You fire up the grill, the bacon sizzles, and the pancakes are golden brown. An outdoor flat top grill turns your backyard into a breakfast diner and a burger joint rolled into one. But with so many models on the market, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. That is where we come in. In this guide, we review two outstanding Royal Gourmet griddles to help you find the best outdoor flat top grill for your needs. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a daily cook, we have you covered. For more griddle options, check out our Best Outdoor Griddle for 2026 review.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in an Outdoor Flat Top Grill
Cooking Surface Area
The size of the cooking surface determines how much food you can prepare at once. A larger area means you can cook for a crowd without waiting. Look for a griddle that offers enough square inches to handle your typical meal. For families or small gatherings, around 300 to 400 square inches per side works well. If you often host parties, consider a model with over 700 square inches.
Both Royal Gourmet models we review provide generous cooking space. The combo model offers two separate zones, while the dedicated griddle gives you a single large surface. Think about your cooking style before choosing.
Burner Power and Heat Distribution
BTU ratings tell you how much heat the burners can produce, but even heat distribution matters more. A griddle with multiple independently controlled burners lets you create temperature zones. You can sear steaks on one side while keeping vegetables warm on the other.
Both Royal Gourmet griddles feature four stainless steel burners with high BTU output. This gives you plenty of heat for searing and the ability to adjust each zone separately. If you enjoy smoking meats as well, you might also like our Best Weber Smokers of 2026 guide.
Construction and Durability
An outdoor flat top grill lives through rain, sun, and grease splatters. A well-built griddle with a ceramic coated or pre-seasoned steel surface resists rust and stays nonstick longer. Heavy-duty frames and sturdy side tables add stability while you cook.
The Royal Gourmet GD401C uses a ceramic coated steel flat top that resists oxidation. The GB4000P comes with a pre-seasoned steel griddle that is ready to cook out of the box. Both include covers to protect your investment. For more on durable outdoor cookers, check our best pit boss smoker review.
Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your griddle around the patio or take it camping, look for wheels and foldable side tables. Brakes on the casters keep the grill in place while you cook. Storage hooks and knife strips add convenience.
The GB4000P features collapsible side shelves with hooks and a knife strip, plus two directional wheels and two locking casters. The GD401C has fixed side tables and a grease tray that makes cleanup easy. Think about your space and mobility needs before buying.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best outdoor flat top grill comes down to your cooking style and space. If you want the versatility of a grill and griddle combo with a protective cover included, the Royal Gourmet GD401C 4-Burner Gas Grill is a fantastic all-rounder. If you prefer a dedicated, spacious griddle with foldable shelves and a hard cover for easy storage, the Royal Gourmet GB4000P 4 Burner Propane Gas delivers outstanding performance. Either way, you get Royal Gourmet quality and a great cooking experience for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best outdoor flat top grill for 2026?
The best outdoor flat top grill depends on your needs. For a combo grill and griddle with a cover, the Royal Gourmet GD401C is a top pick. For a large, dedicated griddle with foldable shelves, the GB4000P is excellent. Both offer great value and performance.
How do you clean a flat top grill?
After cooking, scrape off food residue with a flat top scraper while the surface is still warm. Wipe with a paper towel, then apply a thin layer of cooking oil to protect the surface. For deeper cleaning, use a griddle cleaner and a scrub pad. Many models, including the Royal Gourmet griddles, have removable grease trays for easy disposal.
Can you use a flat top grill as a griddle?
Yes, a flat top grill is essentially a griddle. It provides a large, flat cooking surface that heats evenly, perfect for pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, and stir fry. Some models also include a grill grate section for searing marks, like the Royal Gourmet GD401C combo.
What size flat top grill do I need for a family of four?
A cooking surface of around 300 to 400 square inches is usually enough for a family of four. Both Royal Gourmet models offer ample space. For larger gatherings, consider a griddle with over 700 square inches, like the GB4000P. For more tips, read our Best Outdoor Griddle guide.
