Empura Gas Griddles

What should you look for in a gas griddle?

Griddle width, plate construction, burner configuration, and control type are the main factors that affect cooking performance. A thicker plate generally stores more heat, while burner layout affects recovery across the cooking surface. Manual controls let operators adjust each burner's output, while thermostatic controls maintain a selected temperature more closely for repeatable cooking.

Empura's current gas griddle collection includes countertop models from 24 to 60 inches wide, with listed total inputs from 60,000 to 150,000 BTU. Standard- and heavy-duty configurations are available with manual or thermostatic controls. A 48-inch heavy-duty model uses four manual burners for 120,000 BTU total, while a 47-inch thermostatic model uses four 30,000 BTU U-shaped burners and lists a 150°F to 450°F control range. Product pages also identify stainless steel construction, welded splash guards, adjustable legs, and propane conversion kits on selected models. Kitchens that need open burners can compare Empura's gas hot plates.

Who uses gas griddles?

• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Catering Operations
• Schools
• Healthcare Facilities
• Cafeterias
• Food Trucks

Frequently asked questions

What is a gas griddle used for?
A gas griddle provides a flat, solid cooking surface for foods like pancakes, eggs, bacon, burgers, and grilled sandwiches, and is commonly used as either a standalone countertop cooking station or as part of a larger cook line.

What's the difference between manual and thermostatic griddle controls?
Manual controls adjust burner output directly without a set temperature target, while thermostatic controls let operators set a specific surface temperature that the griddle then maintains automatically, which can improve consistency for temperature-sensitive items.

How thick should a commercial griddle plate be?
Plate thickness affects heat retention and recovery, but the appropriate specification depends on the menu and production volume. Rather than choosing by thickness alone, compare the plate, burner layout, BTU input, control type, and manufacturer's duty rating as a complete cooking system.

Can a gas griddle run on propane instead of natural gas?
Selected Empura gas griddles include a field conversion kit for liquid propane. The unit must be configured for the available fuel and installed according to the manufacturer's instructions by a qualified professional.

Do gas griddles require a ventilation hood?
Commercial gas griddles produce heat and grease-laden cooking vapors and are commonly installed beneath a commercial exhaust system. NFPA 96 addresses ventilation control and fire protection for commercial cooking operations. Hood, fire-suppression, clearance, and permitting requirements vary by jurisdiction, so the installation should be reviewed under local code and by the authority having jurisdiction.