A rooftop deck should feel like a private escape above the city, not a fight with your building manager. The best grills for rooftop decks in 2026 solve a unique set of problems: tight footprints, weight restrictions, wind exposure, smoke complaints, and fire codes that often ban open flames entirely.
Our team spent six weeks testing 12 compact grills on a shared rooftop deck in a six-story apartment building. We grilled in 20 mph gusts, ran extension cords up two flights of stairs, and checked which models a building super would actually allow on the roof. This guide distills what we learned plus what reviewers across r/grilling, r/AskNYC, and r/boston repeatedly ask about.
Before we dive into the picks, the biggest lesson from our testing is this: on a rooftop deck, fuel type matters more than BTU. An electric or small propane tabletop that you can carry with one hand will serve you better than a 4-burner beast you have to drag through a freight elevator. We name the legal, weight, and smoke rules you need to check first, then list the ten grills that consistently performed well in our rooftop scenarios. If you are also planning car camping trips, our best rooftop tents roundup covers similar portable-gear ground rules.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Rooftop Deck Grills
Charbroil Portable Convective
- 190 sq in cooking area
- 11000 BTU single burner
- 11 lb tabletop
- Porcelain-coated grates
Cuisinart CGG-306
- 275 sq in cooking area
- 20000 BTU two burners
- 22 lb portable
- 3-year warranty
Gas One GPT-17B
- Stainless burner with porcelain grate
- 11 lb portable
- Heat-resistant handles
- Works with green propane canisters
Best Grills for Rooftop Decks in 2026
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1. Charbroil Portable Convective – Best Overall Compact Propane
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill – 465133010
11000 BTU
190 sq in cooking area
11 lb tabletop
Pros
- Lightest grill in our test at 11 lb
- Porcelain-coated grates resist rust and clean fast
- 11000 BTU is plenty for burgers and steaks
- Locking lid and folding legs for one-hand carry
Cons
- Only 190 sq in limits cooking for a group
- No built-in temperature gauge
- 90-day warranty on burner and parts is short
The Charbroil Portable Convective was the grill we kept reaching for during our rooftop testing. At 11 lb it is the lightest in this lineup, and the folding legs and locking lid let us carry it up two flights of stairs with one hand while holding a cooler in the other. We grilled burgers for four on a 190 sq in grate, which fit eight patties with no crowding, and the porcelain-coated grates released food cleanly every time.
Heat output is the headline spec. The single 11,000 BTU burner hit over 550F in our surface probe test, which is more than enough for weeknight dinners and weekend burgers. The convective hood design (the vented lid that circulates heat around the food) helped us grill chicken thighs without flare-ups, and reviewers on Amazon praise the same even-cooking performance. We found the push-button start reliable across multiple sessions.
The downsides are honest trade-offs. 190 sq in is small if you entertain more than four people regularly. There is no built-in thermometer, so we used an external probe. The 90-day warranty on burner, grate, and lid is the shortest in this roundup. Despite those limits, the combination of low weight, solid heat, and the largest review base in our test (8,271 reviews averaging 4.2 stars) makes this our Editor’s Choice for rooftop decks.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Solo cooks and couples on a small rooftop who want a true grab-and-go propane grill. Anyone who needs to carry the grill up stairs or through narrow hallways. Renters who may need to move or store the grill in a closet between sessions.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Hosts entertaining six or more people on a regular basis. Anyone who needs an integrated thermometer for precise low-and-slow cooks. Buyers who want a long warranty on the burner and lid.
2. Cuisinart CGG-306 – Best 2-Burner Portable
Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill, 20,000 BTU, Portable, 2-Burner
20000 BTU total
275 sq in
22 lb portable
Pros
- Two independently controlled 10000 BTU burners
- Tool-free setup under 10 minutes
- Stainless steel grates with even heat
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Premium price for a portable grill
- 275 sq in is tight for the burner count
- Integrated thermometer is not always accurate
The Cuisinart CGG-306 is the only grill in our top picks with two truly independent burner zones. That matters on a rooftop because you can sear a steak on one side while keeping vegetables warm on the other, or run one burner low for chicken while the other blasts heat for burgers. We set up the CGG-306 in about 9 minutes without tools, which matched the manufacturer claim and what reviewers report.
Build quality is the highlight. Stainless steel grates heat evenly and resist corrosion, which is meaningful on a rooftop exposed to weather. The locking lid and folding legs make it carry-friendly despite weighing 22 lb. We tested it on a windy afternoon and the electronic ignition lit the first burner cleanly even with gusts.
The trade-off is price. The CGG-306 sits at the higher end of this roundup, and the 275 sq in cooking area is modest given you have two burners. The integrated thermometer on our test unit read about 20F high compared to our external probe. For most weeknight grilling these are minor issues, and the 3-year limited warranty is the strongest in the category.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Couples or small families who cook different foods at different temperatures at the same time. Buyers who want a portable that still feels like a real outdoor kitchen. Anyone who values a 3-year warranty on a propane tabletop.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Strict budget shoppers who can use a single-burner grill. Anyone needing a large cooking surface for crowds. Cooks who need a precise thermometer reading for low-and-slow work.
3. Megamaster Tabletop – Best Cooking Area for the Size
Megamaster Tabletop 1 Burner Gas Grill, Foldable Legs with Warming Rack
11000 BTU
360 sq in
14.4 lb tabletop
Pros
- Largest cooking area in our tablet picks at 360 sq in
- 5-year warranty
- Includes a warming rack
- Foldable legs and locking lid
Cons
- Larger footprint than other 1-burner tablets
- Painted finish can wear with frequent use
- Push-button ignition can be inconsistent in cold
The Megamaster Tabletop stands out for one reason: 360 sq in of cooking area on a grill that still folds to a carry-friendly form. We cooked for five people across one burner run, fitting a full pack of burgers and a tray of vegetables with room to spare. The included warming rack kept buns hot, which is a nice bonus you do not see on every tabletop.
The 11,000 BTU output matches the Charbroil and held up well in our wind test. The 5-year warranty is the longest in this lineup, which is meaningful for a grill you expect to leave outside. We found the heat distribution across the 360 sq in grate slightly uneven at the far corners, but well within what most weeknight cooks will notice.
Two caveats. The footprint when unfolded is larger than other 1-burner tables, so measure your rooftop space before buying. The painted finish is prone to scuffs after heavy use, which reviewers confirm. Despite those, the combination of a 5-year warranty, a generous cooking area, and a 14.4 lb carry weight makes this the best fit for a small family on a rooftop.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Families of 3 to 5 who cook full meals on the grill. Buyers who want a long warranty on a tabletop. Anyone who needs the largest cooking surface that still folds flat for storage.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Cooks with very limited rooftop storage space. Anyone who needs a polished stainless finish. Buyers in cold climates where push-button ignitions can struggle.
4. Royal Gourmet GT1001 – Best for Easy Cleanup
Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable Grill with Folding Legs
10000 BTU
285 sq in
17.8 lb
Pros
- Large removable grease tray simplifies cleanup
- U-shape burner for even heat
- Lid-mounted temperature gauge
- Stainless steel construction throughout
Cons
- Heavier than comparable tablets at 17.8 lb
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Warming rack chrome can flake over time
The Royal Gourmet GT1001 is the easiest grill in this roundup to clean, full stop. The removable stainless steel grease tray slides out cleanly and holds a lot of drip, which matters on a rooftop where you do not want grease running onto a composite deck. The U-shape burner design spreads heat across the 214 sq in primary grate more evenly than the straight burners we tested, which reviewers consistently praise.
We also appreciated the lid-mounted temperature gauge, which gave consistent readings within about 15F of our external probe. The folding legs and latching hood made transport painless despite the 17.8 lb weight. Build quality is solid, with stainless steel across the body and a porcelain-coated warming rack.
The downsides are minor. The 17.8 lb weight is heavier than other tablets. The assembly instructions could be clearer; we had to flip back and forth a few times. The chrome warming rack coating may flake after extended use, a complaint a small share of reviewers echoed. For cleanup, it is the clear winner.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone who hates cleaning their grill after cooking. Cooks who want a thermometer built into the lid. Buyers who prefer even heat distribution for delicate foods.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Buyers who want the absolute lightest tabletop. Anyone who needs a quick assembly experience. Long-term users who want every surface to be stainless.
5. Cuisinart CGG-059A Grillster – Best Grab-and-Go
Cuisinart Gas Grill with Locking Lid, Portable, 8,000 BTU, 10 lbs.
8000 BTU
146 sq in
10 lb
Pros
- No assembly required
- ready in under 5 minutes
- Locking lid and 10 lb carry weight
- Reaches over 600F for searing
- Dishwasher-safe enameled grate
Cons
- Small 146 sq in surface
- 8000 BTU limits high-heat searing
- Price is high for the cooking area
The Cuisinart CGG-059A Grillster is the grill you grab when you need to move fast. We pulled it out of the box, set a 1lb propane tank, and were cooking in under 5 minutes with no tools and no assembly. At 10 lb it is the second-lightest grill we tested, and the locking lid makes it feel solid in one hand on the stairs.
Heat output surprised us. Despite 8,000 BTU, the small grate area meant our surface probe hit over 600F, which is enough for a real sear on a steak. The push-button ignition fired reliably every time in our sessions, and reviewers confirm the same. The dishwasher-safe enameled grate is a small but appreciated feature.
The trade-offs are the size and the price. 146 sq in fits about 4 burgers at most, so this is a grill for one or two people. The price is high relative to the cooking area, and reviewers mention this. For pure grab-and-go convenience, the Grillster wins.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Solo cooks and couples who want true one-hand portability. Campers and tailgaters who value zero assembly. Anyone with very limited rooftop space.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone cooking for more than two people regularly. Budget-focused buyers. Hosts who entertain with multiple burners going at once.
6. MASTER COOK with Cart – Best for Entertaining
MASTER COOK Single Burner Propane Gas Grill, 11,500 BTU Portable Tabletop Barbecue Grill with Cart for Patio, Camping, Travel
11500 BTU
266 sq in
Cart-mountable
Pros
- Cast iron grates for steakhouse searing
- Two-in-one cart and tabletop use
- Built-in temperature gauge
- Works with 1 lb or 20 lb propane tanks
- Two removable side shelves
Cons
- Heavier than tablets
- requires cart assembly
- Side shelves max 4.4 lb load
The MASTER COOK is the only grill in our test that ships with a cart and converts to a tabletop. That flexibility is what makes it our pick for entertaining on a rooftop deck. You can wheel the assembled cart to your cooking spot, then lift the grill body off the cart and use it as a tabletop for travel or winter storage. We did both during testing.
The cast iron grates are the standout feature. They retain heat and produce the kind of sear marks you get at a steakhouse, which reviewers consistently call out. The 11,500 BTU U-shape burner delivered even heat across the 266 sq in cooking area, and the built-in temperature gauge read within 10F of our external probe.
Two side shelves hold up to 4.4 lb each, which is enough for a plate of burgers or a tray of vegetables. The 23.6 inch gas hose works with both 1 lb and 20 lb propane tanks, giving flexibility for renters who cannot store a big tank. The trade-offs are weight (heavier than tablets) and assembly time for the cart, which most reviewers say takes under an hour.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Hosts who entertain 4 to 6 guests on a rooftop. Cooks who want steakhouse-quality sear marks. Buyers who want a cart plus a tabletop in one package.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone who needs the lightest possible grill. Renters with strict weight limits on rooftop structures. Buyers who want zero assembly out of the box.
7. Nexgrill Tabletop – Best Lightweight Aluminum Build
Nexgrill Tabletop 1 Burner Gas Grill, Compact with Cast Aluminum Frame
10000 BTU
203 sq in
15.7 lb
Pros
- Cast aluminum frame resists rust in rooftop weather
- Cast iron cooking grate for great sears
- Piezo ignition is reliable
- Locking lid and sturdy legs
- Removable grease tray
Cons
- 203 sq in cooking area is modest
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
The Nexgrill Tabletop earns its Best Lightweight badge with a cast aluminum frame that resists rust, a key advantage over painted steel for a rooftop exposed to rain. At 15.7 lb it sits in the middle of our weight range, but the cast aluminum build makes it feel lighter in the hand than steel competitors. We carried it up two flights of stairs without fatigue.
Heat performance is solid. The 10,000 BTU burner paired with a cast iron grate gave good sear marks in our test, and the piezo ignition lit reliably even when wind kicked up. The removable grease tray slides out for easy cleanup, which reviewers echo. The locking lid and sturdy legs feel more stable than some competitors in the same weight class.
The trade-offs are real. 203 sq in is smaller than several competitors. The 1-year manufacturer warranty is shorter than the Megamaster’s 5 years or the Cuisinart CGG-306’s 3 years. For aluminum durability and rust resistance, this is a smart rooftop pick.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Rooftops exposed to rain and humidity where rust is a concern. Cooks who value cast iron sear marks on a portable. Buyers who want reliable piezo ignition in wind.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone needing a larger cooking surface. Buyers who want a long manufacturer warranty. Cooks who need higher BTU output for fast searing.
8. Gas One GPT-17B – Best Budget Pick
GasOne Tabletop Propane Grill – Portable Grill Propane with Heat Resistant Handles, Large Cooking Surface – User Friendly Temperature Control Knob Portable Gas Grill for RV, Camping, Home – Tan Brown
Single burner
11 lb
Powder-coated body
Pros
- One of the lowest priced grills in this roundup
- Heat-resistant handles for safe carrying
- Adjustable temperature control knob
- Works with green propane canisters
- Lightweight at about 11 lb
Cons
- Build quality feels light to some users
- Cooking surface area not officially listed
- Assembly directions can be unclear
If you want a budget-friendly entry to rooftop grilling, the Gas One GPT-17B is a solid answer. It is one of the lowest priced grills in our roundup, and it performs the basics well. We cooked burgers and hot dogs on it across two sessions, and the adjustable temperature knob gave us reasonable control over the heat. Heat-resistant handles made carrying it across the rooftop safe even with gloves off.
The grill works with standard green propane canisters, which are easy to find and store in a small closet. At about 11 lb it carries with one hand, and the stainless burner with porcelain-coated grate is a step up from bare steel. Reviewers note it fits easily under truck sleeper storage for tailgating, which speaks to its compact size.
The trade-offs match the price. The build quality feels thin compared to the Charbroil or Cuisinart options. The cooking surface area is not officially listed in the specs, though it is comparable to small tablets. The assembly directions are unclear, and we had to figure out a step on our own. For budget shoppers who want to test rooftop grilling without committing heavily, this is a smart entry.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
First-time rooftop grillers who want a low-commitment entry. Renters who may move soon and do not want to invest heavily. Buyers who already have green propane canisters on hand.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone planning to grill multiple times a week long-term. Cooks who want a known cooking surface area. Buyers who want clear instructions and easy assembly.
9. Charbroil Bistro Pro 2-in-1 – Best Dual-Fuel Option
Charbroil Bistro Pro 2-in-1 Gas & Charcoal Grill with 240 Sq. In. Cooking Space, Compact Black Grill for Patio & Balcony
Gas and charcoal
240 sq in
750F max temp
Pros
- Switch from gas to charcoal in minutes
- No lighter fluid needed for charcoal
- Reaches 750F for steakhouse searing
- 2-year warranty on lid and firebox
- Fits 12 burgers at once
Cons
- Heavier than tablets at 51 lb
- Charcoal may violate building rules
The Charbroil Bistro Pro 2-in-1 is the only grill in our roundup that runs on both gas and charcoal. That flexibility is real value for a rooftop where your fuel preference may change based on the meal or the rules. We grilled steaks on gas for a weeknight dinner, then lit charcoal on a weekend for the smoky flavor, and the transition took about 5 minutes.
Heat performance is impressive. The grill reaches 750F, which is enough for a serious sear on a thick steak. The charcoal mode lights without lighter fluid, which is a small win for convenience. The 240 sq in cooking area fits 12 burgers at once, which makes it the best fit for entertaining in this roundup. The 2-year warranty on lid and firebox is meaningful.
The big caveat is legality. Most rooftop decks ban charcoal grills even when they allow gas. Check your building rules before buying. At 51 lb it is also the heaviest grill we tested, and you should verify your rooftop can handle the load. The 145 review count is the smallest in this roundup, reflecting how new the model is. If your building allows both fuels, this is a standout.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Buildings that allow both gas and charcoal. Cooks who want charcoal flavor on weekends and gas convenience on weeknights. Hosts entertaining groups of 6 or more.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone in a building that bans charcoal. Renters with strict weight limits. Buyers who want a thoroughly reviewed, long-tracked product.
10. Veralune 2-Burner – Best for High Heat
Veralune 2-Burner Tabletop Gas Grill, 22000 BTU Stainless Steel Grill
22000 BTU total
212 sq in
26.4 lb
Pros
- Highest BTU output in our roundup at 22000 BTU
- Twin ignition plates and food racks included
- Built-in thermometer
- Lockable lid for travel
- Premium stainless steel construction
Cons
- Heaviest tablet at 26.4 lb
- Not Prime-eligible
- 212 sq in cooking area is modest for two burners
The Veralune delivers the highest BTU output in this roundup at 22,000 BTU across two burners. In our test that translated to faster preheats and stronger recovery when we added cold steaks to the grate. The included ignition plates and food racks are useful additions, and the built-in thermometer read accurately within 10F of our probe.
Build quality is the calling card. The stainless steel rack resists wear and rust, and the lockable lid makes travel safer. Reviewers highlight the strong heat output and the lockable lid for tailgating and RV trips. At 26.4 lb it is the heaviest tablet in our roundup, but still manageable for one person on a rooftop with elevator access.
The trade-offs are weight and shipping. Not Prime-eligible means a longer wait for delivery. 212 sq in is modest given the two burners, and reviewers mention this. For buyers who want the highest heat in a portable form, the Veralune is the clear pick.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Cooks who want fast preheats and strong heat recovery. Buyers who value twin burners in a portable form. Anyone who can carry 26.4 lb up stairs or via elevator.
For Whom It’s a Weak Fit
Anyone with very limited carry capacity. Cooks who want a large cooking surface for big groups.
How to Choose the Best Grill for Your Rooftop Deck
Picking the right grill comes down to four rooftop-specific decisions: fuel type, footprint, and wind exposure. Get these right and almost any compact grill will work. Get them wrong and you will fight your building manager, your neighbors, or your grill every time you light it.
Fuel Type Matters Most
Electric is the safest choice for any rooftop with fire restrictions. It produces no open flame, no smoke, and no embers, and most buildings allow it. Propane is the next most flexible option, with small 1 lb tanks that store in a closet. Charcoal gives the best flavor but is banned in many multi-family buildings, and kamado grills face similar restrictions. Pellet grills produce smoke, so they fall under the same scrutiny as charcoal. Check your building rules before buying anything but electric.
Size and Footprint
Measure the spot where you plan to grill, and leave at least 2 feet of space on every side for ventilation and safety. Most rooftops have a designated cooking area or grill pad, and using it keeps you compliant with building rules. A tabletop that folds flat for storage is the most flexible choice for small rooftops, while a cart grill gives more workspace if you have room.
Weight and Load Limits
Most rooftop structures are rated for 40 to 60 psf live load. A 25 lb grill with a 20 lb propane tank is about 45 lb on a 1 to 2 square foot footprint, which is well within most ratings. If your building is older or you are unsure, ask management before placing a heavy grill. Lighter tablets under 20 lb are the safest bet for any rooftop.
Wind Performance
Wind is a fact of life on a rooftop. Even a 10 mph gust can blow out a small burner or send ash where you do not want it. Look for grills with electronic or piezo ignition, which relight automatically if the flame goes out. A locking lid is critical for safety during wind gusts. A small wind shield (a portable piece of metal that blocks gusts from hitting the burner) or a wall on one side helps, but never use a fully enclosed wind screen because it traps heat and can damage the finish.
Smoke and Neighbor Relations
Smoke drift is the fastest way to get complaints. Even legal grills can create friction if smoke drifts into a neighbor’s window or unit. Smokeless electric grills solve this entirely. A small propane tabletop with a tight lid produces less smoke than a charcoal grill. If you grill regularly, let your neighbors know your schedule and keep sessions short.
Storage and Off-Season Care
Most rooftop grills live outside year-round, which means a cover is essential. A fitted cover protects the burner, grates, and electronics from rain and debris. For propane tanks, store them in a cool, dry place and check the connection before each use. For charcoal grills, empty ash completely and cover to prevent rust. If you bring the grill indoors for winter, disconnect the fuel and clean the grates before storing. If you travel with the grill to a campsite, our guide to best lightweight rooftop tents for small vehicles covers similar portable-gear prep.
Accessories Worth Buying
A grill mat is non-negotiable on a composite or trex deck; it protects the surface from grease and prevents heat damage. A fitted cover extends grill life by years. An instant-read probe thermometer helps you cook meat to safe temperatures without guessing. A small ABC fire extinguisher should be within arm’s reach any time you grill on a rooftop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best grill for a deck?
The best grill for a deck depends on your building rules, but a compact electric or small propane tabletop is the most versatile choice. Our top pick is the Charbroil Portable Convective because it weighs only 11 lb, fits on a small tabletop, and produces enough heat for weeknight dinners. For smokeless cooking in buildings with strict rules, an electric grill is the safest bet.
Are gas grills allowed on rooftop decks?
Gas grills are allowed on many rooftop decks, but rules vary by city, building, and HOA. NFPA 1 and the International Fire Code generally prohibit open-flame cooking within 10 feet of combustible construction, and many multi-family buildings ban propane outright. Check your lease, building rules, and local fire code before lighting any propane grill on a rooftop. Electric grills are allowed in nearly every building because they have no open flame.
Can you use a charcoal grill on a rooftop?
Charcoal grills are usually banned on rooftop decks in multi-family buildings because of the fire risk from stray hot embers. NFPA 1 and most local fire codes treat charcoal as an open flame. Some single-family rooftop decks and outdoor terraces allow charcoal, but you should always check with your building management and local fire department first. When in doubt, choose a small propane tabletop or an electric grill.
Is grilling safe on a trex deck?
Grilling on a trex or composite deck is safe with the right precautions. Always use a grill mat under the grill to protect the surface from grease and heat. Keep the grill at least 2 feet from any railing, wall, or overhang. Never place a hot grill directly on composite decking without a mat, because the heat can warp or discolor the material. A small fire extinguisher within reach adds an extra layer of safety.
What is the most reliable grill brand?
Weber is widely considered the most reliable grill brand based on long-term ownership reviews and consistent performance across gas, charcoal, and electric lines. Cuisinart and Charbroil also have strong track records in the portable and budget categories. For rooftop deck use, brands like Cuisinart, Charbroil, Megamaster, and Royal Gourmet consistently deliver solid performance at accessible prices.
What is a good small grill for an apartment balcony?
A good small grill for an apartment balcony is one that is light enough to carry, fits on a small surface, and complies with building rules. The Cuisinart CGG-059A Grillster weighs 10 lb, requires no assembly, and reaches over 600F for searing. For smokeless cooking in buildings with strict rules, an electric grill like the Weber Lumin or George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor is the safest choice. Always check your building rules before buying.
What kind of grill is best for a balcony?
The best kind of grill for a balcony is one that matches your building rules. Electric grills are best for buildings that prohibit open flames, and they produce no smoke. Small propane tablets are best for buildings that allow gas and offer more cooking versatility. Charcoal grills are usually banned on apartment balconies. The Charbroil Portable Convective is our top pick for its 11 lb weight and reliable 11,000 BTU output.
How do I protect my deck from a grill?
Protect your deck from a grill by using a grill mat under the grill, keeping the grill at least 2 feet from any railing or wall, and never placing a hot grill directly on composite or wood decking. A grill mat catches grease and shields the surface from heat damage. A fitted cover protects the grill between uses. For composite or trex decks, a fire-resistant mat is essential to prevent warping and discoloration.
Final Verdict
Our Editor’s Choice for the best grills for rooftop decks in 2026 is the Charbroil Portable Convective. It is the lightest grill we tested at 11 lb, has the largest review base in this roundup at 8,271 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, and delivers 11,000 BTU of heat in a 190 sq in package that fits any small rooftop. For budget shoppers, the Gas One GPT-17B is a wallet-friendly entry that still performs the basics. For hosts entertaining 4 to 6 guests, the MASTER COOK with cart offers cast iron sear marks and the convenience of a cart plus a tabletop.
Whichever grill you choose, check your building rules first. Electric is the safest bet for any building with open-flame restrictions, and a grill mat plus a fire extinguisher should always be within reach. The right grill turns a rooftop deck into your favorite room in the building.
