Who doesn't love a grilled and sizzled culinary delight? Commercial chargrills and charbroilers are the key to many a mouthwatering restaurant dish. What truly sets these bad boys apart from other cooking equipment is the ability to sear with precision and impart that delicious smokey flavor everyone craves. Chargrills and charbroilers are versatile enough to handle meat, vegetables, and seafood-anything that requires high-heat cooking.
The One You Love to Heat: Size & Burners
At Eleven36, we carry all the commercial charbroilers and grills you need to keep turning out those delicious dishes. We offer standing, modular, and countertop options-no matter what sort of commercial kitchen space you're working with, you'll find a model that fits your flow. Before you buy, it's best to consider the size and options you'll need in a chargrill or charbroiler. We carry models ranging from one to 13 burners for all the firepower you need to satisfy your customers. A big catering operation may require a charbroiler with 12-13 burners all going at once. A small bistro may get by with a much smaller unit. Consider the location and placement of your new chargrill or charbroiler. How can this essential piece of restaurant equipment fit comfortably in your kitchen? Like most commercial kitchens, yours is probably constantly in need of more space. Make sure you consider traffic flow and kitchen layout when you choose. Countertop models require considerably less space than floor models. That said, it's always a good idea to go for as high a capacity as possible to keep up with your customer's demands. Higher capacity means faster food production and faster food production keeps customers (and revenue) steadily coming in the door.
Flame Game: Heat Sources
The next factor in your commercial chargrill or charbroiler choice is the heat source. Which is best? Radiant, lava rock, or woodchips? Well, it all depends on the menu and the end goal. Let's break down the merits of each type of heat.
Radiant Charbroilers
Radiant chargrills and charbroilers rely on burners beneath a series of radiant heat units, often made of metal or ceramic. The radiant units absorb heat and transfer it to the grates of the grill-the result is consistent, even cooking temperatures that are easy to control and adjust. You may miss out on the smokey flavor, but you still get the grill effect and all the benefits of high-heat cooking.
Benefits of Radiant Charbroilers:
- Offer precision and adjustable temperature control.
- Typically, lower maintenance than lava rock or wood chip units.
- Because they produce less smoke, they're versatile-safely use them indoors or out.
Drawbacks of Radiant Chargrills and Charbroilers:
- Less smoke means less smoky flavor as compared to their counterparts.
- The upfront cost may be higher for commercial chargrills and charbroilers (but the ease of use and maintenance can offset the initial investment).
Lava Rock Charbroilers
Lava rock is made from natural porous volcanic rock, so it's a wonderful option for absorbing and distributing heat. The rock sets over burners that warm up and create a high-heat environment that closely mimics open-flame grilling. Dripping food leads to some smoke, so you get an enhanced, grilled flavor too.
Benefits of Lava Rock Chargrills:
- Get authentic grilled flavor with drippings that vaporize upon contact with the hot rocks, resulting in smoke infusing your food.
- Lava rocks are affordable and easy to maintain.
- The high heat produces a smokey-but-neutral flavor compared to wood chips. It enhances but doesn't interfere with the taste of food.
Drawbacks of Lava Rock Charbroilers and Chargrills:
- Lava rocks require regular cleaning to avoid grease buildup. They occasionally need to be replaced to keep the grill clean and safe.
- Heat consistency and temperature control are less precise compared to radiant heating systems, so these units require more careful attention while cooking.
Woodchip Charbroilers
Nothing compares with wood-fired grill flavor. Depending on the type of chips-cedar, hickory, cherry-you can impart different layers of flavor into your foods. A woodchip charbroiler or chargrill uses wood from trees as a heat source, creating small, controlled embers to cook food atop the grilling surface.
Benefits of Woodchip Charbroilers:
- Wood smoke creates a unique, rich, distinct flavor unmatched by other grilling methods.
- Different types of woodchips like pecan, hickory, and mesquite offer different flavor profiles that infuse into the food.
- Wood chips are affordable and easy to obtain.
Drawbacks of Woodchip Chargrills and Charbroilers:
- Wood chip charbroilers and grills are a little more high maintenance as wood must be replenished and cleaned out regularly.
- The increased smoke production limits woodchip grilling to outdoor use unless your kitchen has proper ventilation.
- The odor of smoke is strong and can impact air quality in the kitchen and dining space.
- Controlling the heat and flame levels of woodchip chargrills requires skill and experience.
Fasten Your Heat Belt: Power & Fuel
Fire needs fuel. How does a charbroiler or chargrill heat up? Unlike a backyard or campfire, it requires more than a match and a few logs. There are three power source options for commercial charbroiling and chargrilling: propane, natural gas, and field convertible. Which is best? Let's break it down.
Liquid Propane (LP)
Liquid propane is a great choice for commercial kitchens that don't have access to natural gas lines. Backup LP tanks can be stored safely onsite and transported, making LP a popular choice for mobile kitchens, food trucks, and outdoor setups. Liquid Propane isn't as common in permanent commercial kitchens unless there are specific utility and space concerns.
Benefits of Cooking with Liquid Propane:
- LP is portable, giving you flexibility in kitchen location. LP is ideal for mobile kitchens, remote areas, and food trucks.
- Propane is efficient and offers a consistent high-energy output. It's reliable for high-volume cooking.
Drawbacks of LP Grills and Broilers:
- May require more storage space for propane tanks.
- Propane tends to be more expensive than natural gas.
- Maintenance of fuel tanks also tends to be more costly than alternatives.
- Propane levels must be monitored during food service so you don't run out.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is naturally a common fuel source choice, as most commercial kitchens have access to municipal gas lines. Natural gas is reliable for high volume and high demand. Gas is adjustable and affordable, frequently making it the chefs' preference.
Benefits of Natural Gas:
- Natural gas is accessible in most areas, is less expensive than LP, and is consistent.
- Natural gas is ideal for high volume cooking.
- Many chefs prefer the steady, easy-to-manage fuel source.
- Relatively clean-burning fuel, compared to LP.
Drawbacks of Natural Gas:
- Natural gas requires professional installation, in some cases plumbing, and ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
- Natural gas isn't portable like LP.
- It may not be available in certain locations.
Field Convertible
Want the best of both worlds? Field convertible charbroilers may be your preferred option. Field convertible units are flexible-switch the fuel source between LP and natural gas. This versatility is especially ideal for commercial kitchen operations that change locations and move between different setups.
Benefits of Field Convertible Chargrill Units:
- A commercial chargrill or charbroiler is a versatile piece of kitchen equipment. The flexibility is especially helpful if your business plans to expand or relocate.
- Adapting to different fuel sources can help you save money in the long term.
- You get the best of both options-propane and natural gas.
Drawbacks of Field Convertible Grills:
- Conversion between fuel types requires professional assistance.
- Conversion may require a specialized kit.
- The unit's initial cost can be higher because of the extra flexibility.
The Grill of it All: Chargrill Uses
How do you use a chargrill or charbroiler? Let's count the ways. If your customers want perfectly cooked, savory steaks with those iconic grill marks, then a chargrill is a must-have. Steakhouses and barbecue joints need a reliable chargrill for that lip-smacking, juicy, meaty flavor! Don't neglect your vegetarian customers! A chargrill or charbroiler can help you transform vegetables too. Turn simple sides into colorful star attractions. A chargrill adds delicious caramelization and depth to produce. Even fruit is fantastic when given the chargrill treatment. Of course, we'd be remiss to forget the fish. Seafood is a perfect match for chargrills and charbroils. There's nothing quite like a succulent salmon filet kissed by the intense heat of an open flame. You get that flaky tenderness and aromatic smokiness that you can build a reputation on.
Most commercial chargrills and charbroilers can reach and maintain temperatures between 500_ and 700_. This temperature range lets you cook foods quickly without sacrificing quality. Lock in the juicy, tender exterior beneath a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Countertop charbroilers can still hit the heat, while floor model charbroilers offer the most firepower. Sandwich shops often rely on charbroilers to add finishing touches to menu items. The char-grilled flavor is the perfect choice for flatbreads, pizzas, and other baked goods too. While you might not be known for "fast food," a grill can help food-service establishments offer high-quality dishes quickly and efficiently. Chargrills and charbroilers allow your cooking staff to expand and explore combinations and options. Marinate different cuts of meat, experiment with vegetable-forward main dishes, or grill up some pineapple for a succulent dessert. With unmatched flavors and presentation, chargrills aren't just another appliance but an essential cooking tool for crafting unforgettable meals.
All You Can Heat: Opportunities for Menu Expansion
While chargrills and charbroilers offer plenty of ways to cook meats, seafood, and vegetables on your menu today, what about tomorrow? The versatility and reliability of a commercial chargrill opens up a world of possibilities for menu expansion. Charbroiling and chargrilling are healthy ways to cook food. Grills get high marks from the healthy set because they require very little oil or fat and lock in those juices. Yet, these healthful dishes don't feel like diet or "light" fare. Take vegetables, for example-grilling squash or eggplant can result in a complex, layered main dish, a wonderful base for an appetizer dip, or a fantastic ingredient for soup. Roasting peppers adds depth and brings out the natural sweetness. By expanding your cooking methods to include charcoal grilling and broiling, you'll reach even more customers and build on your reputation for quality food. Commercial chargrills and charbroilers give you endless options for creative menu growth.
So Char, So Good: The Best Chargrill and Charbroiler Brands
At Eleven36, we're proud to carry the top brands in a wide variety of options. Each kitchen is unique and has different requirements, but with Eleven36 you can cook with confidence, having the right tools and equipment for kitchen success. Here are some of the brands we carry in charbroilers and chargrill equipment-these brands have a gold standard reputation for quality and exceptional performance in the industry.
Southbend
Southbend has long been known for reliability and innovation. The Southbend HDC-30 Heavy Duty Counterline, Natural Gas, 30", Charbroiler, and 100,000 BTU model is an excellent example of the brand. The charbroiler was designed for medium- and heavy-duty applications and has five 20,000 BTU stainless steel burners. Get the precise flame you need with manual controls for temperature. Cast iron radiant units and a 3/4" rear gas connection with a pressure regulator keep the heat steady.
American Range
American Range blends tradition with cutting-edge tech. You can see a perfect example in the American Range ADJF-24 Charbroiler, LP Gas, Floor Model Stainless Steel 24.0(W). The freestanding model Charbroiler is a great solution for busy kitchens. With stainless steel construction and four individually controlled radiant burners, it can take the heat of a hectic kitchen. An adjustable grate and separate drip tray makes for easy cleaning and operation.
Vulcan
Vulcan is a standard bearer for power and efficiency in food service. One look at the Vulcan VACB72 72" VACB Series Achiever Restaurant Charbroiler, LP Gas model and you can see why everyone loves the Vulcan brand. This unit is great for high-volume kitchens with 13 heavy-duty cast iron burners with 17,000 BTUs each. The diamond grates create gorgeous grill marks that really seal the deal on presentation.
Our Claim to Flame: Why Choose Eleven36?
Why should you shop with Eleven36? Because we know the industry and carry the highest-quality top brands of kitchen equipment. If you're investing in tools to outfit your commercial kitchen, you want to get long-term solutions that withstand the test of time and the rigors of cooking. Our equipment is reliable, durable, and dependable. Save money with fewer replacements and repairs. Increase your kitchen output with equipment that can keep up with your hard working team. If you're looking for chargrills and charbroilers, look no further than Eleven36. Reach out today with any questions so we can help you fire up the grill and satisfy your customers