Here are some steps to help you make an informed decision:

Assess Your Needs

Start by assessing your needs. Consider the type of food you’ll be cooking, the volume of customers you expect, and the space available in your food truck. This will help you determine the size and features you need in a griddle.

Set a Budget

Commercial griddles can vary widely in price. Set a budget based on what you can afford and what features are most important to you. Keep in mind that a griddle is an investment, so it’s worth spending a bit more for a high-quality model that will last.

Read Reviews

Before making a purchase, read reviews from other food truck owners. This can give you a good idea of the griddle’s performance, durability, and any potential issues. Look for reviews from owners who have similar needs to yours.

Consider Warranty and Support

A good warranty and customer support can provide peace of mind. Look for griddles that come with a comprehensive warranty and responsive customer support. This can be particularly important if you’re new to the food truck business and may need assistance with setup or troubleshooting.

Maintaining Your Commercial Griddle

Once you’ve chosen the perfect griddle for your food truck, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure longevity and performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your commercial griddle:

Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning is essential to keep your griddle in top condition. Clean the cooking surface after each use to remove food residue and grease. Use a griddle scraper and hot water for tough spots. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.

Inspect and Maintain

Inspect your griddle regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Check the heating elements, controls, and gas lines for any issues. Replace any worn-out parts promptly to prevent further damage.

Store Properly

When not in use, store your griddle properly to protect it from dust and moisture. Cover the griddle with a protective cover and store it in a dry, cool place. If you’re using a propane griddle, make sure to disconnect the propane tank and store it safely.

Tips for Cooking on a Commercial Griddle

Cooking on a commercial griddle can be a bit different from cooking on a traditional stove or oven. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your griddle:

Preheat Properly

Preheating your griddle is crucial for even cooking. Turn on the griddle and let it heat up for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This ensures that the cooking surface is hot and ready to go.

Use the Right Tools

Use the right tools for cooking on a griddle. Spatulas, scrapers, and tongs are essential for flipping and moving food around. Make sure your tools are heat-resistant and durable.

Control Temperature

Temperature control is key to successful griddle cooking. Use the temperature controls to adjust the heat as needed. Keep an eye on the food to prevent burning or undercooking.

Clean As You Go

Cleaning as you go can save you time and effort. Wipe down the griddle surface between batches to remove food residue and grease. This helps maintain a clean cooking surface and prevents flavors from mixing.

Conclusion

Choosing the best commercial griddle for your food truck is a crucial decision that can impact your business’s success. By considering the key features, assessing your needs, and maintaining your griddle properly, you can ensure that you have the right equipment to serve delicious food to your customers.

Remember, a griddle is an investment, so it’s worth taking the time to research and choose the best option for your needs. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your existing equipment, a high-quality commercial griddle can make all the difference in your food truck operation.

FAQ

Q: What is the best size for a commercial griddle in a food truck?
A: The best size for a commercial griddle in a food truck depends on your menu and the volume of customers you expect. A 36-inch griddle is often a good balance between size and cooking capacity for most food trucks.

Q: How do I clean a commercial griddle?
A: To clean a commercial griddle, use a griddle scraper and hot water to remove food residue and grease. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. Clean the griddle after each use to maintain its performance.

Q: What is the best power source for a food truck griddle?
A: The best power source for a food truck griddle depends on your setup. Gas griddles are popular for their quick heat-up times and even cooking, but they require a gas hookup. Electric griddles are easier to set up and use, while propane griddles are portable and can be used almost anywhere.

Q: How long should I preheat my commercial griddle?
A: You should preheat your commercial griddle for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This ensures that the cooking surface is hot and ready to go, providing even heat distribution for your food.

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@article{best-commercial-griddles-for-food-trucks-in-2025,
    title   = {Best Commercial Griddles for Food Trucks in 2025},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/best-commercial-griddles-for-food-trucks/}
}