Blackstone 36 Inch Omnivore Griddle review versatile outdoor propane grill for all meals

Description

An Outdoor Cooking Marvel: Testing the Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle

Unmatched Cooking Versatility
I’ve used my fair share of outdoor grills and griddles, but the Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle brings an entirely new level of versatility to outdoor cooking. Whether I’m flipping pancakes early in the morning, grilling smash burgers for lunch, or going big with a stir-fry dinner, this griddle handles it all like a champ. It’s the 768 square inches of cooking space that really makes the difference. I’ve cooked for small groups and large gatherings, and this thing doesn’t flinch. The four independently controlled burners let me cook different foods at varying temperatures without any hassle, which is perfect for multitasking.

One of the coolest features I’ve come to appreciate is the Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology. This isn’t just a fancy name—it genuinely improves cooking. The griddle heats up more evenly, which means no annoying cold spots, and the built-in wind guards make outdoor cooking less of a battle on breezy days. Plus, it’s surprisingly fuel-efficient. I noticed I was using less propane compared to other grills I’ve owned.

Sturdy Design and Functional Features
The design is practical and built to last. Powder-coated steel construction not only looks sleek and professional but also feels solid and durable. The folding side shelves are a godsend when it comes to prepping and serving food. I’ve hung my tools on the integrated hooks and even used the built-in paper towel holder more times than I can count. These features may sound small, but they keep the cooking area so much more organized, which is a huge deal during busy cookouts.

Another thing I love is the Blackstone Rear Grease Management System. Let’s face it, cleaning griddles can be a nightmare, but this system is a game-changer. All the grease and food debris get guided to a rear grease cup, making cleanup quick and painless. I’ve spent way less time scrubbing and more time enjoying the food, which is always a win.

Key Benefits

• 768 square inches of cooking space makes it great for both small meals and large gatherings.
• The Omnivore Griddle Plate Technology ensures even heat distribution and better fuel efficiency.
• Four independently controlled burners provide excellent temperature control for multitasking.
• Thoughtful additions like folding side shelves, tool hooks, and a paper towel holder make cooking more convenient.
• The Rear Grease Management System simplifies cleanup significantly.

Areas for Improvement
Despite my overall satisfaction, there are a few shortcomings worth mentioning.

• At 120 pounds, this griddle isn’t the easiest to move around, even with casters.
• It’s a bit bulky, so storage might be tricky if you don’t have ample outdoor space.
• The assembly instructions could be clearer; I had to backtrack a few times while putting it together.

Competitors
When comparing the Blackstone griddle to competing products, a few notable names come to mind. Take the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 600, for example. While it offers a similarly large cooking surface, it lacks the wind guards and advanced heat distribution tech found in the Blackstone. On the other hand, the Weber Q3200 is more portable and compact, but it can’t match the cooking versatility or sheer capacity of the griddle.

What sets the Blackstone apart is its all-around functionality. It feels like a complete outdoor kitchen solution, whereas others often fall into niche categories—either great for grilling or great for portability, but rarely both.

Price Performance
Evaluating the price to quality ratio, I’d say this griddle offers excellent value. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the combination of durability, cooking space, and user-friendly features makes it worth the investment. I’d especially recommend it to anyone who loves hosting outdoor meals or just wants a versatile cooking tool that can handle a variety of dishes. This is the kind of product where you feel like you’re getting your money’s worth with every use.

While the Blackstone 1554 36” Omnivore Griddle isn’t perfect, the positives far outweigh the negatives. It’s an impressive, functional addition to any outdoor cooking setup. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just experimenting with new recipes, this griddle has you covered.

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