For enthusiasts of classic barbecue, an old school charcoal grill offers the essential smoky flavor that modern grills often miss. This guide provides detailed insights into some of the best options available, combining traditional design with practical features for outdoor grilling, camping, and patio parties. Below is a summary table featuring the selected top charcoal grills for easy comparison.
| Grill | Brand | Cooking Surface | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | Royal Gourmet | 811 sq. in. | Offset smoker, adjustable charcoal pan, easy ash removal |
| Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Shelf | Kendane | ~500 sq. in. | Adjustable charcoal pan, lid thermometer, enamel grates |
| Gas One 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill | Gas One | 150 sq. in. | 3-point locking lid, dual ventilation system, compact design |
| Uten Stainless Steel Folding Portable Charcoal Grill | Uten | Not Specified | Foldable, rust-resistant steel, includes BBQ tool kits |
| Ash & Ember Jumbo Park-Style Charcoal Grill | TITAN GREAT OUTDOORS | 384 sq. in. | In-ground stability, adjustable grate height, spring handles |
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30″ BBQ Charcoal Grill with Offset Smoker
The Royal Gourmet CC1830S stands out with its large 811 square inch cooking surface, including a 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grate, a chrome-plated warming rack, and a 184 sq. in. offset smoker. This design seamlessly blends a charcoal grill with an offset smoker to infuse smoky flavors. Its adjustable two-level charcoal pan holds up to 4.4 pounds of coal, allowing precise temperature control. An easy-to-access side door simplifies adding charcoal and cleaning ashes. Additionally, the air vent quickly stokes the fire, enhancing fuel efficiency and heat management, making it ideal for camping and extended cookouts.
Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Shelf
The Kendane Barrel Charcoal Grill offers a generous cooking area of nearly 500 sq. in., with porcelain-enameled steel wire grates and a chrome-plated warming rack. It comfortably fits up to 12 burgers, perfect for family gatherings and backyard parties. Made with enamel-coated grates, it combines durability and easy cleaning. This grill features a lid-mounted thermometer for precise temperature monitoring and a 4-level height-adjustable charcoal pan accommodating up to 6.6 pounds of charcoal. Its adjustable chimney enhances airflow, enabling fine-tuned heat control while grilling various meats and vegetables.
Gas One 14-Inch Portable Barbecue Grill with Locking Lid
The Gas One 14-Inch Portable Grill suits those needing a compact yet efficient grill for backyard, camping, or boating. Its 150 sq. in. cooking surface is ideal for steaks, vegetables, and smaller meals. The 3-point locking lid retains heat for even cooking and doubles as a secure carrying case for transport. A dual ventilation system ensures a steady airflow to keep charcoal burning at optimal temperatures. Its portability combined with superior heat distribution makes it a practical choice for small outdoor grilling needs.
Uten Stainless Steel Folding Portable Charcoal Grill
The Uten Folding Portable Grill is designed for easy transportation and outdoor versatility. Its foldable legs and comfortable handles support effortless carrying and compact storage, perfect for camping, tailgating, or picnics. Constructed from 430 rust-resistant stainless steel, it is both heat-resistant and durable without deformation. Dual air vents ensure an even heat distribution, while non-slip rubber feet provide stability on various terrains. Included accessories such as tongs and two BBQ wire mesh panels enhance convenience for on-the-go grilling.
Ash & Ember Jumbo Park-Style Charcoal Grill with Adjustable Grate
The Ash & Ember Park-Style Grill is a robust, in-ground charcoal grill featuring a 22.5″ by 16.5″ cooking grate for larger outdoor gatherings. Its park-style design ensures maximum stability when anchored, making it ideal for backyard barbecues or campsites. Four adjustable grate heights enable personalized heat settings to grill meats or vegetables to perfection. Spring-loaded handles remain cool to the touch for safer handling. This grill is praised for its classic look combined with practical functionality for medium-to-large scale cookouts.
Buying Guide for Old School Charcoal Grills
Selecting the right old school charcoal grill depends on various factors. The following considerations will help you choose a grill suited for your outdoor cooking preferences and lifestyle.
1. Cooking Surface Size
Consider how much food you typically cook. Large cooking surfaces like the Royal Gourmet CC1830S offer over 800 sq. in., allowing you to grill for large groups. Smaller grills such as the Gas One 14-inch model provide enough space for intimate meals or camping trips.
2. Portability and Storage
If you plan to move your grill often, portability is crucial. Folding designs like the Uten grill or compact locking lid models ensure easier transportation and storage. Bulkier grills may be better suited for permanent backyard setups.
3. Heat Control Features
Precise heat management impacts grilling results. Features like adjustable charcoal pans, air vents, and built-in thermometers help maintain desired temperatures. Multiple charcoal levels, as seen with Kendane and Ash & Ember grills, increase versatility.
4. Material Durability and Maintenance
Look for grills made with rust-resistant steel or porcelain-enameled components to withstand outdoor conditions. Easy ash cleanup systems and removable parts can save time and prolong grill lifespan.
5. Additional Functionalities
Extras such as offset smokers, warming racks, and tool storage add convenience. Offset smokers allow smoking alongside traditional grilling for complex flavors, while warming racks keep cooked food hot.
By evaluating these factors, you can pick the best old school charcoal grill that meets your barbecue needs and enhances your outdoor cooking experience.