Salamander grills are a must-have in any busy commercial kitchen, delivering powerful overhead heat for browning, finishing, and melting in seconds. Whether you’re a chef looking to perfect steaks and gratins or a business owner choosing the right catering equipment, our expert FAQ answers the most common questions about salamander grills.

1. What is a salamander grill used for?

A salamander grill is designed for intense overhead heat, perfect for browning, toasting, finishing, or melting cheese. Unlike a standard oven or grill, it provides quick, high-temperature exposure for final touches in professional kitchens.

2. What is the difference between a salamander grill and a standard grill?

A standard grill usually cooks from below, whereas a salamander grill uses powerful overhead heat. This makes salamanders ideal for finishing dishes quickly rather than cooking large meals from raw.

3. What is the difference between a salamander grill and a broiler or charbroiler?

A broiler or charbroiler typically cooks with heat from below or both sides, whereas a salamander focuses on intense top-down heat. This allows chefs to crisp and finish food without overcooking the interior.

4. Can you cook a steak in a salamander grill?

Yes, salamander grills are excellent for finishing or searing steaks. They deliver high heat for caramelising the surface while keeping the inside juicy, but full steak cooking is better with a combination of searing and oven cooking.

5. Why do chefs call a grill a salamander?

The name “salamander” comes from the legendary fire-dwelling lizard and the intense heat these grills produce. Professional kitchens have used the term for centuries to describe these extremely hot, top-fired grills.

6. Why do they call an oven a salamander?

Some kitchens refer to small, top-heating ovens as salamanders due to their compact size and fiery performance. The term has become synonymous with specialist high-heat finishing equipment.

7. What food is typically cooked in a salamander?

Popular uses include:
  • Melting cheese on gratins, pizzas, or nachos
  • Toasting bread or buns for service
  • Browning lasagne, casseroles, and au gratin dishes
  • Finishing steaks or fish to a restaurant-quality sear

8. Can I use a salamander grill to melt cheese or reheat food?

Yes, salamanders are perfect for melting cheese and reheating individual dishes quickly. However, they’re not intended for bulk reheating or slow cooking.

9. Can a salamander grill be wall-mounted?

Many commercial salamander grills are wall-mountable or pass-through models, making them easy to install above cooklines. Always check the manufacturer’s installation guide for safety and ventilation requirements.

10. Do I need a vent or extractor for a salamander grill?

Most commercial salamanders require extraction or positioning under a canopy because of the high heat and potential smoke. Always confirm your local catering regulations and manufacturer guidelines.

Looking for the best Salamander Grill for your kitchen?

Explore our full range of Commercial Salamander Grills and discover expert advice in our Salamander Grill Buying Guide to choose the perfect model for your business.