Setting Up the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle: What to Expect

Getting started with the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is straightforward — but there are a few things worth knowing before you open the box. Here's what to expect.

What We Think, Straight Up

The Lodge reversible griddle is two tools in one. Flat side for pancakes and eggs; ridged side for steak and vegetables. It's the breakfast and dinner workhorse.

If you've been on the fence, here's how we'd frame it: the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is designed for anyone who loves pancakes on one side and charred grill marks on the other. If that's you, it's very likely the right choice. If it's not, there's probably a better fit at a lower price point.

The Performance

We ran the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle through daily use across several weeks. The things that impressed us most are the ones listed below — not the marketing claims, the actual experience of using it regularly.

There's a difference between products that sound good in spec sheets and ones that feel right in practice. The Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is in the second group.

What We Love

• Flat side for pancakes, eggs, bacon
• Ridged side for searing and grill marks
• Works on gas, electric, and induction
• Pre-seasoned
• Covers two burners — cooks large batches

Room for Improvement

• Heavy at 7 lbs
• Takes up significant storage space
• Ridged side requires more cleaning effort

Who Should Buy It

This is for anyone who loves pancakes on one side and charred grill marks on the other. If that's you — buy it. The Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is one of those products where you'll look back and wonder why you waited.

If you're on the fence because of price, consider how often you'll use it. Most quality purchases amortise down to almost nothing over their lifespan.

The Value Question

At $44.90, the Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle sits at the higher end of the category. Our take: it's priced correctly for what it is. There are cheaper options. They are cheaper for a reason.

We've tested the alternatives. The Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is the one we kept.

Our Verdict

The short answer: yes. The Lodge Cast Iron Reversible Grill/Griddle is our recommended pick for anyone who loves pancakes on one side and charred grill marks on the other. It's well-built, performs as advertised, and we haven't found anything at this price point that beats it.

Buy it. Use it. You'll stop second-guessing the purchase within a week.