Bodum Electric Indoor Table Grill and Griddle, Black

Bodum Electric Indoor Table Grill and Griddle, Black

Doesn't justify its price
The distinguishing feature of this unit, the Bodum Bistro 11133 electric table grill, is that the big plate that heats up is smooth on one side and "ribbed" on the other. The smooth, or griddle, side is for items such as eggs and pancakes and hash browns, whereas the the ribbed, or grill, side is for, say, burgers or steaks or chops, where you want to sear in those pretty and ever-flavorful grill marks that result from the ever-wonderful Maillard Reaction. You choose which side to use by simply flipping the plate over. It's designed so you can't flip it without unplugging the controller. Also, there's a simple mechanical device that prevents you from using the device unless the drip tray is installed.

Both sides of the plate are covered in a non-stick coating, and both sides measure 14-5/8 inches by 9-1/8 inches, or 133.45 square inches, which is on the small side if you're cooking for six. A similar product I own, made by Presto, measures 14-1/4 by 18-3/4, or 267.19...

FANTASTIC grill but a bit overpriced
This was a tough review to write. On the one hand, my Mom LOVED this grill. On the other hand, it is WAY over priced for what you get, at retail, or even with Amazon's discount.

The idea is great: an indoor grill that has a griddle on one side and a traditional grooved grill on the other. And, it is incredibly easy to switch between the two plates. You quite literally lift and flip (see my pictures). The grill plate cannot be flipped while plugged in, which decreases the chance of trying to flip while it's still hot. And, it was easy to clean, by hand, and in the dishwasher - we tried both. The non-stick surface is exactly that, and while a larger surface would have been nice, this also fits comfortably on a countertop without taking up too much room. It's not too heavy either, so it can be moved around with ease. Plus, it comes in several colors to go with most any kitchen.

We tried several foods on this. My mom grilled T-Bones, Mahi Mahi, scallops and...

It does the job, but not overly impressed.
I got this and thought, "Oh, cool, one appliance for two jobs, and should be easy to clean up instead." Ok, it does the job of two appliances semi-ok, but the cleanup is iffy and you need to pay attention to what you're thinking about cooking on it. Though the description emphasizes cooking right at the table, I wouldn't advise it unless you're going to cook something that is splatter free. I wouldn't try the suggested bacon, except in the case where you want everyone at the table coated in grease droplets. Pancakes, eggs, veggies, and anything that doesn't normally send hot oil particles flying are ok. Cooking up some ground beef, sausages, bacon, and the like, is not so good an idea due to their fat content. Even the manual points out that you should be using "quality meat" with this grill.

While you might be thinking, "I can just turn the heat down and it will be ok," let me warn you, there is no temperature guide on this thing. The temperature control dial...

There's just something about cooking right there on the dining table together with all the guests. It certainly creates more of a communal feeling than when the host is stuck in the kitchen while the guests are having a good time in the living room. This versatile electric table grill is more like two grills in one. The even side of the grill is perfect for pancakes, crepes and bacon. The wavy side cooks meats, fish and vegetables to perfection. It is so easy to switch between surfaces since the grill and griddle plate is one solid piece- just pick it up and flip it over to change sides. Both surfaces are made from non-stick coated aluminum, the handles from heat-resistant plastics. The table grill can be set to six temperatures, and it comes with a double-end heat-resistant spatula-one for each grilling surface. The powerful 1500 to 1800-watt heating element heats evenly and makes grilling a breeze. Whether your are making steaks, grilled cheese sandwiches, or pancakes, the large surface leaves plenty of room for cooking. The grill itself, as well as the drip pan underneath it is dishwasher safe. With the electric grill being perfect for cooking breakfast, lunch, and dinner-why even own a stove, is the only remaining question. Available in black, red, green and orange.

• Powerful 1800-watt heating element
• Non-Stick grill and griddle cooking plate
• Dishwasher safe cooking plate
• Large 14-3/4-Inch by 9-1/4-Inch cooking surface
• Adjustable temperature setting