Top Grills for Apartment Dwellers

For apartment dwellers, finding the right grill for a small balcony can be a challenge. With limited space and complex rules about what types of grills are allowed, choosing the best option requires some thought.

The good news is that there are great grills made specifically for apartment balconies. Compact propane, electric, and even charcoal grills can allow you to enjoy delicious barbecue without sacrificing safety or your security deposit.

Types of Grills for Apartments

When choosing a grill for an apartment, there are a few options to consider:

Small Propane Grills

Propane grills are a popular choice for apartment balcony barbecuing. Models with small, one-pound propane cylinders are compact and portable while still providing the classic grilling experience.

Look for grills no wider than 2 feet to fit tight spaces. Options like the Weber Q1200 provide 189 square inches of grilling area from a small but mighty grill.

• Portable - Choose a grill with wheels or a carrying handle for easy transport.
• Tabletop - These ultra-compact grills sit directly on a balcony table.

Electric Grills

Electric balcony grills avoid fire risks and ventilation issues altogether. Without combustible fuel, these grills plug directly into an outlet.

Choose between indoor/outdoor models or built-in grill plates for panini presses or indoor contact grilling.

• Indoor/Outdoor - Grill inside or out with adjustable heat.
• Built-in Grill Plates - Compact and perfect for small spaces.

Charcoal Grills

Small charcoal grills are an option if allowed. Look for apartment-friendly features:

• Small & Portable - Lightweight with legs that lock for transport.
• Self-Contained Ash Catcher - Reduces mess and fire risk.

Choosing the Right Grill

When selecting an apartment balcony grill, keep these factors in mind:

Size Constraints

Measure the free space on your balcony for grilling. Apartment balconies average 5 by 10 feet. Compact grills with no more than 2 feet by 2 feet footprints maximize limited room.

Apartment Rules & Regulations

Most apartments prohibit open flame grilling on balconies. Check if propane or electric grills are allowed. Get approval before installing a permanent electric grill.

Grill Features

Look for apartment-friendly features like portability, small fuel containers, and electric power sources:

• Portability - Ensure your grill can easily move to storage when not in use.
• Safety - Electric ignition systems prevent the need for dangerous matches and lighters.

Setting Up Your Balcony Grill

Preparing your small balcony for grilling takes some forethought:

Protecting Surfaces

Safeguard your balcony from errant grease and heat by using:

• Grill Mats - These heat-resistant pads sit beneath the grill.
• Bricks/Tiles - Durable surfaces under the grill prevent damage.

Ventilation

Prevent smoke buildup from charcoal or grease flare-ups with:

• Keeping Doors & Windows Open - Allow airflow to dissipate smoke.
• Using Fans - Strategically placed box or ceiling fans increase ventilation.

Fire Safety

Reduce chances of uncontrolled fires by:

• Having an Extinguisher Nearby - Keep one near the grill just in case.
• Checking for Flammables - Remove plants, decorations, towels before grilling.

Grilling Safely on a Balcony

Exercise caution when grilling in small balcony environments:

Location

Set up your grill away from:

• Walls & Railings - Position the grill towards the center of the balcony.

Supervision

Vigilantly watch the grill to prevent fires. Never leave a balcony grill unattended when in use.

Preventing Smoke Issues

Cut down on problematic smoke by:

• Avoiding Fatty Meats - Lean proteins produce less grease smoke.
• Watching Grill Level - Adjust heat if flare-ups occur.

Top Grills for Apartments

Here are highly rated apartment balcony grills to consider:

Weber Q1200

This propane grill offers 189 square inches of grilling space powered by disposable LP cylinders. It's lightweight, easy to move, and has foldable work tables.

George Foreman 15-Serving

An extra-large 240 square inch sloped grilling surface avoids flare-ups. This versatile electric grill sears meat and leaves appealing grill marks.

PK Grills Original PKO-116

Exceptional ventilation comes from this unit's aluminum construction. It's among the best for apartment charcoal grilling with no flare-ups.

Hamilton Beach 25361

This indoor electric grill provides 118 square inches of nonstick grilling surface. The adjustable temperature knob tailors heat levels.

Making the Most of Small Balcony Grilling

While apartment balcony space is limited, you can still grill flavorful barbecue. Follow these tips:

Choosing Smaller Cuts

Opt for bone-in chicken pieces, pre-cut kebab meat, shrimp, steak tips or single burgers. Avoid large, hard-to-maneuver cuts of meat.

Utilizing Kabobs & Skewers

Thread meats and vegetables on skewers for easy grilling. Kabobs maximize space when cooking for multiple people.

Quality tools like spatulas, tongs, and brushes make grilling on a small surface easier. Look for longer handles and multiple tool heads.

With some savvy selection and setup, apartment dwellers can enjoy grilling's smoky joys. Compact grills designed for balconies allow urban residents the grilled flavor they crave without sparking concern from buildings over outdoor cooking. Grill manufacturers created electric, propane and tailored charcoal units perfect for patios and balconies. They open up small footprint grilling so those in apartments can have a taste of the summer barbecue lifestyle.

The options shown demonstrate that a premium grill suited to apartment living is within reach. Yes, selecting the right grill for an apartment balcony requires some judgment calls based on space, building rules, and safety. But the compromise pays dividends in delicious grilled foods all summer without question. So enjoy the smoky essence of grilled meats to your heart's content from the comfort of your apartment balcony.