Commercial Char Grills

Commercial Char Grills are essential for high-volume kitchens looking to deliver authentic char-grilled flavour with visual appeal. Whether you're outfitting a steakhouse, burger bar, or café, choosing the right commercial-grade char grill can directly impact kitchen performance, consistency, and customer satisfaction.

Explore Atlantic Equipment’s premium range of gas and electric char grills designed for commercial kitchens.

Gas Cooktops

Gas Cooktops

 Induction Cooktops

Induction Cooktops

 Benchtop Griddles

Benchtop Griddles

 Salamanders

Salamanders

 Teppanyaki Grills

Teppanyaki Grills

More About Commercial Char Grills

When shopping for a commercial char grill, it’s crucial to understand the technical distinctions and commercial-grade features that suit your kitchen’s output and configuration.

Types of Commercial Char Grills

  • Gas Char Grills: Preferred for high-heat searing and flame grilling, offering fast recovery times and intense temperatures. Available in natural gas or LPG configurations.
  • Electric Char Grills: Ideal for venues with strict ventilation rules or limited gas access. They provide consistent cooking temperatures but slightly lower searing performance compared to gas.
  • Radiant vs Lava Rock: Radiant models use metal heat diffusers to distribute heat evenly; lava rock types retain and radiate heat, delivering that signature grill flavour with extra smoke and flare.

Installation Considerations

  • Commercial char grills typically require a Type 1 commercial hood system for proper ventilation, especially for gas configurations.
  • Ensure adequate clearance and fire safety compliance. Benchtop models may require heat shields or stand-alone installation.
  • For LPG units, check local compliance on bottle storage and regulator requirements.

Maintenance & Cleaning

  • Daily scraping of grills and removal of grease trays is essential to maintain hygiene and prevent flare-ups.
  • Monthly checks on burners and lava rocks (if applicable) ensure even heat distribution and safe operation.
  • Stainless steel exteriors can be cleaned with commercial degreasers safe for food equipment.

Capacity & Workflow

  • Commercial char grills range in size from 300mm to 1200mm. A 600mm char grill can typically handle 8–10 steaks simultaneously or up to 12 burger patties.
  • Larger grills improve throughput during peak periods, and multiple burner zones allow for controlled cooking across different protein types.

Performance & ROI

  • Char grills offer unique flavour and grill marks that can’t be recreated on flat-top or induction cooktops.
  • Their ability to handle high volumes with consistent results makes them a profitable upgrade for any protein-heavy menu.

WE’RE HERE TO ANSWER

Commercial Char Grills FAQs

What’s the difference between gas and electric commercial char grills?

Gas commercial char grills offer faster heat-up times, higher searing temperatures, and stronger flame control, making them ideal for high-output kitchens. Electric models, while slightly slower to preheat, provide steady, even heat and are better suited for venues where gas usage is restricted or ventilation is limited.

Do commercial char grills require a Type 1 hood or special ventilation?

Yes, most commercial gas char grills require a Type 1 exhaust hood to manage heat, grease-laden vapours, and smoke. Electric char grills may also require ventilation depending on local regulations and the level of usage, but typically demand fewer modifications than gas models.

How do you maintain and clean a commercial char grill for optimum performance?

To maintain your commercial char grill, brush the grates daily with a wire brush, empty the grease trap after each shift, and inspect burners for blockages weekly. Lava rocks should be replaced every 6–12 months depending on use. Monthly preventative maintenance includes checking for gas leaks and calibrating thermostat settings.

How much food can a standard 600mm commercial char grill handle?

A 600mm commercial char grill typically accommodates 8–10 steaks or up to 12 standard burger patties at once. This size is ideal for medium-capacity kitchens that require fast turnover during busy service periods.

Why choose a commercial char grill over a flat-top grill or induction cooktop?

Commercial char grills provide signature grill marks and smoky flavours that flat-tops and induction units can’t replicate. They also allow for simultaneous high-heat searing and direct flame cooking, making them better suited for grilling meats, seafood, and vegetables at scale while enhancing visual plating elements.