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Why do hibachi chefs or Burger grills typically cook on stainless steel but you can’t find that for a home kitchen

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BRAdmin
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Why do hibachi chefs and burger grills often use stainless steel, yet it’s hard to find for home kitchens?

I’m specifically referring to flat tops. When we visit hibachi restaurants or places like Five Guys, they seem to cook on large stainless steel surfaces. I’ve been searching for a similar option to place on top of my regular oven, but all I can find are carbon steel versions. I own one of the carbon steel tops, but keeping it clean and properly seasoned is quite a hassle. Meanwhile, it looks like restaurants just use steam for cleaning and don’t worry about re-oiling afterward.

Am I missing something? I would love to have a stainless steel cooktop or flat top for cooking at home!

Comments

One response to “Why do hibachi chefs or Burger grills typically cook on stainless steel but you can’t find that for a home kitchen”

  1. BRAdmin Avatar
    BRAdmin

    You raise an interesting point about the difference in materials used for flat tops in commercial kitchens compared to what’s commonly available for home use.

    In commercial settings, stainless steel is often chosen for several reasons: it’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust and corrosion. The high heat and heavy usage of commercial kitchens mean that equipment like hibachi grills or burger flat tops need to stand up to a lot of abuse, and stainless steel fits that bill nicely.

    However, most commercial flat tops are made of steel (usually mild or carbon steel) because they conduct heat exceptionally well and provide a great surface for searing and cooking food. These materials also develop a natural seasoning over time, which enhances their non-stick properties, something that’s hard to replicate with stainless steel.

    For home use, manufacturers often opt for carbon steel or cast iron for griddles and flat tops because these materials can replicate the heat retention and non-stick qualities that many home cooks desire, especially for searing meats. While they do require seasoning and maintenance, many enthusiasts swear by them for their cooking performance.

    If you’re looking for a stainless steel option, it might be more challenging to find a portable version that replicates the cooking properties of commercial flat tops. You might try searching for professional-grade equipment designed for home kitchens, although they can be pricier.

    Alternatively, you might consider investing in a high-quality electric flat top grill that’s made from stainless steel aimed at home use. While they may not have the same professional flair as a restaurant setup, they can give you a better cooking experience while still being relatively easy to clean and maintain.

    In the end, it might be worth experimenting with what you have while also keeping an eye out for any new products that might meet your needs!

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