Why a Steel Griddle for Grill Elevates Wood-Fired Cooking

Introduction

Grilling over gas or electric may be convenient, but anyone who's truly passionate about flavor knows there's a major drawback: the heat. Standard gas grills struggle to exceed 450°F, which is far too low for the high-heat sear that transforms a good steak into a great one. That critical transformation is achieved through the Maillard reaction—a chemical process that only occurs when surface temperatures hit around 550°F and beyond. Foods like thick-cut steaks, juicy hamburgers, or smoky bone-in chops reach their full potential only when seared over intense wood flames. Try getting that on a gas grill—it’s nearly impossible. That’s why the Arteflame grill, which easily exceeds 1,000°F, is redefining backyard grilling and bringing steakhouse-quality results home with the upgrade of a steel griddle for your grill.

Why Wood-Fired Grills Win

There’s a reason why grilling purists and top chefs often swear by wood fire—it’s all about performance, taste, and tradition. If you already own a gas grill, adding a wood-fired grill like the Arteflame doesn’t replace it—it perfects it. Here’s why doubling up on your grill options actually transforms your cooking game.

1. Unmatched Heat for True Searing

The Maillard effect—the process that caramelizes meat proteins to form that signature crust—needs temperatures upward of 550°F. Most gas grills max out at around 450°F, even with the lid closed. This is adequate for slow grilling or cooking vegetables, but it's not enough for meat perfection.

Arteflame grills hit up to 1,000°F across the fire bowl and flat-top grill surface (plancha). This opens up intense heat zones ideal for a fast sear while also offering cooler areas suitable for finishing your meats to the perfect doneness. No more dry, overly cooked steaks; just beautifully charred exteriors and juicy, tender interiors—like you'd find in a high-end steakhouse.

2. Ultimate Flavor Infusion

Nothing compares to the deep, smoky flavor seared in by real hardwood fire. Wood smoke infuses food with those subtle complexities you can never fake with propane or electric burners. Arteflame lets you use a variety of hardwoods—apple, cherry, hickory, or oak—each lending its own aromatic fingerprint to meats, seafood, and even vegetables.

• Perfectly seared tomahawk steaks
• Char-grilled burgers with a smoke ring
• Sticky ribs kissed by flames
• Flame-blistered shishito peppers
• Smoked seared salmon filets

These are just a taste of what’s easily unattainable with conventional grills.

3. Versatility with Steel Griddle Plates

The Arteflame’s steel cooktop plancha isn't just for steaks. It's a multi-zone cooking surface where you can fry eggs, sauté veggies, or grill delicate fish without flareups. The thick carbon steel only gets better with seasoning—just like cast iron—making it a griddle-lover’s dream.

Because the plancha surrounds the central fire bowl, you get a 360° cooking zone with varying temperatures—from searing hot center to medium outer ring—all on one surface. On a gas grill, you’d need multiple burners and accessories to attempt that (with less flavor, at that).

4. Dual-Grilling Powerhouse

You don’t have to ditch your gas grill to enjoy the benefits of a wood-fired Arteflame setup. Use your gas grill for weekday convenience or indirect roasting, and fire up the Arteflame when flavor and presentation matter. Hosting a party? Grill steaks on the plancha while your gas grill handles side dishes or keeps food warm.

The combo opens up endless possibilities:

• Reverse sear on gas, finish on wood fire
• Smoky appetizers on wood, mains on gas
• Plancha brunch with wood heat while toasting buns on gas

Max flavor. Full versatility.

5. Artisan Craftsmanship & Durability

Arteflame grills are built from weather-resistant Corten steel with a high-end carbon steel cooktop. With proper care, the cooking surface gets naturally nonstick over time. And unlike unstable propane parts or rust-prone grates, Arteflame is made to last for decades.

The sleek design doubles as a conversation-starting centerpiece in your backyard. It’s functional art, engineered for performance and elegance. Every Arteflame is made in the USA, handcrafted for those who value authenticity as much as flavor.

6. Cooking Experience & Social Grilling

Grilling is more than a cooking method—it's a social ritual. The Arteflame’s open, circular design encourages guests to gather ’round and interact. It’s not hidden behind a lid or sequestered in a corner. It becomes the experience centerpiece, offering engaging, do-it-yourself grilling while amplifying aromas and interaction.

Unlike a gas grill with a closed lid, the Arteflame invites you—visually and aromatically—into its cooking world. It's like cooking over a campfire, elevated.

Conclusion

Every gas grill has its place, but it does have its limits. If you crave more flavor, intense heat, and the ability to replicate restaurant-quality searing and versatility, then the addition of a wood-fired grill like the Arteflame is a must. It reaches the high temperatures required for the Maillard reaction, giving your meats that unforgettable crust and juicy center—all while infusing your food with the wood-fired depth gas just can’t achieve.

The Arteflame is 100% made in the USA, precision-crafted from premium materials, built to last a lifetime, and designed to turn your backyard into a premium outdoor kitchen. Whether you're feeding a family of four or hosting the entire block, the Arteflame steel griddle for grill delivers flavor, fire, and unforgettable food. It’s not just an addition—it’s a transformation.