Looking for the best hibachi grills to elevate your outdoor cooking game? Look no further! These ancient Japanese-style grills are great for small gatherings, camping, tailgating, and bringing that Japanese steakhouse quality right to your backyard. They heat up fast and are perfect for cooking food fast, adding a unique touch to any backyard BBQ.
We research and test all products to give you informed product reviews. Read our Editorial Guidelines. Buying through our links may earn us a small commission with no added cost to you.
Table of Contents
The Best Hibachi Grills
Hibachi grills have a rich history dating back to ancient Japan. They were first used for cooking in open-air settings. The word “hibachi” translates to “fire bowl” and the original grills looked as such! Made from clay or metal and heated with charcoal, the grill’s compact size and portability made it a popular choice for cooking good food outdoors.
Now, we know there are a ton of different style grills to choose from. You’ve got grill smoker combos, portable grills, gas grills, pellet grills, and more… but lately, hibachi style grills have become a staple in the backyard BBQ scene and are definitely worth mentioning!
Their compact size makes these small charcoal grills perfect for small patios and balconies and their traditional design and use of charcoal give food a unique, smoky flavor.
Usually found in Japanese restaurants or any good sushi restaurants with teppanyaki-style cooking, a Hibachi Master recognizes that these grills are a great choice. Many hibachi grills feature durable materials like cast iron or stainless steel. This makes them long-lasting grills, built to last.
Their compact size and traditional design also make them a great choice for small gatherings. Plus, they’re versatile enough to grill anything on your lunch menu from vegetables to steaks and even super tender chicken!
A hibachi grill is an essential addition to any BBQ collection, no matter if you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out. With the delicious and authentic smoky flavor, this grill stands out from propane and natural gas grills.
If you haven’t already, you should definitely consider adding a hibachi grill to your BBQ list.
Become a BBQ Hero Insider
Be the first to find out about product deals, discounts, new product reviews and BBQ recipes!
Our Picks: The Best Hibachi Grills
- Best Overall: Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill
- Best Runner-Up: IronMaster Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Grill
- Editors Choice: Fire Sense Yakatori Charcoal Grill
- Best Luxury: Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill
- Best Luxury Runner-Up: Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Hibachi Grill
- Best Gas Hibachi: Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill
- Best Budget Friendly: Marsh Allen Hibachi Charcoal Grill
Best Overall
Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill
The Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill is a top-of-the-line cast iron hibachi charcoal grill. Made from durable and rugged cast iron known for its ability to keep and distribute heat. Great for charcoal grilling. The removable grill grate on this hibachi grill makes it easy to add coals. Plus, you can control the cooking temperature very easily.
One of the standout features of this charcoal grill is the set of steel hooks & carry handles that come with it. These handles provide a secure and safe grip when lifting or maneuvering the grill. This makes it easy to move around or transport. The grill also comes pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil. It’s ready to use straight out of the box for your next charcoal grilling experience.
The slide-out ash drawer and dual air vents of this grill make it easy to control heat and airflow during cooking. Plus, you can remove ashes after cooking for simple maintenance. Overall, the Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill is a top-quality product. It’s built to last and the various features make it easy to use and maintain. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues, camping trips, or outdoor charcoal grilling.
Best Runner-Up
IronMaster Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Grill
The IronMaster Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Grill is one of the best hibachi charcoal grills. Its high-quality cast iron material makes it safe with high temperatures and has great heat retention. This can save on charcoal usage and lock in moisture for delicious food.
One of the standout features of this grill is its ease of use. The convenient fire door at the front allows for easy charcoal addition. Plus, the double-sided grill grate with two different heights offers versatile cooking options. It also comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, ready for high-temperature cooking.
Cleanup is also a breeze thanks to the easy-to-clean design. And its portability makes it a great option for camping trips.
Overall, The IronMaster Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Grill is a durable and versatile option. It offers excellent heat retention, easy setup and cleanup, and versatile cooking options. This hibachi grill is a great option for anyone who loves grilling and is ideal for camping.
Editors Choice
Fire Sense Yakatori Charcoal Grill
The Fire Sense Yakatori Charcoal Grill is a great choice for a traditional hibachi grill. This handmade grill made of clay radiates heat and produces a juicy and tender BBQ every time. It comes with adjustable ventilation that gives you complete control over your burning charcoal. Plus, it allows you to cook your food to perfection while saving time and money by wasting less fuel.
The Yakatori Grill is a tabletop grill that makes it easy to use in small spaces. Yet, it still offers a generous 17″x10″ cooking surface area. The stand with handles makes it easy to move around and transport. This makes it a great option for traveling and camping.
Overall, Yakitori Grills are an affordable yet authentic hibachi grill. Perfect for people who are looking to grill their food using a traditional cooking style.
Best Luxury
Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill
The Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill is a luxury hibachi grill. It’s perfect for tailgating, trips to the beach, camping, or using on the patio. The grill is lightweight and compact. Plus, it’s cool-to-touch handles make it easy to transport wherever you go.
One of the standout features of this grill is that it comes with a bamboo preparation board. This prep board can also double as a food storage tray. It will be easy to prepare and serve your food with this addition.
The 115 sq inch grilling surface provides plenty of space to cook for a small group of people. Plus, the grill heats up quickly, allowing you to start cooking in no time.
In terms of portability and convenience, the Everdure CUBE is one of the best portable grills available. The compact design and accessories make it easy to pack up, move around, and set up in different locations.
Best Luxury Runner-Up
Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Hibachi Grill
The Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Hibachi Grill is another luxury hibachi grill. It offers a traditional circular Japanese-style design with a 15-inch cooking surface diameter. This grill is circular and sort of shaped like a bucket. But it offers a larger cooking surface area on its cast iron grate than other grills in the hibachi family. It can hold up to nine burgers, making it perfect for cooking for small groups of people.
The cast iron material helps keep heat and cook food evenly. And the front vent allows for great airflow control. These two features give you greater precision over the cooking temperature. It ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
The traditional Japanese-style design of this grill is not only beautiful but also functional! An excellent addition to your barbeque grill lineup.
Best Gas Hibachi
Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill
The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill is a great choice for anyone looking for the best gas hibachi grill. This portable grill offers 145 square inches of cooking space. Perfect for small groups of people. The legs of the grill can fold up beneath the main unit, which makes it super portable. You can take it anywhere you go, from picnics to camping trips to tailgates.
One of the greatest things about gas grills is that they’re easier to use than charcoal grills. The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill is no exception. It comes with a convenient push-button ignition that makes it easy to start grilling.
The porcelain enameled cooking grates are another feature that adds to the grill’s efficiency and ease of use. It’s not only durable but also easy to clean, which makes it a convenient option.
Best Budget-Friendly
Marsh Allen Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill
The Marsh Allen Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill is an affordable hibachi grill. This is a beautiful traditional hibachi grill designed with air vents and wooden handles. A great choice for those who want to try out the hibachi cooking technique without spending a ton of money.
The Marsh Allen Cast Iron Grill is completely adjustable. You will have greater control over the cooking temperature, making it easy to cook different types of food. Yet, it does have a small cooking area which might limit the amount of food you can cook at once.
Designed as a tabletop unit, this Marsh Allen grill is perfect for small spaces. It’s also perfect for bringing along on camping adventures. Lightweight, easy to move around, and ideal for outdoor cooking, what more could you ask for?
Our Results For The Best Hibachi Grills
So, there you have it. The best hibachi grills in the market today. We have gas, charcoal hibachi grills, and traditional hibachi grills on our list. Here’s a recap of the best hibachi grills for you:
- Best Overall: Lodge Sportsman’s Pro Grill
“top-of-the-line cast iron hibachi charcoal grill. made from durable and rugged cast iron” - Best Runner-Up: IronMaster Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Grill
“high-quality cast iron construction. resistant to high temperatures and excellent heat retention” - Editors Choice: Fire Sense Yakatori Charcoal Grill
“constructed using clay which radiates heat and produces a juicy and tender BBQ every time” - Best Luxury: Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill
“lightweight and compact, with cool to touch handles” - Best Luxury Runner-Up: Cajun Classic Round Seasoned Cast Iron Charcoal Hibachi Grill
“traditional circular Japanese-style design with a 15-inch cooking surface diameter” - Best Gas Hibachi: Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill
“take it anywhere you go, from picnics to camping trips to tailgates.” - Best Budget Friendly: Marsh Allen Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill
“aesthetically pleasing traditional hibachi grill on a budget”
Types of Hibachi Grills
Hibachi grills are a popular choice for outdoor cooking because of their traditional Japanese design. They come in various types, including charcoal, electric, gas, and teppanyaki.
Charcoal Hibachi Grill
These are the most traditional type. They are often associated with the authentic hibachi dining experience. Fueled by burning hot charcoal, this style gives food that distinct smoky flavor.
Charcoal hibachi grills have excellent heat retention and offer great control over temperature. Yet, they do need more maintenance than other types of hibachi grills.
Electric Hibachi Grill
Electric hibachi grills use electricity and are great for indoor use. Or, for places where charcoal is not allowed. These electric grills are easy to use and offer great control over temperature. But, they do not give food that smoky flavor. They are the easiest to clean though!
Gas Hibachi Grill
This use propane gas or natural gas. They are easy to start, have great temperature control, and are great for cooking in places where charcoal is not allowed. Plus, they have larger cooking areas than traditional charcoal hibachi grills. They can also cook a variety of dishes.
Teppanyaki Grill
Teppanyaki hibachi are like traditional hibachi grills. But they have a flat griddle-like surface! They use teppanyaki-style cooking techniques, which involve cooking food on an iron griddle. They are great for cooking food such as steaks, seafood, and vegetables. Plus, the flat surface allows for easy flipping and stirring of the food.
Safety Tips For Hibachi Grills
When using a hibachi grill, it’s important to keep safety in mind to avoid injuries or accidents. Here are three safety tips to keep in mind:
Proper Ventilation
It produces smoke and heat, so it’s important to use it in a well-ventilated area. This will prevent smoke inhalation and reduce the risk of fire. Avoid using the grill in enclosed spaces, such as garages or tents.
Handle Fuel Carefully
If you’re using a hibachi grill that runs on charcoal make sure to handle the charcoal and lighter fluid with safety in mind. Always use a charcoal starter or electric starter to light the charcoal, and avoid using gas or other flammable liquids. Also, be sure to keep any fuel away from a lit grill to prevent accidental fires.
Proper Maintenance
Before using the grill make sure to check for any damage or loose parts. If the grill is damaged do not use it until it has been repaired. Also make sure to clean the grill thoroughly after each use. You want to remove any excess food or grease when you’ve finished. These can cause flare-ups and become a fire hazard.
Things To Consider When Buying A Hibachi Grill
When shopping for the perfect grill for hibachi grill, there are several factors to consider. Especially to ensure that you get the right grill for your needs. Here is a buying guide to help you navigate the options and make an informed purchase.
Size
Most hibachi are small in size. It’s one of the most distinguishing factors of the hibachi grill! But amongst the small sizes, there is a still range of sizes available to choose between.
The size of the best hibachi grill for you will depend on how many people you plan to cook for. For small families or couples, a compact hibachi that is around 15 inches in diameter or less will be enough as a grill. For larger groups, a larger grill with a surface of 18 inches or more may be a better choice.
Construction
Most of them have cast iron. You can find some lower-grade grills made from aluminum and stainless steel materials, too. These materials will make the grill lightweight and easier to carry with you on trips. But, the only drawback of such grills is that they cannot retain as much heat as cast iron construction. Plus, they aren’t very durable, either.
Cast iron grills are durable and keep heat well. But, they must be taken care of otherwise they will be prone to rust.
Portability
Some hibachi grills are portable, while others are stationary. Portable grills are lightweight and easy to carry. This makes them great for camping, tailgating, or picnics. Stationary grills are larger and heavier, but they are also more stable and easier to use.
Special Features
Some grills come with additional features. You may want to take this into consideration when making your final decision.
- Adjustable Grill Rack: Adjustable grill grates will allow you to adjust the height of the food from the hot coals. You can slow cook or cook food on very high heat as needed with this feature.
- Dual Heat Levels: Some hibachis have a double grill. This allows you to place more coal on one side and less on the other. This way, you can cook many types of food using different heat levels at the same time.
- Adjustable Vents: Good quality hibachi grill will sometimes feature air vents below the grill. This allows for sufficient airflow to stoke the fire. This gives you substantial control over the speed and heat levels.
Hibachi Grill FAQs
What Kind Of Food Can I Cook A Hibachi Grill?
Hibachi grills are amazing little versatile grills. You can use them to cook a wide variety of food items including meats, seafood, vegetables, and even fruit! The most popular choices for hibachi grilling include steak, chicken, shrimp, and skewers of vegetables. With a hibachi grill, you can experiment with different flavors and techniques to make meals.
What Are Hibachi Grills?
Hibachi grills are small charcoal-burning grills that first originated in Japan. Usually made of cast iron or stainless steel with a shallow charcoal bowl and a cooking grate above. These grills are usually lightweight and easy to transport. This makes them popular for camping, picnics, and tailgating. They are also great for small spaces or patios, as they don’t need as much space as traditional grills.
How Do I Season My Hibachi Grill?
Seasoning your grill before use helps prevent rust and makes it easier to clean the grill in the future. Make sure you clean and oil your hibachi grill after each use so that it lasts for many years to come.
How Much Does A Hibachi Grill Cost?
The cost of a hibachi grill can vary depending on the size, construction materials, and features of the grill. A basic, small hibachi grill can be as little as $20 to $30. A larger, high-end model can cost $200 or more. Grills with extra features like side shelves, built-in thermometers, or lids tend to be more expensive.
How Do You Ignite A Hibachi Grill?
Hibachi grill lighting is easy. Gather your materials, including charcoal, starter fluid, and a lighter or matches. Open the grill’s vents, place the charcoal in the center, soak it with starter fluid then light it in several places. Wait for 15-20 minutes for the charcoal to ash over. Use the adjustable vents to control the temperature while cooking. Keep in mind that some hibachi grills are electric and may have different lighting instructions.
Where can I buy a Hibachi Grill?
Hibachi Grills are usually available at most home hardware stores. Try searching “hibachi grill near me” or “hibachi near me” to find a hibachi grill for sale in your area. Or, better yet, follow one of our recommendations in this post and buy online!
Where can I experience a Hibachi Grill experience before purchasing one for myself?
You will usually see Hibachi Grills at a traditional Tachibana Japanese restaurant, Osaka Japanese restaurant, or any restaurant that serves Japanese cuisine. Try searching “Japanese steakhouse near me” to find delicious japanese food in your area.
