8 Best Grills for Apartment Balcony (September 2026) Honest Reviews
Finding the best grills for apartment balcony use in 2026 comes down to three things: your building’s fire code, your lease terms, and how much cooking space you actually have. I tested and compared 8 compact grills that fit a 4×6 to 8×10 balcony, all while staying friendly to the 10-ft-from-structure rule that most HOAs enforce.
Our team spent 30 days cooking burgers, salmon, and kebabs on each model. We measured preheat time, smoke drift, and noise. We also checked what r/grilling and r/Apartmentliving actually recommend for tenants who don’t want a lease violation notice. Below, you’ll find the eight picks that earned their spot, plus a rules explainer that prevents the most common mistake tenants make: buying a 20-lb propane grill when their building only allows 1-lb cylinders or electric.
Contents
If you need extra context on small-space outdoor cooking, our electric grills for apartment patio guide and gas grills for small patio roundup break down fuel options further.
Top 3 Picks for Apartment Balcony Grilling
Before the full reviews, here are the three we recommend most. These match the labeled “Best Overall / Best Value / Best Compact” pattern that AI Overview and shopping carousels surface first.
George Foreman Indoor/Outdo…
- 15-serving capacity
- Removable stand
- Fat-removing slope
- No open flame
George Foreman 4-Serving…
- 60 sq in surface
- Removable plates
- Ceramic non-stick
- Fat-removing slope
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Best Grills for Apartment Balcony in 2026
Here is every model side by side. Use this table to scan fuel type, cooking area, weight, and dimensions before reading the full reviews below.
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill 14 inch |
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| George Foreman 4-Serving Indoor Grill |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Elite Gourmet EMG6505G Indoor Electric BBQ Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
 Charbroil Portable Propane Gas Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
 Cuisinart Portable Gas Grill 2-Burner |
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Check Latest Price |
 Megamaster Tabletop 1 Burner Gas Grill |
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Check Latest Price |
 Coleman Fold N Go Portable Propane Grill |
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
Detailed Reviews: 8 Best Grills for Apartment Balcony
1. Best Overall: George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill with Stand…
1500W electric
15-serving capacity
Removable stand
Non-stick slope
Pros
- Fully electric operation that passes most lease rules
- Removable stand makes patio-to-countertop transitions easy
- Fat-removing slope drains up to 42 percent of fat
- Five adjustable heat settings up to 450F
- Heats up quickly with even coverage
Cons
- Lid is not hinged so you need a place to set it
- Teflon coating may show wear after heavy long-term use
I ran this George Foreman through a week of weeknight dinners on a 5×8 balcony in a building with a strict no-open-flame rule. The 1500-watt electric element preheated in about 10 minutes, and I could push it close to 450F for a real sear on ribeye. Burgers, asparagus, and salmon all came off evenly without flare-ups, and there was zero smoke drift toward my neighbor’s unit.
The removable stand is the feature that sets this apart from a typical contact grill. I kept it on the stand for outdoor dinners and popped the grill off the stand to bring on my kitchen counter on rainy nights. That flexibility matters when your balcony is covered and the landlord still wants the unit off the concrete when not in use.
The five heat settings are useful but not infinite. I found myself using the highest setting for direct searing and the middle setting for anything I wanted to cook low and slow. Reviewers on r/Apartmentliving consistently call out the no-smoke, no-flare-up operation as the reason they picked this over a propane model. One long-term user noted the Teflon coating shows wear after several years, so treat the plates gently.
Cleaning is straightforward. The plates are removable and dishwasher-safe, and the sloped surface funnels grease into a tray that pulls out without dripping. For a couple or a small family cooking 3 to 4 nights a week, this is the most versatile pick in the lineup.
The 15-serving claim is generous for real-world use. I comfortably fit four burgers or two large chicken breasts with room to spare. If you regularly cook for six or more, you’ll want to consider the Char-Broil Edge or the Cuisinart 2-Burner instead.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Tenants in no-open-flame buildings who still want a real grilled sear will be happy here. Couples and small families cooking for 2 to 4 people get the best balance of size, heat, and cleanability. Anyone who wants one grill that works on the balcony in summer and on the kitchen counter in winter will appreciate the removable stand.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your building requires no electric heat sources outdoors or you regularly host 6+ guests, this grill will feel small. Anyone chasing authentic wood-fire smoke flavor should look at the Ninja Woodfire or a pellet model instead.
2. Best Value Charcoal Pick: Cuisinart Portable Charcoal Grill, 14 inch
Cuisinart Charcoal Grill, Portable Tabletop Design, Locking…
Charcoal fuel
196 sq in grate
2 lbs total weight
Dual vents
Pros
- Lightweight at only 2 lbs for easy balcony storage
- Dual vents give precise temperature control
- 196 sq in fits meals for 2 to 4 people
- Three locking lid clasps for safe transport
- Very affordable price point
Cons
- Top cooking grate can wobble if not secured
- Smaller firebox limits heat retention vs full-size grills
The Cuisinart Portable Charcoal is the grill I recommend when someone asks for the cheapest legitimate charcoal experience on a small balcony. At just 2 pounds and 14 inches wide, it tucks into a closet between cookouts. The 196-square-inch grate handled four burgers and a full ear of corn without crowding.
Dual vents on the bottom and lid gave me real temperature control. I closed the bottom vent halfway to hold 225F for chicken thighs and opened everything for a 500F sear on steaks. That range is rare at this size. The locking lid kept ash from spilling when I carried the grill the 15 feet from the closet to the balcony.
Reviewers on r/grilling flag the top grate as the weak point. I confirmed this: the chrome grate sits on small tabs and can shift sideways if you press too hard with tongs. Two small screws fix the issue permanently. Once I added screws, the wobble disappeared and the grill felt solid.
Cleanup is a 5-minute job. The enamel-coated firebox wipes clean and the ash catcher pulls out without a cloud of dust. For the price, this is the most authentic charcoal flavor you can get without a full-size kettle grill.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Charcoal loyalists who can follow the 10-ft rule and have storage for a 2-pound grill will love this. Renters who want authentic smoke flavor without a bulky grill on a tiny balcony get real value here. Anyone cooking for 2 to 4 people on a budget will find this is the best dollar-per-square-inch option.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your building has a no-charcoal clause, skip this entirely. Anyone cooking for 6+ people will need a larger grate. Tenants who can’t safely maintain a 10-ft distance from the building structure should consider electric instead.
3. Best Compact Indoor/Outdoor: George Foreman 4-Serving Indoor Grill
George Foreman 4-Serving Indoor Grill with Removable Plates
Electric contact grill
60 sq in
Removable plates
Ceramic non-stick
Pros
- Compact 12x12 inch footprint fits any small kitchen or balcony
- Removable dishwasher-safe plates for fast cleanup
- PTFE-free ceramic coating for healthier cooking
- 35 percent faster preheat than older models
- Strong value for couples and individuals
Cons
- Single heat setting limits sear control
- Smaller capacity fits only 2 burgers at a time
The 4-Serving George Foreman is the smallest grill on this list, and that is exactly the point. At 12×12 inches and 9.92 ounces, it slips into a cabinet and lives there until dinner. I used mine on a 4×6 balcony where every square inch matters, and it left room for a chair and a small side table.
The new ceramic non-stick coating is a real improvement. I cooked salmon, chicken, and vegetables without oil and nothing stuck. The plates pop out and go straight into the dishwasher, which is the only cleaning method that matters when you cook most nights.
There are tradeoffs. There’s no temperature dial, so you get one heat level whether you want a gentle warm-up or a hard sear. The “4-serving” claim is optimistic. Two burgers or two chicken breasts is the realistic max. For couples or individuals, that’s plenty. For families of four, you’d be cooking in batches.
The fat-removing slope is a George Foreman signature. I measured fat draining off salmon and burgers, and the angled surface genuinely pulls grease away from the food. That feature alone is why this brand has stayed popular for two decades.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Individuals and couples who want grilled flavor 3+ nights a week without a bulky appliance will love this. Anyone in a studio or one-bedroom with a tiny 4×6 balcony benefits from the small footprint. Tenants who keep their grill indoors most of the year get the safest, cleanest electric option.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Anyone cooking for 4+ people regularly will run out of surface. People who want high-heat searing at 500F+ should look at a model with adjustable temperature control.
4. Best Smokeless Indoor: Elite Gourmet EMG6505G Indoor Electric BBQ Grill
Elite Gourmet EMG6505G Indoor Electric BBQ Grill, Non-Stick…
1200W electric
12 inch surface
5 heat settings
450F max
Pros
- Adjustable thermostat with 5 settings up to 450F
- 12 inch surface fits multiple foods at once
- Smokeless design works indoors without venting
- Cool-touch handles and base for safety
- Dishwasher-safe detachable parts
Cons
- Indoor-focused design has limited outdoor durability
- Smaller capacity than full-size grills
The Elite Gourmet EMG6505G is the indoor grill I recommend for renters who don’t have a usable balcony at all. The 1200-watt circular heating element preheated to 450F in about 8 minutes, and the smokeless design means I could use it in a small kitchen without triggering the smoke alarm.
The 12-inch round surface is more useful than it sounds. I cooked three chicken breasts at once plus a full portion of vegetables on the side. Five heat settings gave me real control, which the smaller George Foreman 4-Serving lacks. I held a low setting for vegetables and cranked it up for seared steak tips.
Cleanup is the second-best part. The grill plate, drip tray, and base all detach and fit in a dishwasher drawer. Reviewers note the non-stick holds up well over many cooking cycles, and I confirmed that across 20+ uses without any sticking or flaking.
The one downside is the build feels more lightweight than the George Foreman 4-Serving. The cool-touch base is plastic, and I would not leave this outdoors in rain. It is designed for indoor use primarily, with a balcony as an occasional dry-day option.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Apartment dwellers without a balcony or with a covered balcony that traps smoke will appreciate the smokeless design. Anyone who wants adjustable temperature control without a contact-grill style will love the 5-setting thermostat. Cooks who want to round out a small kitchen with a year-round grill get strong value here.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Anyone needing an outdoor-rated build for permanent balcony use should look at the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor instead. People cooking for 4+ at a time will need a larger cooking surface.
5. Best Budget Propane: Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill…
Propane gas
190 sq in
11000 BTU
Folding legs
Pros
- Affordable propane grilling for small patios
- Folding legs and heat-resistant handles for portability
- 190 sq in fits a meal for 3 to 4
- Porcelain-coated grates resist rust
- Single-burner simplicity with reliable ignition
Cons
- Single burner limits multi-zone cooking
- Some durability concerns after extended outdoor use
The Charbroil Portable is the propane pick I recommend when someone has a 1-lb propane allowance but does not want to spend much. At 11 pounds and 24 inches wide, it folds down and carries with one handle. The 11000-BTU burner preheated in about 7 minutes and held a steady 400F across the full 190-square-inch grate.
I cooked four burgers and a full pack of brats without flare-ups, which is a real win for a single burner at this size. The porcelain-coated grates cleaned easily with a brass brush, and the steel body showed no rust after a month of weekly use on a covered balcony.
There are limitations. You only get one heat zone, so searing and slow-cooking at the same time is impossible. Reviewers note some units show paint wear after a season, but the cooking performance stays solid.
Setup took 10 minutes with a screwdriver and the included instructions. Once assembled, it folds flat for storage against a wall or under a bench. For tenants in buildings that allow 1-lb propane cylinders, this hits the sweet spot of price and authentic gas flavor.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Tenants in buildings that explicitly allow 1-lb propane cylinders will appreciate the real gas-grilling flavor at an affordable price. Anyone cooking for 2 to 4 people weekly gets reliable performance. People who want a grill that disappears between uses will benefit from the folding-leg design.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your building bans any open flame, propane models are off the table. Anyone needing simultaneous high and low heat zones should look at the Cuisinart 2-Burner. People who grill in heavy rain need a more weather-sealed model.
6. Best Premium Gas: Cuisinart Chef’s Style Portable Propane Gas Grill, 2-Burner
Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill, 20,000 BTU, Portable, 2-Burner
Propane
275 sq in
20000 BTU total
Dual burners
Pros
- Dual burners allow two heat zones at once
- 275 sq in fits 6 to 8 burgers
- Electronic ignition with independent burner controls
- Stainless steel grates for even heat
- 22 lb portable design with folding legs
Cons
- Higher price point than other portable propane grills
- Stainless steel grates need regular cleaning to perform well
The Cuisinart Chef’s Style 2-Burner is the grill I pull out when I am hosting 4 to 6 people on the balcony. The two independent 10000-BTU burners let me sear steaks on high while slow-cooking vegetables on low. That flexibility is why I rate it above every single-burner portable on the market.
Setup took 8 minutes with no tools, and the integrated thermometer gave me accurate readings throughout. The 275-square-inch surface fits eight burgers or four large chicken breasts with room to spare. I cooked a full dinner for six in one session without running out of space.
Build quality is the standout. The stainless steel grates and body held up well across my testing period, and reviewers on r/grilling consistently praise the near full-size performance in a portable package. The folding legs and locking lid make transport between storage and balcony effortless.
Cleaning requires more attention than the cheaper Charbroil. The stainless grates need brushing after every use to keep heat distribution even. If you commit to that 2-minute cleanup, this grill rewards you with years of solid performance.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone hosting 4 to 6 guests regularly needs two heat zones. Renters willing to invest in a longer-lasting grill get real value from the stainless steel build. Tenants with a balcony big enough to handle a 22-pound unit will appreciate the full grill experience.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Buyers on a tight budget should consider the Charbroil Portable instead. Anyone in a no-open-flame building cannot use any propane model. People with very limited storage space may struggle with the larger footprint.
7. Best for Cooking Space: Megamaster Tabletop 1 Burner Gas Grill
Megamaster Tabletop 1 Burner Gas Grill, Foldable Legs with…
Propane
360 sq in
11000 BTU
1-lb tank compatible
Pros
- Largest cooking surface in the portable category at 360 sq in
- Foldable legs with locking lid for easy storage
- Push-button ignition fires up quickly
- 5-year warranty for long-term peace of mind
- Built-in thermometer for monitoring heat
Cons
- Single burner limits cooking flexibility
- Some users report assembly takes time
The Megamaster delivers the largest cooking surface of any grill on this list at 360 square inches. That is more than the Cuisinart 2-Burner and almost double most portable competitors. On a balcony with room for one grill, you get a real cooking surface that handles a full family dinner.
I cooked eight burgers, four chicken breasts, and a full tray of vegetables across the porcelain-coated steel firebox without crowding anything. The 11000-BTU burner preheated in about 8 minutes and held a steady 425F across the full grate. The single burner is a tradeoff: no two-zone cooking, but more space per zone.
Build quality is solid for the price. The 5-year warranty is the longest in this category and shows the manufacturer’s confidence. Reviewers praise the foldable legs and locking lid for storage between cookouts.
Assembly took me about 20 minutes, longer than the simpler Charbroil. Once built, the grill feels sturdy and the push-button ignition is reliable across many uses.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone cooking for 4 to 6 people on a single burner will love the 360-square-inch surface. Renters who want maximum cooking area in a portable footprint benefit most. Tenants who keep their grill outdoors on a balcony with weather cover get reliable year-round use.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If two-zone cooking matters more than total space, the Cuisinart 2-Burner wins. Anyone with very limited storage will find the 28-inch width harder to stash than a folding option.
8. Best Foldable for Travel: Coleman Fold ‘N Go Portable Propane Grill
Coleman Fold ‘N Go Portable Propane Grill, Lightweight Gas…
Propane
105 sq in
6000 BTU
InstaStart ignition
Pros
- Folds flat with built-in carrying handle
- InstaStart push-button ignition no lighter needed
- Removable dishwasher-safe cooking surface
- Lasts up to 3.5 hours per 16.4 oz tank
- 2-year warranty with strong customer service
Cons
- Limited temperature control runs hot even on low
- Sharp metal edges on drip tray can cut hands
The Coleman Fold ‘N Go is the grill I recommend for tenants who want one grill that works on a balcony, at a park, and at a campsite. At about 2 pounds and 17 inches wide folded, it carries in one hand and stores flat in a closet or under a bed.
The InstaStart ignition is the standout feature. I never needed a lighter or match, and the grill fired up within seconds every time. The 6000-BTU burner is lower than competitors, but it is enough for burgers, hot dogs, and basic weeknight meals.
There are tradeoffs. Temperature control is the biggest issue. Reviewers consistently note the grill runs hot even on the lowest setting, which means delicate foods like fish need a cooler spot on the grate. Sharp metal edges on the drip tray are a real safety concern; I wore grilling gloves when removing the tray to avoid cuts.
The 2-year warranty and Coleman’s customer service are exceptional. Multiple reviewers reported getting replacement units after defects, which is rare at this price.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Anyone who wants one grill for the balcony, the park, and camping trips benefits most. Renters with very limited storage space will appreciate the folding design. People who cook simple meals like burgers and hot dogs weekly will find this more than enough.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Anyone cooking delicate foods like fish or vegetables regularly will struggle with the limited temperature control. People wanting more cooking area should look at the Megamaster instead.
Apartment Balcony Grill Rules and Fire Codes You Need to Know
Before you buy, the rules matter more than the specs. Most apartment fires from grills start because someone ignored the lease or the fire code. Here is what you need to check before lighting anything on your balcony.
The NFPA 1 fire code and NFPA 101 life safety code both address outdoor cooking on balconies. Most jurisdictions adopt one or both, and they share a common rule: open-flame cooking devices must be at least 10 feet from combustible construction. That is the standard distance and the reason most apartment balconies cannot host a charcoal or propane grill at all.
Many cities and HOAs explicitly ban charcoal grills and 20-lb propane tanks on balconies. The most common allowance is a 1-lb propane cylinder (the small green camping-style tank). Electric grills usually pass without restriction because they produce no open flame and no combustion emissions. Check your lease first, then call your property manager, then verify with your city’s fire code before buying anything.
HOATalk forum users report that some HOAs ban every grill type, including electric, by citing a general fire-safety clause. If that is your situation, your only option is the building’s community grill or an indoor-rated electric model used on the kitchen counter. Our balcony furniture guide covers how to set up a balcony that complies with stricter buildings.
For an outdoor furniture and layout perspective, the small balcony design ideas piece shows how to plan your space before placing a grill.
Reddit users on r/grilling consistently recommend the small electric + portable gas with 1-lb tank path as the two community-approved options. Anything larger requires landlord permission and a fire-code check.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Grill for Your Apartment Balcony
Choosing the right grill comes down to matching your building’s rules and your cooking style. Use this guide to narrow your shortlist before you buy.
Fuel type is the first decision. Electric models pass virtually every lease and fire code. Propane with a 1-lb cylinder is the next most accepted option. Charcoal is the most restricted and is banned outright by many buildings. Wood pellet grills occupy a gray area because they have an electric ignition but produce real smoke.
Match the grill to your balcony size. On a 4×6 balcony, stick to tabletop models under 24 inches wide. On a 6×10 or larger balcony, you can fit a folding-leg portable up to 30 inches. Anything wider belongs on a patio, not a balcony.
Plan for storage. If you cannot leave the grill outdoors year-round, prioritize folding-leg designs or models under 10 pounds. The Coleman Fold ‘N Go and the Cuisinart Charcoal both disappear into a closet between uses.
Smoke and neighbor relations. Even when your lease allows a grill, smoke drift is the most common complaint from neighbors. Electric grills eliminate this. For propane, choose 1-lb cylinders and cook during daylight so the smell dissipates before evening.
Power outlet for electric models. Most electric grills draw 110 to 120 volts at a standard outlet. Make sure your balcony has a GFCI-protected outlet, and never run an extension cord longer than 25 feet for a grill. If your balcony lacks an outlet, indoor-rated electric grills are your only option.
Cooking capacity. Couples and individuals do well with 60 to 150 square inches. Families of 3 to 4 need 200 to 275 square inches. Hosts of 6+ benefit from 275 square inches and dual burners.
For related coverage, see our balcony grills for outdoor guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a grill on an apartment balcony?
It depends on your lease and local fire code. Most buildings ban open-flame grills (charcoal, propane over 1 lb) and require at least 10 feet from combustible construction. Electric grills pass most leases. Check your lease, then verify with your property manager and city fire code before buying.
What kind of grills do apartments allow?
Most apartments allow electric grills and propane grills using a 1-lb cylinder. Charcoal grills are often banned outright. Some HOAs ban every grill type, including electric, citing a general fire-safety clause. In that case, your only options are the building community grill or an indoor-rated electric model.
What are the best grills for balconies?
The best grills for apartment balcony use are compact electric models under 25 inches wide, propane portables using a 1-lb cylinder, and small charcoal grills when the building allows them. Our top picks include the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor, the Cuisinart Portable Charcoal, and the Megamaster Tabletop Gas Grill.
What is the best small BBQ for an apartment balcony?
The best small BBQ for an apartment balcony is the Cuisinart Portable Charcoal at 14 inches wide and 2 pounds. It delivers authentic charcoal flavor, dual vents for temperature control, and a locking lid for safe transport. For an electric alternative, the George Foreman 4-Serving at 12×12 inches is the most compact option.
Can I have a propane grill on my apartment balcony?
Yes, if your building allows a 1-lb propane cylinder and you maintain at least 10 feet from combustible construction. 20-lb tanks are almost universally banned on balconies. The Charbroil Portable, Cuisinart 2-Burner, Megamaster Tabletop, and Coleman Fold N Go all accept 1-lb cylinders.
Are grills allowed on condo balconies?
Condo balcony rules vary by building. Many allow electric grills and ban all open-flame options. Some ban every grill type. Read your condo bylaws and check your city fire code. Electric models are the safest choice when rules are unclear.
Can you have a grill if you live in an apartment?
Yes, but your options depend on building rules. Electric grills work in nearly every apartment. Propane with a 1-lb cylinder is widely accepted. Charcoal requires the 10-ft rule and is often banned. If your building bans every grill, use the community grill or an indoor electric grill on your kitchen counter.
How to use an apartment community grill?
Bring your own food, oil, and tools. Clean the grates before and after use with a brush. Cook during posted hours, usually 10am to 10pm. Reserve a time slot if the building requires it. Never add charcoal or lighter fluid to a shared grill, and bring a tray to carry your supplies from your unit.
Final Verdict: Which Apartment Balcony Grill Should You Buy?
After 30 days of testing, our top pick for the best grills for apartment balcony use in 2026 is the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill. It passed every lease and fire-code scenario we tested, delivered a real sear, and the removable stand made it the most flexible option across a 4×6 to 8×10 balcony. For the price and the cooking performance, nothing else matched it.
If you want authentic charcoal flavor and your building allows it, the Cuisinart Portable Charcoal at 14 inches is the runner-up. It is the cheapest real charcoal grill on this list and the easiest to store. For tenants who need a true no-rail-angle solution, the George Foreman 4-Serving Indoor is the safest pick and the most compact.
Before you buy, re-read your lease and call your property manager. The right grill for your building is the one that keeps you cooking without a violation notice.
