Bought this to replace a similar sized grill by a different, name brand, manufacturer, so I'm familiar with these large grills.
The last grill worked well for several years, but the non-stick coating eventually deteriorated into an everything-sticks coating, and it was time for a replacement.
Pros: Over sized cooking surface area, Non-stick surface appears to be good quality, Tilt n Drain feature, Fairly consistent surface temperature.
Cons: Expensive
1. The large cooking surface makes this our go to griddle when family/friends gather. Be aware that the large size requires additional storage space (obviously). If there is enough height available in your cupboard/shelf it can be stored on edge to reduce space requirements.
2. The non-stick surface appears to be good quality, and so far is performing as expected. Time will determine the durability.
** I seasoned the cooking surface prior to first use, and will season again occasionally. (web search for info on seasoning non-stick surfaces)
3. Tilt n Drain feature is really handy for reducing grease collection on the cooking surface. The front of the grill tips forward a few degrees when you pull out on the side handles. I have noticed the the handles will "push" out, allowing the griddle to tilt, if moderate downward pressure is applied to the griddle surface (i.e. when working with foods on the griddle) Placing the griddle on a non-slippery surface would likely help.
4. I used an infrared temperature gun to monitor the temperature of the cooking surface. It takes a good 20+ minute warm up period to allow the heat to migrate evenly throughout the large surface of this griddle. Once thoroughly warmed up the cooking surface maintains a fairly consistent temperature over the majority of the surface area. There are "cooler" spots on the far edges of the corners.
5. Once the thermostat has cycled a few times, and the griddle is adequately warmed up, the thermostat does a decent job of maintaining the temperature within about 10 degrees F of the set point.
**NOTE** all temperature monitoring was done on an empty griddle surface, with no food cooking.
6. The price of this griddle is higher than some competitive offerings. The quality appears good, and so far I'm pleased with the performance.Time will determine if it was worth the extra $$.
| Brand | Presto |
|---|---|
| Model Number | FBA_7046 |
| Colour | Black |
| Product Dimensions | 60.81 x 13 x 46.99 cm; 3.18 kg |
| Power/Wattage | 1500 watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Material | Aluminum, Non-stick |
| Special Features | Temperature Control |
| Item Weight | 3.18 kg |
