Doesn't justify its price
The distinguishing feature of this unit, the Bodum Bistro 11133 electric table grill, is that the big plate that heats up is smooth on one side and "ribbed" on the other. The smooth, or griddle, side is for items such as eggs and pancakes and hash browns, whereas the the ribbed, or grill, side is for, say, burgers or steaks or chops, where you want to sear in those pretty and ever-flavorful grill marks that result from the ever-wonderful Maillard Reaction. You choose which side to use by simply flipping the plate over. It's designed so you can't flip it without unplugging the controller. Also, there's a simple mechanical device that prevents you from using the device unless the drip tray is installed.
Both sides of the plate are covered in a non-stick coating, and both sides measure 14-5/8 inches by 9-1/8 inches, or 133.45 square inches, which is on the small side if you're cooking for six. A similar product I own, made by Presto, measures 14-1/4 by 18-3/4, or 267.19...
FANTASTIC grill but a bit overpriced
This was a tough review to write. On the one hand, my Mom LOVED this grill. On the other hand, it is WAY over priced for what you get, at retail, or even with Amazon's discount.
The idea is great: an indoor grill that has a griddle on one side and a traditional grooved grill on the other. And, it is incredibly easy to switch between the two plates. You quite literally lift and flip (see my pictures). The grill plate cannot be flipped while plugged in, which decreases the chance of trying to flip while it's still hot. And, it was easy to clean, by hand, and in the dishwasher - we tried both. The non-stick surface is exactly that, and while a larger surface would have been nice, this also fits comfortably on a countertop without taking up too much room. It's not too heavy either, so it can be moved around with ease. Plus, it comes in several colors to go with most any kitchen.
We tried several foods on this. My mom grilled T-Bones, Mahi Mahi, scallops and...
It does the job, but not overly impressed.
I got this and thought, "Oh, cool, one appliance for two jobs, and should be easy to clean up instead." Ok, it does the job of two appliances semi-ok, but the cleanup is iffy and you need to pay attention to what you're thinking about cooking on it. Though the description emphasizes cooking right at the table, I wouldn't advise it unless you're going to cook something that is splatter free. I wouldn't try the suggested bacon, except in the case where you want everyone at the table coated in grease droplets. Pancakes, eggs, veggies, and anything that doesn't normally send hot oil particles flying are ok. Cooking up some ground beef, sausages, bacon, and the like, is not so good an idea due to their fat content. Even the manual points out that you should be using "quality meat" with this grill.
While you might be thinking, "I can just turn the heat down and it will be ok," let me warn you, there is no temperature guide on this thing. The temperature control dial...
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