Blackstone 1883: A Compact Heavy Duty Flat Top Griddle Grill Station Review

Published on Friday, October 27, 2023
Blackstone 1883 Gas Hood & Side Shelves Heavy Duty Flat Top Griddle Grill Station

Introduction

The Blackstone 1883 Gas Hood & Side Shelves Heavy Duty Flat Top Griddle Grill Station is more than just a mouthful of a name—it’s a statement of what outdoor cooking can be when you have the right equipment by your side. This grill station isn’t just a one-trick pony; it's a versatile cooking companion ready to tackle whatever culinary challenges you throw its way. Whether you're planning a camping adventure with friends or hosting a Sunday brunch in your backyard, this grill is designed to perform.


The charm of the Blackstone 1883 isn’t just in its heavy-duty build but in the way it seamlessly fits into various outdoor scenarios. Tailgating parties become more exciting when you can grill up a storm in no time. And those impromptu home parties? They are a breeze with this grill station that’s ready to roll at a moment’s notice. Its compact yet robust design is like having a portable kitchen ready to serve you wherever you go. The Blackstone 1883 isn’t just a grill; it's an invitation to explore the world of outdoor cooking without limitations.


Specifications

When it comes to specifications, the Blackstone 1883 packs a punch. With dimensions measuring 32.7 inches x 21.7 inches x 17.7 inches, and a grill surface area that extends to 53 inches max, you’ve got ample space to cook up a feast. The heavy-duty build weighs in at 108lbs, making it a sturdy piece of equipment that’s built to last. It's fueled by propane gas, which makes setting it up a breeze, especially when you're out in the wild.


The ‘plug and play’ propane functionality is a noteworthy feature, allowing for a hassle-free setup. The grill comes with two burners, giving you the flexibility to cook multiple items at once. The foldable legs and side shelves are not just added features; they are a testament to the thoughtful design aimed at making your grilling experience as convenient as possible. The Blackstone 1883 isn’t just about grilling; it’s about grilling with ease and style.


Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up the Blackstone 1883 is as easy as flipping a pancake. The foldable legs spring into action with minimal effort, ready to provide a sturdy base for your culinary adventures. The side shelves unfold to give you that much-needed space for your ingredients and utensils. And when it’s time to fire up the grill, the ‘plug and play’ propane functionality ensures you’re only minutes away from grilling. The simplicity of the setup process is a nod to the user-friendly design Blackstone has embraced.

Once set up, using the Blackstone 1883 is a dream. The grill heats up quickly, and the wide cooking surface beckons you to explore and experiment. Whether you’re searing steaks, grilling vegetables, or even making pancakes, the Blackstone 1883 responds with enthusiasm. The ease of use extends to cleaning as well, which is often a dreaded chore post a grilling session. However, with the fat/drip tray, cleaning is no longer a Herculean task. This grill station is not just about cooking; it’s about enjoying the entire process, from setup to cleaning up, making every grilling session a delightful experience.


Cooking Capacity

The Blackstone 1883 is a maestro when it comes to managing a variety of foods simultaneously. The extendable grill area is nothing short of a stage where you can conduct your culinary orchestra. Whether it's a variety of meats, a rainbow of vegetables, or a medley of both, this grill station has got you covered. With the ability to cater to up to ten people at once, you're not just cooking; you're hosting feasts wherever you go.


The two burners are like the diligent sous chefs, ever-ready to assist whether you're simmering, searing, or sautéing. The griddle is where the magic happens. From the early morning aroma of pancakes and eggs to the evening’s grilled delights, the griddle is ready to perform. The Blackstone 1883 doesn't just grill; it brings people together over delicious meals, making every gathering a memorable one.


Versatility

The word "versatile" might as well be the middle name of the Blackstone 1883 Griddle Grill Station. Whether you're craving a breakfast spread, a hearty lunch, or a grilled dinner, this grill is up for the task. The array of foods you can cook on this grill is staggering—meats, fish, vegetables, and even a humble toast, the Blackstone 1883 handles them with aplomb.


The griddle is the heart of this grill station, offering a vast canvas for your culinary creations. Its impressive size and even heating make it ideal for cooking different types of foods simultaneously without a hitch. The Blackstone 1883 erases the boundaries between a kitchen stove and an outdoor grill, bringing forth a multi-functional marvel that’s ready to serve at your behest.


Added Features

The Blackstone 1883 isn’t just a brute force grilling machine; it’s a thoughtful companion ready to make your grilling journey as smooth as possible. The foldable legs and side shelves are more than just conveniences; they are your allies in the wild or the backyard, providing stability and space. The side shelves are like your sous chefs, holding the essentials as you whip up a grilling storm.


Then there’s the protective cover, an optional but worthy addition that shields your grill from the whims of the weather, ensuring it stays ready for action anytime. The fat/drip tray is another unsung hero, diligently catching the drippings, making cleanup a breeze. These added features aren’t just about grilling; they are about grilling with a peace of mind, knowing that the Blackstone 1883 is designed to cater to the practical needs of a grill enthusiast.


Performance

A grill’s performance is the make-or-break factor for any outdoor cooking enthusiast, and the Blackstone 1883 doesn’t disappoint. The temperature control is intuitive, making it easy to find the sweet spot for each dish you’re cooking. The even heat distribution across the griddle allows for consistent cooking, a feature that is often overlooked but crucial for that perfect sear or gentle simmer.


Although a few users mentioned a desire for better temperature control, the majority found the Blackstone 1883 to excel in delivering a reliable and even cooking surface. The ability to manage different foods on the griddle at the same time without having to stagger the cooking process is a testament to its performance. It's not just a grill; it’s a reliable partner in your outdoor culinary quests.


Maintenance

The thought of cleaning up post a grilling session is often a deterrent for many, but with the Blackstone 1883, maintenance is a breeze. The fat/drip tray is a boon, catching all the runoff, making cleanup straightforward. Moreover, the griddle’s surface is easy to wipe down, getting you out of the cleaning chore and back to the party in no time.


Long-term care is equally uncomplicated. The sturdy build and quality materials ensure that with a little care, the Blackstone 1883 will serve you faithfully for years to come. It’s not just about the ease of cleaning post-cooking; it’s about the minimal maintenance that allows you to focus on what you love—grilling.


Accessories

Blackstone offers a range of accessories to complement your 1883 Griddle Grill Station experience. While the grill itself is a complete package, the accessories like the protective cover, griddle kits, and hardcover allow you to customize your setup. They not only enhance your grilling experience but provide an avenue to explore and experiment.


Whether it’s the protective cover shielding your grill or the hardcover providing a clean and safe storage solution, these accessories are designed to augment your grilling journey. The Blackstone 1883 is not just a standalone grill; it’s the start of a grilling ecosystem ready to adapt to your cooking adventures.


Conclusion

The Blackstone 1883 Gas Hood & Side Shelves Heavy Duty Flat Top Griddle Grill Station is more than just a piece of outdoor cooking equipment. It’s a statement of what modern, convenient, and versatile grilling can be. The thoughtful design, coupled with practical features and a sturdy build, makes it a worthy companion for any outdoor cooking aficionado.


The ease of setup, the vast cooking surface, and the reliable performance are just the tip of the iceberg. The Blackstone 1883 invites you to delve deeper into the world of grilling, promising a rewarding experience with every use. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or someone starting on their grilling journey, the Blackstone 1883 is a grill station that deserves a spot in your outdoor cooking arsenal.