Finding the best 24 inch commercial griddles for food trucks involves balancing power, size, and ease of use. The Commercial Gas Griddle with 60,000 BTU stands out as the overall top choice for its reliable performance and robust build. The Atosa CookRite ATMG-24 offers excellent value with its sturdy design and straightforward controls, while the Kratos Electric Griddle is ideal for those seeking electric convenience with high heat capacity. Each option presents tradeoffs: gas models tend to be more powerful but require more maintenance, while electric models are cleaner but may have limited capacity. Continue reading for a detailed comparison that helps you find the best fit for your food truck needs.
Key Takeaways
- Gas-powered griddles generally deliver higher heat output, making them better suited for high-volume cooking in food trucks.
- Electric models tend to be more compact and easier to maintain, but may lack the same power as gas options.
- Dual-burner models provide flexibility for different cooking zones, which is advantageous for diverse menu items.
- Build quality and ease of cleaning significantly impact long-term usability, especially in busy food truck environments.
- Price varies widely depending on features like BTU output, number of burners, and material quality, so balancing budget with needs is essential.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Commercial Gas Griddle – 24″ Countertop Griddle. 60,000 BTU Flat Top Griddle, Natural Gas (NG) / Propane, CSA Certified
This gas griddle stands out for its high 60,000 BTU output and dual-fuel capability, making it a top pick for food trucks needing reliable, versatile heat. Compared with the Kratos 24″ Commercial Gas Hot Plate, it offers a larger cooking surface and zoned controls, allowing multiple dishes to cook simultaneously with precise heat zones. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability and ease of cleaning, but the high power also means it consumes more gas and may require professional installation. The built-in pressure regulator and safety certifications add peace of mind in busy environments. This model is best suited to operators who need robust heat output and flexibility between natural gas and propane, but it might be overkill for smaller or less intense operations.
Pros:- 60,000 BTU for quick, consistent heating
- Dual-fuel compatibility offers flexible fuel options
- CSA-certified for safety and reliable operation
- Large 24 x 20.7-inch cooking surface with zone controls
Cons:- Higher power consumption increases operational costs
- Heavier and bulkier, requiring sturdy installation and space
Best for: Food truck operators who prioritize high power output and fuel flexibility in a durable, easy-to-clean design.
Not ideal for: Small food trucks with limited space or those seeking a lower-cost, less powerful griddle option.
- BTU Output:60,000
- Fuel Type:Natural Gas / Propane
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Cooking Surface:24 x 20.7 inches
- Certification:CSA Certified
- Power:Not specified
Bottom line: This model is perfect for food trucks needing powerful, flexible cooking with durable stainless steel construction, but its size and power may be more than necessary for casual operators.
Atosa CookRite ATMG-24 24″ Countertop Griddle | Flat Top Grill Hot Plate with Standby Pilots and Grease Drawer for Food Truck | Manual Controlled, Stainless Steel, 1 Burner 60,000 BTU, Liquid Propane
The Atosa CookRite ATMG-24 offers a straightforward, reliable 60,000 BTU gas power in a sleek stainless steel package, making it ideal for food trucks wanting simplicity and durability. Unlike the Kratos 29Y-004 with electric controls, this model uses manual controls, which can be more responsive for seasoned operators but may be less precise for beginners. Its stainless steel surface is easy to clean, and adjustable legs help achieve the perfect height. The grease drawer and standby pilots contribute to safety and convenience, though the single burner limits multitasking for complex menus. It’s best suited to operators seeking a cost-effective, easy-to-maintain griddle with proven power, but less ideal for those needing multiple heat zones or electric controls.
Pros:- Stainless steel construction for durability and easy cleaning
- High 60,000 BTU power for quick heating
- Adjustable legs for ergonomic setup
- Includes grease drawer and standby pilot for safety
Cons:- Single burner limits cooking versatility
- Manual controls may be less precise for delicate dishes
Best for: Food truck owners who prefer a simple, robust gas griddle with straightforward controls and low maintenance.
Not ideal for: Operators who need multiple cooking zones or digital temperature controls for precise cooking.
- BTU Output:60,000
- Fuel Type:Liquid Propane
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Cooking Surface:24 inches wide
- Controls:Manual
- Additional Features:Grease drawer, standby pilots
Bottom line: This griddle delivers reliable power with a simple design, making it perfect for operators wanting efficiency without complexity, but it may lack the multitasking capacity of electric models.
Kratos 24″ Commercial Electric Countertop Griddle, Flat Top Stainless Steel Grill for Restaurants, 208/240V, 2675-3560 Watts (29M-006)
Compared with the gas-powered options like the Kratos 29Y-004, the electric 29M-006 offers precise thermostatic controls, making it ideal for operators who need consistent, delicate temperature adjustments. Its stainless steel build ensures durability, and the 29.5-inch size fits well in smaller food truck setups. However, electric models tend to have slightly lower heat output and may require more time to reach high temperatures, which could slow down busy service periods. The built-in splash guards and adjustable feet add convenience, but electric cords and the need for a power supply limit mobility compared to gas models. This pick is best for operators prioritizing accurate temperature control over raw power, though it may not match gas for high-volume cooking.
Pros:- Precise thermostatic control for delicate dishes
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Compact size suitable for food trucks
- Built-in splash guards for safety
Cons:- Lower maximum heat output compared to gas models
- Requires access to reliable electrical power
Best for: Food trucks and operators who need precise temperature regulation and cleaner operation with electric power.
Not ideal for: High-volume or quick-service operations that rely on maximum heat output and rapid cooking times.
- Voltage:208/240V
- Wattage:2675-3560 Watts
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Cooking Surface:24 inches wide
- Controls:Thermostatic
- Additional Features:Splash guards, adjustable feet
Bottom line: This electric griddle offers accurate temperature control for precision cooking, but may fall short during high-demand periods compared to gas options.
WeChef 24″ Commercial Griddle 3500W Electric Countertop Griddle Non-Stick Flat Stainless Steel Adjustable Restaurant Grill Temperature Control 122 to 572 Degrees
The WeChef 24″ Electric Griddle combines high power with independent zone controls, making it suitable for food trucks that want to cook multiple dishes at different temperatures simultaneously. Its 3500W heating element and 2 control knobs allow for versatile, customized cooking. The non-stick, stainless steel surface simplifies cleaning, and the splash guards add safety. Unlike the electric models with fixed zones, this unit’s independent controls boost efficiency, but the larger size and extra wiring could pose installation challenges in tight spaces. It’s ideal for operators who value flexibility and multitasking, but less so for those with restricted space or seeking simple, single-zone operation.
Pros:- Independent dual temperature zones for multitasking
- High 3500W power for quick heating
- Durable stainless steel with non-stick surface
- Splash guards for safety and easy cleanup
Cons:- Larger footprint may limit space in small trucks
- Complex wiring and setup might require professional installation
Best for: Food truck operators who prioritize multitasking with independent temperature zones and versatile cooking options.
Not ideal for: Limited-space setups or operators seeking a straightforward, single-zone electric griddle.
- Power:3500W
- Temperature Range:122°F to 572°F
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Cooking Surface:24 inches wide
- Controls:Independent zones
- Additional Features:Splash guards
Bottom line: This electric griddle excels at multitasking with zone control, perfect for diverse menu items, but its size and complexity may challenge tight food truck spaces.
Kratos 24″ Wide Commercial Countertop Griddle, Stainless Steel Gas Hot Plate for Restaurants, Manual Controls, 2 Independent Burners, Powerful 60,000 BTU Output (29Y-004)
Unlike the electric options, the Kratos 29Y-004 provides two independent manual burners with a total of 60,000 BTU, making it a strong choice for traditional operators who prefer direct control. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability and ease of cleaning, and the removable drip tray simplifies maintenance. However, manual controls require more attention to temperature management, which may be less convenient for fast-paced service, especially compared to electric models like the WeChef. Its two burners enable multitasking, but the slightly larger size means it may be less suitable for extremely tight spaces. This griddle makes the most sense for operators who value classic gas control and high heat for quick, robust cooking, but less so for those seeking precise digital control or minimal manual adjustments.
Pros:- Two independent burners for multitasking
- 60,000 BTU total for quick, high heat
- Stainless steel construction for durability
- Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
Cons:- Manual controls require active management of temperatures
- Bulkier size may limit tight space installation
Best for: Traditional food truck operators who prefer manual gas control and powerful burners for quick, high-volume cooking.
Not ideal for: Operators seeking precise digital temperature control or minimal manual adjustments in limited space.
- BTU Output:60,000
- Burners:2 independent
- Material:Stainless Steel
- Size:24 inches wide
- Controls:Manual
- Additional Features:Removable drip tray
Bottom line: Ideal for operators who favor manual control and high heat, but it demands active attention during busy service periods.
24″ Commercial Countertop Griddle, 2 Burners Gas Griddle, 60000 BTU Output, Stainless Steel Flat Top Grill Hot Plate with Natural Gas and Propane Conversion Kit for Restaurant, Food Truck
This model stands out for its robust construction, featuring thickened 430 galvanized stainless steel that can withstand long-term high-temperature use—making it well-suited for busy food trucks. Compared with the Kratos 24″ Wide Commercial Gas Charbroiler, which emphasizes high BTU output for grilling, this griddle offers more even heat distribution thanks to its thick, 3/4″ (19mm) plate and dual U-shaped burners, enabling more precise control across different cooking zones. Its adjustable stainless steel legs and removable grease tray simplify setup and cleanup, but the tradeoff is that it’s not as powerful for high-heat grilling, which might matter for those prioritizing searing. This pick makes the most sense for operators who need versatile, consistent cooking with a focus on durability and hygiene, but who don’t require the highest BTU grilling power.
Pros:- Thick, durable stainless steel construction extends lifespan in demanding environments
- Even heat distribution with a 3/4″ thick plate ensures consistent cooking
- Precise temperature control with dual burners allows different cooking zones
- Removable grease tray simplifies cleaning
Cons:- Limited BTU output compared to high-power grilling models, which may slow high-temperature cooking
- No built-in splash guard, increasing potential for spills and splatters
Best for: Food truck operators who want reliable, even heating for a variety of menu items and value durability over maximum BTU output.
Not ideal for: Grill-focused vendors who prioritize maximum heat intensity for searing steaks or burgers, as this model’s heat output is more balanced than explosive.
- BTU Output:60,000 BTU
- Number of Burners:2
- Material:Galvanized stainless steel
- Plate Thickness:3/4 inch (19mm)
- Gas Compatibility:Natural gas and propane (conversion kit included)
- Dimensions:29.5″D x 24″W x 15.25″H
- Weight:138 pounds
- Control Type:Manual burners
- Warranty:Limited warranty
Bottom line: This griddle is ideal for food truck owners who need a durable, versatile cooking surface with precise control, but not necessarily maximum searing power.
Kratos 24″ Wide Commercial Gas Charbroiler, 2 Burner Stainless Steel Gas Radiant Charbroiler for Restaurants, 70,000 BTU Output Countertop Grill
This pick excels in high-heat grilling, boasting a total of 70,000 BTU across two burners, making it a strong choice for operators who prioritize searing and quick cooking. Unlike the CHUMART countertop griddle, which offers more precise zone control and even heating, the Kratos charbroiler’s radiant burners deliver intense, direct heat ideal for grilling meats and vegetables. Its heavy-duty cast iron grates are removable for easy cleaning, and the unit is field convertible from natural gas to LP, adding flexibility for different setups. The main tradeoff is that it’s less suited for delicate stir-frying or multi-stage cooking, as the focus is on high-temperature grilling. This model makes the most sense for vendors who need maximum heat for grilling meat, with less concern for even multi-zone cooking.
Pros:- Powerful 70,000 BTU output for rapid high-heat grilling
- Heavy-duty stainless steel construction ensures durability
- Removable cast iron grates facilitate cleaning and maintenance
- Field convertible from natural gas to LP for flexible installation
Cons:- Less control over precise temperature zones, limiting versatility for delicate tasks
- Primarily designed for grilling, so not suitable for stir-frying or multi-purpose cooking
Best for: Food truck operators whose primary focus is high-temperature grilling, searing, and quick service, especially for meat and vegetables.
Not ideal for: Operators who need a more versatile cooking surface for stir-frying or multi-style menu items, as this unit is optimized for grilling rather than multi-zone cooking.
- BTU Output:70,000 BTU
- Number of Burners:2
- Material:Stainless steel
- Grate Type:Removable cast iron
- Gas Compatibility:Field convertible to LP
- Dimensions:29.5″D x 24″W x 15.25″H
- Weight:138 pounds
- Control Type:Manual burners
- Warranty:1-year limited
Bottom line: This charbroiler is perfect for food trucks that require intense heat for grilling and searing, but less suited for versatile or multi-zone cooking needs.
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, durability, ease of use, and value for food truck operators. Priority was given to models with sufficient power output—specifically, BTU ratings above 60,000—and those with features suited to mobile cooking, such as portability and straightforward controls. We also evaluated build quality, safety certifications, and user feedback to ensure each option can withstand the rigors of daily food truck use. The ranking reflects a balance of power, usability, and cost-effectiveness, helping operators choose equipment that fits their specific cooking volume and menu needs.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 24 Inch Commercial Griddles For Food Trucks
Choosing the right 24 inch commercial griddle for a food truck involves understanding several key factors. Beyond just capacity and power, considerations like ease of cleaning, fuel type, and control mechanisms impact daily operations. Making the wrong choice can lead to inefficiencies or higher maintenance costs, so it’s important to evaluate these elements carefully to find a model that aligns with your cooking volume, menu complexity, and mobility requirements.Power and Heat Output
Power, measured in BTU for gas models and watts for electric, directly influences cooking speed and consistency. Higher BTU ratings mean faster heat-up times and better temperature control, which is vital during busy service periods. However, more powerful units can consume more fuel or electricity and may require special hookups. For food trucks, balancing sufficient power with fuel efficiency is key to avoiding operational bottlenecks or unexpected costs.
Fuel Type and Convenience
Gas models, whether natural gas or propane, tend to offer higher heat output and greater flexibility for outdoor use. They also require a reliable fuel supply and proper ventilation. Electric griddles are cleaner and easier to install, especially in environments with limited space or ventilation constraints, but may struggle with sustained high-volume cooking. Consider your truck’s existing setup, local regulations, and your menu demands when choosing between gas and electric options.
Size, Portability, and Setup
While a 24-inch width provides ample cooking surface, the overall size and weight of the unit impact mobility and installation. Lighter, compact models are easier to transport and set up but might sacrifice some power or features. Heavy-duty units with sturdy casters and compact footprints are usually more durable and stable, but ensure they do not hinder the quick setup and breakdown typical in food truck operations.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Frequent cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene and prolong equipment life. Look for models with removable grease drawers, smooth surfaces, and minimal crevices that trap debris. Electric models often offer non-stick surfaces that simplify cleaning, but gas units with stainless steel surfaces are also straightforward to wipe down. Investing in models with accessible parts reduces downtime during busy service hours, which is crucial for food trucks.
Additional Features and Controls
Precise temperature controls, independent burners, and safety certifications add to a griddle’s usability and safety. Manual controls are more durable and straightforward, while digital interfaces offer finer temperature adjustments. Dual burners or zone heating allow for multiple cooking styles simultaneously, which can boost efficiency. Prioritize features that match your menu and workflow, but beware of overly complex controls that might slow down service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 24 inch griddle in a small food truck?
Yes, a 24 inch griddle is generally suitable for small to medium-sized food trucks, especially if mobility and quick setup are priorities. Its size strikes a balance between cooking capacity and portability, making it a popular choice for mobile operations. However, ensure your truck’s interior space can accommodate the unit comfortably, including clearance for ventilation and safety. Also, consider the weight and power requirements to avoid overloading your setup.
Should I choose a gas or electric griddle for my food truck?
This decision largely depends on your existing setup and menu needs. Gas griddles typically offer higher power and faster heating, which is advantageous during busy service hours. They also work well outdoors or in trucks with proper ventilation. Electric models are cleaner, easier to install, and require less maintenance, making them ideal for trucks with limited ventilation or if you prefer a quieter operation. Consider your local regulations, power supply, and cooking volume when making the choice.
How important is BTU rating when selecting a griddle?
The BTU rating indicates the heat output of a gas griddle, directly affecting how quickly it heats up and maintains temperature. Higher BTUs generally mean better performance for high-volume cooking, ensuring consistent results and faster service. However, excessively high BTUs can lead to energy waste and uneven heating if not managed properly. Strive for a balance between power and control, especially in a mobile setting where fuel efficiency matters.
What features should I look for to make cleaning easier?
Look for models with removable grease traps, smooth stainless steel surfaces, and accessible burner components. Electric models often feature non-stick surfaces that simplify cleanup, while gas units with well-designed grease management systems reduce residue buildup. Choosing equipment with minimal crevices and easy-to-reach parts reduces cleaning time, which is essential in the fast-paced environment of a food truck. Regular maintenance and easy cleaning features extend the lifespan of your griddle and keep it functioning optimally.
Is a dual-burner griddle worth it for a food truck?
Absolutely, dual-burner models provide the flexibility to cook different menu items at varying temperatures simultaneously, which enhances efficiency during busy hours. They also allow for better heat distribution and zone control, making it easier to multitask. However, they tend to be larger and more expensive, so ensure your truck has enough space and that your menu benefits from this added functionality. For operators with diverse offerings, a dual-burner griddle can be a significant productivity booster.
