Not Sponsored. Just Honest.
After 90 days of use, here’s my honest take on the Char-Broil Bistro Pro Tabletop Gas Grill. Bottom line?
I like it, but I don’t love it. For a portable gas grill, it’s one of the lightest in its class, which makes it appealing for tailgates, campsites, and overlanding setups. But weight doesn’t always lean into perfection.
The stainless grilling surface looked impressive right out of the box, and it does a great job holding heat evenly. But here’s the rub: it’s tough to clean, and no matter how careful you are, the food sometimes carries that faint charred taste—even when it isn’t burned.
At around $150, though, it’s a darn solid buy. I’d give it a 3-star rating out of 5. It’s reliable, powerful, and portable — but it won’t replace your home setup, and cleanup is where it loses points.
Specs: Bistro Pro Tabletop Gas Grill
Sometimes, you just need the numbers. Here’s what you’re getting:
- Max Heat: 600 °F (serious searing capability)
- Cooking Area: ~180 sq in (fits ~8 burgers)
- Burner: Single stainless steel, 9,000 BTU
- Grates: Stainless steel, durable but hard to clean
- Ignition: In-line fuel knob piezo igniter
- Thermometer: Lid-mounted gauge
- Cleanup: Removable grease cup
- Weight: ~25 lb, portable but sturdy
See the Bistro Pro Tabletop Grill here
Note: As of the writing of this post, this model seems to be out of stock in many places. (discontinued?) A patio stand-up version in available for ~$250.
Living With It for 90 Days
- Cooking Experience: Burgers, brats, and even veggies cook evenly. No cold zones, no wasted propane.
- Heat Control: Responsive burner, though the single burner design limits flexibility (think one big heat zone, not two).
- Portability: At 25 pounds, it’s not ultralight, but it’s manageable for truck tailgates and campsite benches.
- Cleanup: The stainless grates look premium but are a pain after messy cooks. Bring a stiff brush and patience.
Competitor Comparison: Bistro Pro vs. Weber Q vs. Coleman RoadTrip
Portable grills aren’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s how the Bistro Pro stacks up against two of the most popular alternatives:
| Feature | Char-Broil Bistro Pro | Weber Q1200 | Coleman RoadTrip 285 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$150 | ~$259 | ~$319 |
| Cooking Area | 180 sq in | 189 sq in | 285 sq in |
| Burners | 1 (9,000 BTU) | 1 (8,500 BTU) | 3 (20,000 BTU total) |
| Weight | 25 lbs | 31 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Portability | Medium | High | Low (bulkier) |
| Cleanup | Tricky (stainless grates) | Easier (porcelain-enameled grates) | OK (cast iron, requires seasoning) |
Affiliate Picks:
- 👉 Char-Broil Bistro Pro Patio Grill
- 👉 Weber Q1200 Portable Gas Grill
- 👉 Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
Verdict:
- The Bistro Pro is the best value-for-size option under $200.
- The Weber Q1200 has a better rep for cleanup and long-term durability, but costs more.
- The Coleman RoadTrip 285 wins on versatility with three burners, but it’s heavy and expensive.
For overlanding and tailgating, the Bistro Pro holds its own. If you’re a gear minimalist, Weber might edge it out. If you want to cook for a small army, Coleman is your rig.
Who It’s For
- Overlanders & Tailgaters: Big enough to feed a group, small enough to ride in the rig.
- Budget-Minded Buyers: At $150, it punches above its weight in build and size.
- Casual Grillers: If you need a secondary setup for trips and don’t mind scrubbing, it’s a win.
Not for: Anyone expecting “home grill” convenience or a no-mess cleanup.
bottom line
The Char-Broil Bistro Pro Tabletop Gas Grill is a solid 3-star piece of gear. It’s powerful, fairly priced, and portable enough for most adventures. But it won’t wow you in the long run if easy cleanup and perfect flavor are your top priorities.
I’ll keep it in the kit for tailgates and weekend trips—but for weeklong overlanding, I’ll likely pair it with a cast iron over the Coleman Camp Stove.
Disclaimer: This review is not sponsored. Just my 90-day, boots-on-the-ground experience.
Tread Lightly and Gladiator Up! – Doug
(treadlightly.org)
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