5 Best Cast Iron Hibachi Grills [Reviewed+Buyer's Guide]

Hibachi grills are generally known to be very sturdy and are a popular choice among people who wish to cook on their tables or outdoors. There are small and medium-sized versions, each having different purposes. Now, they do not come with a hoard of fancy features, but will surely add a rustic charm to your place.

Moving on, you might have a difficult time choosing one because of the multiple options available. To prevent any dilemma around this, we have reviewed the 5 best cast iron hibachi grills. A buyer's guide is also provided for you to make the right choice.

So, dive in to know all about them.

Best Cast Iron Hibachi Grills

Here is the list of the 5 best cast iron hibachi grills that you can use to cook delicious meals outdoors.

1. Update International Hibachi Set - Best for Toasting Marshmallows

If you are looking for a small product for personal use, the Update International Cast Iron Hibachi Set will suit you well. This is not an electric gadget and works traditionally using fuel. It comes with space to hold fuel, which makes it a very useful cooking appliance.

Update International Cast Iron Hibachi Set,Black, 3 - 3/8in...

Quality Construction - Made from cast iron with elegant wood...
Easy Clean - Features a removable grill, making it easier to...

Why Did We Like It?

Now since this is a small stove that is 3 ⅜ x 4.5 inches in size, it is best to use it for toasting marshmallows and smores. It can also be used as a centerpiece for a large Chinese platter to keep the food warm.

Coming to the fuel, you can keep charcoal in the holder, but since it is very small, only a calculated amount can be kept. We will recommend using a cooking gel as it is a great alternative and tends to last longer.

Moving on to the design, this set is made exactly like the traditional devices used long back in Japan. The grill has a flat surface, and you will have to place your plate on it. Moreover, the wood base looks elegant and adds to the design.

Also, since the product is small, it is not priced high, and you can easily afford it.

What Could've Been Better?

Although this can be used for toasting marshmallows, you will not be able to cook full meals with it. This is because the area is very small, and the heating capacity is also medium. We have been able to heat water on it but nothing more than that.

Pros

Removable design for easy cleaning
Contains a fuel holder
Traditional Japanese design
Works as a centerpiece while serving platters

Cons

Not for cooking large meals

Dimensions: 3.37" x 4.5" | Weight: N/A | Color: Black | Shape: Round

2. ChefMaster 90206 - Best for Tabletop Cooking

The next option is very similar to the one above because of its size and design. The ChefMaster Cast Iron Mini Hibachi Grill 90206 is inspired by Japanese tradition and is shaped like a pot. Use it for small snacks, and it will serve you well.

Chef Master Mini Japanese Hibachi Grill, Indoor Smores...

Easy to use and fun for all ages - The Chefmaster mini...
Durable cast iron design with stylish wooden base - All...

Why Did We Like It?

This is perfect for camping trips with 1 or 2 people in the group. Yes, you can toast s'mores and marshmallows in it. But other than that, it is even used in restaurants on tabletops for guests to cook their own meat. Remember that the slices should be very thin for them to cook well.

Moving on, its top will not heat up like a standard grill, and the medium heat makes it safer to use on the tabletop. Since there might be kids sitting at the same table trying to toast their marshmallows, it is best to opt for such safe options.

The best part is that the grill comes fully assembled and pre-seasoned. You can literally take it out of its box and start using it. There are no complicated settings or functions, and you can easily learn to use this one.

What Could've Been Better?

Since the product is very small, its fuel capacity is also very low. Hence, you will have to keep adding fuel every 7-10 minutes. This could be problematic when using it on a tabletop. So, we’d suggest using a cooking gel which lasts a little bit longer.

Pros

Medium heat level for safe use
Comes fully assembled
Can be used on a tabletop
Inspired by the traditional Japanese design

Cons

Fuel capacity is low

Dimensions: 3.74" x 3.4" x 4.5" | Weight: 2.55lbs | Color: Black | Shape: Round

3. Giantex Charcoal Grill GT70617-PO - Best for Outdoor Camping

Our next option is a large product that will help you cook all types of meat and vegetables. The Giantex Charcoal Grill GT70617-PO is a medium-sized portable choice that will help you cook food outdoors. You can take it in RVs or on hiking trips, and it will serve you well.

Giantex Charcoal Grill Hibachi Grill, Portable Cast Iron...

【Brilliant Camping & Party BBQ Tool】: Use this portable...
【Adjustable Height & Air Regulation】: With the aim of...

Why Did We Like It?

This grill has a double-sided grilling net that can be used in any way. As the grill is turned, you get 2 different heights at which you can work. This is accompanied by an air-regulating door, which is placed at the bottom. You can adjust the firepower easily by moving the door from left to right.

Also, this has a 12.5 x 8.5 inches grilling net top, which is bigger than the previous options. This will provide you with enough space to grill kebabs, drumsticks, steaks, and even vegetables. You can buy this for a family of 3-4, and it will suit you well.

Moreover, it is constructed with high-quality cast iron which is resistant to high heat levels. Cast iron is also known for its heat retention and thermal conductivity. It will ensure that the heat spreads all over well.

What Could've Been Better?

When the product is hot, you will not be able to move it at all. There are no handles to carry it, and hence you will have to wait till it cools down. Now, if you are on a camping trip, ensure that the grill is shut an hour before you need to pack up.

Pros

Adjustable height with air regulation
Spacious grilling area
Perfect for BBQ and camping trips
Detachable charcoal and grilling net

Cons

Cannot be moved when hot

Dimensions: 15.5" x 10.5" x 7" | Weight: 20lbs | Color: Black | Shape: Rectangular

4. Cajun GL10447

One of our top recommendations is the Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron GL10447, which is known for its fusion design. It is the perfect combination of the traditional Japanese form and a standard grill. We loved its unique design, and there was ample space for cooking on top.

Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Hibachi...

Why Did We Like It?

This comes with a cooking surface of 15 inches and is round in shape. It will provide you enough space for 7-8 small burgers of 4 inches each. So, you can cook for a family of 5-6 people with this in 2 batches.

Moving on to the fire chamber, you get 11 ¼ inches of space in it, and that can be filled with charcoal or firewood. In case you are using charcoal, then you will not have to fill it too much as there is limited space. But it does last long.

Now coming to convenience, it is very easy to add coal as there is a drop-down door. You can simply open it and remove the ash while filling it with coal. There is also an air chamber below which allows proper ventilation and will let you adjust the temperature when needed.

What Could've Been Better?

The only downside to this product is the weight as it is 40 pounds and that makes it difficult to carry. So, if you are going to move it around a lot, buy a small cart for it, and that will help you in the process. It also has a stainless steel handle to lift it up, provided your muscle strength permits.

Pros

Easily accessible coal chamber
Cooking surface of 15 inches
Ventilation door for proper air circulation
Unique design

Cons

Very heavy body

Dimensions: 15" x 8" | Weight: 42lbs | Color: Black | Shape: Round

5. Lodge Sportsman's Pro Grill

The Lodge Sportsman's Pro Grill is a high-quality hibachi grill that stands apart from its competitors in the market. This seasoned cast-iron grill, which is versatile and portable, requires regular maintenance yet promises an elevated grilling experience. Ideal for picnics, barbecue tailgating, or a family cookout, it is an excellent blend of functionality and design elements that cater to many user scenarios.

Lodge Sportsman's Pro Grill, 19.38 inches, Black

The Lodge Cast Iron Sportsman's Pro Grill features a...
Seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil.

Why Did We Like It?

What makes the Lodge Sportsman's Pro Grill truly impressive is its size and portability, making it suitable for a family cookout, or a tailgate party. The standout feature of this grill is its pre-seasoned cooking grate, which is free of chemicals.

The Lodge cast iron hibachi grill also includes a flip-down door for adding coals, a draft door for heat management, and a slide-out ash tray for cleaning. These thoughtful design considerations elevate the overall user experience and simplify the cooking process significantly. Additionally, this charcoal grill is an impressive fuel saver due to its superior heat retention ability.

What Could've Been Better?

While the Lodge Sportsman's Grill is indeed a high-performance product, it isn't without its quirks. One notable drawback is the absence of a lid. Without a lid, the only way to extinguish the fire after cooking is to manually transfer the burning charcoal into a metal container - a tedious task that could be dangerous if not done properly. Additionally, the weight of the grill may be off-putting for some, considering its portable nature.

Pros

Outstanding hibachi grill performance
Sleek and tidy grill design
Durable
Easy charcoal addition and clean-out

Cons

Heavier than some comparable models
No lid to extinguish the fire

Dimensions: 19.38" x 9.69" x 7.56" | Weight: 33.25lbs | Color: Black | Shape: Rectangular

Best Cast Iron Hibachi Grill Comparison Table

Product	Dimensions	Weight	Color	Shape
Update International Hibachi Set	3.37" x 4.5"	N/A	Black	Round
ChefMaster 90206	‎3.74" x 3.4" x 4.5"	‎2.55lbs	Black	Round
Giantex Charcoal Grill GT70617-PO	‎15.5" x 10.5" x 7"	‎20lbs	Black	Rectangular
Cajun GL10447	15" x 8"	42lbs	Black	Round
Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill	19.38" x 9.69" x 7.56"	33.25lbs	Black	Rectangular

Buying Guide For The Best Cast Iron Hibachi Grill

Now that you have gone through the top 5 options, you must have a clear idea about the different types of grills available. This section will tell you about the factors to keep in mind before purchasing. These are considerations varying from size, capacity, and convenience, to name a few. Read on to know about them in detail.

Size

What kind of surface area are you looking for? This is the most important question that comes up when we are talking about purchasing grills. There are small options that will fit table tops well, and you can use them to toast marshmallows and S’mores.

If you opt for bigger grills, they can be used for BBQs and outdoor parties, and dinners. There are medium-sized options available that work well for hiking and camping trips. So, different sizes serve varied purposes, and you will have to be careful with this.

Material

Now, most of these are made of cast iron with wood or aluminum in it. Cast iron is sturdy but is prone to rust. To prevent this, you will have to keep it clean and oil it regularly. Greasing is essential for grills as they are the most prone to catch rust.

Handles

This might not seem like a big deal, but it has a lot of weight in the long run. Some grills come with handles that can be folded down to create the product’s feet. At the same time, others do not come with a handle. We will suggest opting for one with a handle if you plan to move it around a lot.

If it is absent, then you will have to hold the grill with bare hands, and that means you have to wait until the grill cools down before touching it. This could become time-consuming and prove to be a problem in the long run.

Cast Iron Hibachi Grills FAQs

No, due to the release of carbon monoxide from the burning charcoal, using a hibachi grill indoors is unsafe and not recommended.

Most cast iron hibachi grills come pre-assembled or need minimal assembly. However, it is always best to read the manufacturer’s instructions.

Most cast iron hibachi grills use charcoal, providing the traditional smoky flavor associated with BBQs.

You can grill a diverse range of foods including burgers, steaks, seafood, vegetables, and skewered meats. Because of high heat retention, they are also great for searing food.

Although hibachi grills don’t typically have built-in temperature controls, you can regulate heat by moving charcoal around, adjusting the distance between food and coals, or limiting oxygen supply using adjustable air vents in some models.

After every use, let the grill cool down, then scrub it with a grill brush. Protect the grill’s surface using cooking oil to avoid rust. During off-seasons, store your grill in a dry location or protect it with a cover.

Conclusion

The search for the perfect cast iron hibachi grill can be quite daunting given the plethora of options available in the market. There's no one-size-fits-all solution as it all depends on what you're looking for. From small, compact tabletop grills to larger, freestanding ones that need a bit more room, it all hinges on individual preferences and needs. But with careful consideration and research, it is undoubtedly possible to uncover the best hibachi grill that meets your requirements perfectly.

From the above 5 best cast iron hibachi grills, here are the top three expert recommendations:

If you need a hibachi grill for toasting marshmallows, the Update International Cast Iron Hibachi Set is an ideal option. It may be small, but its clever traditional design and inexpensive price tag make it perfect for personal use or as a statement centerpiece.

For those who value the ability to cook at their own leisure, the ChefMaster 90206 is a good option. This mini grill is perfect for tabletop cooking and comes fully assembled and pre-seasoned, providing a seamless cooking experience right out of the box.

Considering the need for portability during outdoor activities like camping, the Giantex Charcoal Grill GT70617-PO is the right choice. Its larger cooking area and adjustability features, coupled with its rugged build, make it a reliable companion for cooking outdoors.

Each of these hibachi grills provides a unique approach to grilling and brings its own set of strengths to the table. The onus is on you to decide which one fits your specific needs and personal preference. Once you have drawn that conclusion, you will have found the best hibachi grill for you. Happy grilling!

Related Articles

Traeger Renegade Pro Review – Traeger Pellet Grills

Blackstone 28” Griddle Review – One of the Best Flat Top Grill Today

5 Best Small Traeger Grill For Backyard & RV BBQs

Saber R50SC1417 Gas Grill Review Under the Microscope

Weber Spirit E-330 Review – Handpicked Gas Grills Reviewed

Napoleon Prestige Pro 500 Under Review

Weber Summit S-470 Gas Grill Under the Microscope

7 Best Electric Smokers Reviewed – Buyer’s Guide

Nexgrill vs. Weber | Budget Grills Product Comparison

Broil King vs. Weber Grills | Two of the Best Compared

13 Best Grills For Apartment Balcony at Tasty Prices