The 8 best compact grills for your little kitchen, small balcony, or tiny backyard

Memorial Day is right around the corner, but for many in the U.S., visiting friends for a barbecue or hitting up your favorite rooftop restaurant won’t be an option. If your summer holiday nightmares are fueled by sad images of boiled hot dogs, fear not—you have options. Even if you don’t have sprawling outdoor space, you can do your best to celebrate this year with by cooking on compact grills.

There are tons of grills that are safe to use indoors, and others designed to accommodate small outdoor spaces like balconies. Grill anything from fish to avocados with the best compact grills you can buy online.

The best grill pans

1. Lodge DUAL HANDLE CAST IRON GRILL PAN, $21

If you’re not an avid griller but still want to get the occasional grill lines, try this cast iron grill pan from Lodge. The ribbed surface allows fat to drain from your food while also searing. And like all Lodge cast iron products, this cast iron pan comes pre-seasoned, so you can use it immediately.

2. Le Creuset Grill Pan, $129

If you’re a lover of all things Le Creuset, it may be time to add this one to your collection. This enameled cast iron grill pan doesn’t require seasoning, and is complete with two side spouts to allow for easy drainage. It will also look so pretty anywhere you store it, adding a pop of color to your kitchen.

Best compact indoor grills

1. HAMILTON BEACH 25361 SEARING GRILL WITH LID WINDOW, $70

This indoor grill allows you to sear at temperatures up to 450°F. The lid window makes it easy to keep an eye on your food while a large removable tray allows you to clean grease with ease. It’s about 17 inches wide and 12 inches deep, allowing it to fit comfortably on your counter top, or be stowed away for easy access. 

2. DēLonghi LIVENZA COMPACT ALL DAY GRILL 3-IN-1, $80

If you like your small appliances to multitask, this countertop grill is also a sandwich press and a waffle maker. Three interchangeable plates allow you to get the most out this device.

Best compact grill for inside and outside

1. Kenyon City Grill, $475

If you want the flexibility of a grill that can be used both inside and out, this sleek model from Kenyon is the one for you. Designed for those living in apartment buildings and condos, this grill can be used on your balcony or in your kitchen. While any indoor grill can technically be used outside, this one is designed to withstand the elements so it can also be left outside. Get $50 off if you purchase before May 14.

Best compact outdoor grills

1. WEBER SMOKEY JOE CHARCOAL GRILL, $35

If you’re a charcoal lover, this tiny grill may be the one for you. It’s got a 14-inch diameter, making it perfect for even the smallest of outdoor spaces.

2. WEBER Q 1000 GAS GRILL, $179

Also from Weber, this portable gas grill is perfect for use at home, or for a camping trip. Use it on an outdoor table, or opt for the Portable Cart ($90).

3. Dyna-Glo 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill in Red,  $340

You may want to make room for this gorgeous three-burner grill. It’s roughly 3.5-feet wide, 4-feet tall, and 2-feet deep, making it perfect to nestle onto a balcony or into a small yard.