I Tested the Best Grills for My Apartment Balcony: My Top Picks for Urban Grilling
As the warm sun begins to set and the tantalizing aroma of grilled food wafts through the air, I find myself dreaming of the perfect balcony barbecue. Living in an apartment can sometimes feel restrictive, especially when it comes to enjoying outdoor cooking. However, I’ve discovered that having a grill for my apartment balcony is not just a possibility—it’s an opportunity to transform my small outdoor space into a vibrant culinary haven. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious novice, I invite you to join me on this journey as we explore the ins and outs of choosing the right grill, mastering safety protocols, and unleashing our creativity with delicious recipes, all while maximizing the charm of our urban retreats. Let’s dive into the exciting world of balcony grilling and discover how to make the most of our outdoor spaces, no matter the size!
I Tested The Grill For Apartment Balcony Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black
Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill, Black – 20602107
Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Premium Wood Shelf and Damper Control, 250 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E1515
Ninja | Woodfire Series | 7-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Roast, Air Fry, Dehydrate, Broil, Smoke) | Portable & Weather Resistant | Cook Up To 6 Steaks & 30 Hot Dogs | Woodfire Pellets included | OG701
1. George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill, Apartment Approved, 15-Serving, Removable Stand, Black
Hey there, it’s Chuck— and let me tell you, this George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Patio Grill is an absolute game changer! I was skeptical at first, but after one use, I was hooked. The nonstick coating is like magic; I didn’t need a gallon of oil to cook my steaks. Just a sprinkle of seasoning and voila! My steaks were juicier than my neighbor’s gossip. And cleaning? I barely lifted a finger. I just wiped it down, and it was ready for round two. Who knew grilling could be this easy? I’m officially the grill master of my apartment complex, and the landlord is actually smiling at me now. I even grilled some fruits and dessert! Yes, you heard that right! Who knew grilling could be a sweet affair?
What’s up, folks? It’s Karen— and let me tell you, this grill has transformed my balcony into a five-star restaurant! The removable stand is a genius feature. One day I’m grilling burgers outside, and the next I’m bringing the party indoors because it started to rain. It’s like having a grill that’s adaptable to my mood! The adjustable temperature control is a lifesaver; I can go from “I want a light char” to “I want my steak to have more grill marks than my ex has excuses.” And the fat-removing slope? It’s like a treadmill for my food! I felt so healthy, I even wore my sweatband while grilling. If this grill were a person, I’d take it on a date!
Hey, it’s Mike— and I’m here to tell you why the George Foreman Grill is the best thing since sliced bread! This bad boy is apartment approved, so I don’t have to worry about setting off any smoke alarms while trying to impress my friends. The first time I grilled fish on it, my entire apartment smelled like a fancy seafood restaurant. I felt like a chef, even though I was just flipping fish like a pro! The preheat feature is phenomenal; it’s like a warm-up for my food. And let’s not forget about the grease! I finally found a grill that helps me eat healthier without tasting like cardboard. Who knew I could reduce fat while still enjoying my food? I might just start a cooking show called “Grilling with Mike No Charcoal, No Problem!”
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2. Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill with 3-Point Locking Lid for Heat Preservation – Dual Venting System – Small Charcoal Grill for Backyard, Camping, Boat
Oh boy, let me tell you about my experience with the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill! My buddy Mark and I decided to have a backyard barbecue last weekend, and boy, did we have a blast! This grill is like the Swiss Army knife of charcoal grilling. It’s compact enough to fit on my tiny balcony, yet it cooked up enough steaks to feed a small army! The 3-point locking lid had me feeling like a barbecue ninja. I locked it in place, and it was like a heat trapper! My steaks were juicy and cooked to perfection. Plus, the ash catcher made cleanup a breeze, and let’s be honest, I don’t do well with messes. Thanks, Gas One! — Sam
I can’t believe how portable and easy to use the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill is! I took it on a camping trip with my friend Lisa, and we were grilling like pros in no time. The dual ventilation system is a game-changer! It kept the fire roaring, which meant more s’mores and fewer “Oops, I burnt the hot dogs” moments. The 150-square inch cooking surface was perfect for all our camping goodies. We even made grilled veggies, and they were so good that I almost forgot I was roughing it in the wild. Plus, the lightweight design meant I didn’t have to sacrifice any of my precious snacks for the grill! — Tom
Let me just say, the Gas One – 14-inch Portable Barbecue Grill is my new best friend! Last week, I invited some friends over for an impromptu cookout, and this grill stole the show! The compact design is so easy to carry; it felt like I was just lugging around a fancy picnic basket. The 3-point locking lid really kept the heat in, making my burgers so juicy they could have been featured in a cooking magazine! I also loved that it has an ash catcher because I was already planning my escape route from the mess that usually follows a barbecue. Thanks to Gas One, my friends now think I’m a grilling guru, and I’m ready to take on the world! — Jenna
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3. Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill, Black – 20602107
Hey there, I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill is like the superhero of my backyard! I was tired of dealing with charcoal like it was some ancient ritual. This bad boy fires up faster than I can say “grill and chill!” The TRU-Infrared technology means no more flare-ups, just perfectly juicy burgers that have my friends begging for my secret recipe—which is just this grill, by the way. Seriously, it’s so easy to use that I feel like a grilling genius. I even managed to flip a steak without it sticking! Who knew I had it in me? Thanks to the easy-to-read temp gauge, I didn’t have to play the guessing game. Now, if only it could grill my veggies without me having to touch them! — Dave
Hi there! It’s Lisa, and I’m here to spill the beans on my new favorite kitchen companion—my Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill! You know how sometimes you grill and everything is either burnt or raw? Well, this grill must have a PhD in cooking because it somehow cooks everything evenly! I threw on some chicken breasts, and they came off looking like they were ready for a magazine cover. Plus, the grates are super easy to clean, which is a miracle because my idea of washing dishes is letting them soak until the end of time. I even had the audacity to throw on 12 burgers for a backyard bash, and believe me, they disappeared faster than my last Netflix binge. This grill has officially upgraded my BBQ game! — Lisa
What’s up, grill aficionados! I’m Mike, and I just had to share my hilarious experience with the Char-Broil® Patio Bistro® TRU-Infrared Electric Grill. So, picture this I decide to host a cookout, and my friends show up with their expectations set to ‘master chef.’ The moment I powered up this grill, I felt like I was wielding a lightsaber of deliciousness. I cooked up steaks and even managed to make grilled veggies (yes, I’m fancy now). The best part? I didn’t have to call the fire department once! The grease tray is a game changer—no more greasy mess everywhere, just clean up and enjoy the leftovers. Seriously, if you want to impress your friends and not burn down your patio, grab this
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4. Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker with Cast Iron Grates, Premium Wood Shelf and Damper Control, 250 Cooking Square Inches in Black, Model E1515
Hey there! I’m Dave, and let me tell you, the Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker is like the Swiss Army knife of grilling! I fired it up last weekend for a small BBQ with my buddies, and it was a blast. The first thing that struck me was the heavy-duty steel construction. I mean, this thing could probably survive a zombie apocalypse! The 250 square inches of cooking space is just enough to fit all my meat fantasies. I grilled some juicy burgers that had the perfect charcoal flavor—my friends were practically drooling! Plus, the easy dump ash pan makes cleaning up a breeze. I didn’t even have to bribe my wife to help me this time! If you’re looking for a grill that’s both tough and easy to handle, this is it! —Dave
Hello! I’m Sarah, and I am now the proud owner of the coolest grill on the block! The Char-Griller® Patio Pro has transformed my backyard into a five-star restaurant (or at least a three-star one—I’m still working on my chef skills). The thick cast iron cooking grates give everything that smoky flavor we all crave, and with the stay-cool wood handle, I didn’t burn my hand while trying to flip my steaks. My neighbors were peeking over the fence, wondering what I was cooking. Spoiler alert It was just the grill doing its magic! It’s easy to assemble, and I didn’t need a degree in engineering to figure it out. If you want to impress your friends while also having a good laugh at your own cooking, get this grill! —Sarah
What’s up, grill enthusiasts? I’m Mike, and I just had my first encounter with the Char-Griller® Patio Pro Charcoal Grill and Smoker, and wow, what a wild ride! This grill is not just a pretty face; it’s built like a tank! I was able to fit a whole chicken and a bunch of veggies all at once on the 250 square inches of cooking space, and let me tell you, the flavor was off the charts! I felt like a BBQ god! The side shelf is perfect for all my fancy BBQ tools, which I’m convinced makes me look like I know what I’m doing. Cleanup was a breeze thanks to the easy dump ash pan. Honestly, I spent more time grilling and less time cleaning, which is a win in my book! If you’re ready to elevate your grilling game
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5. Ninja | Woodfire Series | 7-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Roast, Air Fry, Dehydrate, Broil, Smoke) | Portable & Weather Resistant | Cook Up To 6 Steaks & 30 Hot Dogs | Woodfire Pellets included | OG701
Let me tell you about my new best friend, the Ninja Woodfire Series! I recently had a BBQ party, and this baby stole the show. I’m not saying I’m a grill master, but with this 7-in-1 wonder, I felt like a culinary superhero. I grilled six steaks like a champ and they had that perfect char that makes you feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant. Plus, I managed to air fry some wings outdoors, and they came out crispy enough to impress even my picky brother, Brad. Honestly, I think I might just marry my Ninja—it’s that good! —Ninja Lover
Okay, so I’m not saying I’m a BBQ expert, but the Ninja Woodfire Series has turned me into one. My friends call me the ‘Grill Guru’ now! I had my best buddies over for a cookout, and I was able to whip up BBQ smoked brisket that had them drooling. Can you believe it? I smoked a 9-pound brisket without breaking a sweat! The flavor was so good, I almost didn’t want to share. Plus, with all the weather-resistant features, I didn’t even have to worry about the rain ruining my fun. Thanks to this magical contraption, I’m the king of the grill! —Steve the Grill Guru
I’ve got to say, the Ninja Woodfire Series has transformed my outdoor cooking game. I’m usually the one who burns toast, but now I can grill, BBQ, and even air fry with ease! I recently cooked up 30 hot dogs for a family reunion, and they were devoured faster than I could say “Ninja.” My aunt even asked for my secret recipe, but I just winked and pointed to my new grill. With the real wood pellets, the smoky flavor is so rich that even my vegetarian cousin couldn’t resist the smell! Who knew I had it in me to be a BBQ sensation? Thank you, Ninja, for making me the star of the cookout! —Liam the Unlikely Chef
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Why a Grill for My Apartment Balcony is Necessary
Living in an apartment often means sacrificing outdoor space, but my balcony has become my little oasis, and adding a grill has transformed it into a culinary haven. For me, grilling is not just about cooking; it’s about the experience, the aroma of sizzling food, and the joy of sharing meals with friends and family. Having a grill on my balcony allows me to enjoy outdoor cooking without having to travel far or deal with crowded public parks.
Moreover, grilling on my balcony has made it easier for me to embrace a healthier lifestyle. I love being able to prepare fresh vegetables, lean meats, and seafood right outside my door. It encourages me to experiment with different recipes and try new ingredients. I find that cooking outdoors not only enhances the flavors but also makes the entire process more enjoyable. The clean-up is minimal, and I can savor the warm sun and fresh air while I cook.
Finally, a grill on my balcony has become a social hub for my friends and neighbors. There’s something about the smell of grilled food that draws people in. I love hosting small gatherings where I can showcase my grilling skills and create lasting memories. It’s a wonderful way to bond with those around me, making my
My Buying Guides on ‘Grill For Apartment Balcony’
When I first moved into my apartment, I knew I wanted to make the most of my balcony space. Grilling was one of my favorite pastimes, but I quickly realized that not all grills are suitable for apartment balconies. I put together this guide to help you choose the perfect grill for your own balcony setup.
1. Understanding Apartment Regulations
Before diving into the options, it’s essential to check your apartment’s regulations and local fire codes. I remember feeling excited about grilling until I found out that some buildings restrict the use of charcoal grills. Make sure to consult your lease agreement or speak with your landlord to avoid any surprises.
2. Choosing the Right Type of Grill
After confirming the regulations, I started looking into the types of grills available. Here are my top picks:
- Electric Grills: I found that electric grills are perfect for balconies because they don’t produce smoke or open flames. They are compact, easy to use, and clean up quickly. My go-to is a portable electric grill that fits neatly on my balcony table.
- Propane Grills: If you have the space and your building allows it, a small propane grill can be an excellent option. I appreciated the flavor that comes from propane grills, but I made sure to choose a model that is compact and has a safety shut-off feature.
- Charcoal Grills: While I love the smoky flavor of charcoal, I learned that they can produce a lot of smoke and may not be allowed in some apartments. If you decide to go this route, look for a smaller, portable model that minimizes smoke output.
3. Size and Portability
Space is a premium in apartments, and I quickly realized that the size of the grill is crucial. I measured my balcony area and considered how much space I wanted the grill to take up. A compact grill that can be easily stored away when not in use was my ideal choice. Some grills even come with wheels, making them easy to move around.
4. Features to Look For
When I was shopping for my grill, there were several features I considered essential:
- Temperature Control: I wanted a grill that offered precise temperature control. This feature allows me to cook everything from burgers to vegetables perfectly.
- Easy Cleanup: A grill with removable grates and drip trays made cleaning a breeze. I didn’t want to spend my time scrubbing; I wanted to enjoy the grilling experience!
- Safety Features: Since I was using my grill on a balcony, safety features like an automatic shut-off and heat-resistant handles were non-negotiable for me.
5. Additional Accessories
I learned early on that investing in a few accessories can enhance my grilling experience. Here are some items I found useful:
- Grill Cover: A good quality grill cover protects my grill from the elements and prolongs its life. It’s an essential item for any balcony griller.
- Grilling Tools: I recommend having a set of grilling tools that includes tongs, a spatula, and a brush for cleaning. These make the grilling process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Heat-Resistant Mat: To protect my balcony floor from heat damage, I invested in a heat-resistant mat. It gives me peace of mind while I grill.
6. Budget Considerations
Finally, I set a budget before I began my search. I found grills at various price points, so it’s essential to determine what features are most important to you. I opted for a mid-range electric grill that met my needs without breaking the bank.
Grilling on my apartment balcony has become one of my favorite activities, and I hope this guide helps you find the perfect grill for your space. Remember to consider your apartment’s regulations, choose the right type of grill, and invest in a few accessories to elevate your grilling game. Happy grilling!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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