Bodum 11529-16 Grill Review
Our verdict
A lightweight, compact charcoal grill built for small spaces and casual cooks who want something easy to move around. The chrome finish and modest footprint make it a decent pick for balconies or tailgates, not large family cookouts.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Solo cooks, apartment dwellers with outdoor space, or anyone needing a portable charcoal option that stores easily.
Skip if
You cook for more than two people regularly, or you want a grill that holds heat through long cooks.
- Fuel Charcoal
- Burners 1
- Material Chrome
- Install Freestanding
- Color Chrome
- Dimensions 15 X 18 X 15 In
- Priced 78% below the category median ($381.99 across 260 tracked models)
- Burners of 1 - fewer than 79% of the 261 models we track
- Weight of 9.9 lb - lighter than 93% of the 261 models we track
Pros
- Very lightweight at 9.9 lb, easy to carry and store
- Compact 15 x 18 x 15 in footprint fits small patios and balconies
- Charcoal fuel gives real smoky flavor
- Affordable at $85
- Freestanding design needs no mounting or built-in installation
Cons
- Chrome material is less durable than cast iron or stainless steel
- No listed cooking area spec makes capacity hard to judge
- Single-zone charcoal control limits precision for longer cooks
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.3/5
4.3 average across 101 owner ratings
-
Popularity3.1/5
101 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other grills, grill parts and burners, smokers and smoking gear, grill tools, outdoor griddles, outdoor kitchen appliances and grill covers we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['The Bodum 11529-16 is a freestanding charcoal grill built around simplicity. At 9.9 pounds and 15 by 18 by 15 inches, it is among the lightest grills in this category. Chrome construction gives it a clean look, though chrome is thinner than cast iron or stainless and will need care to resist corrosion over time.', 'Charcoal is the only fuel option here, so you get real fire flavor without any plumbing or propane. With a single burner zone, you manage heat by adjusting your charcoal pile rather than turning knobs. That works fine for searing burgers or hot dogs, but temperature control over longer cooks takes more attention.', 'At $85, it sits at the low end of the grill price range. Buyers rate it 4.3 out of 5 across 101 reviews, suggesting solid satisfaction for its intended use. It is not a workhorse grill, but it does its job for the cook who wants charcoal flavor without committing to a full-size setup.']
Specifications
| Fuel | Charcoal |
|---|---|
| Burners | 1 |
| Material | Chrome |
| Install | Freestanding |
| Color | Chrome |
| Dimensions | 15 X 18 X 15 In |
| Weight | 9.9 lb |
Performance notes
Fuel type is charcoal, which produces direct radiant heat. The single burner zone means heat management comes from coal placement rather than zone control. Chrome construction is light but less resistant to high-heat oxidation than cast iron or stainless. Dimensions of 15 x 18 x 15 inches place this firmly in the compact category. No BTU or cooking area spec is listed by the manufacturer.
What buyers say
With 101 reviews and a 4.3 rating, buyers are generally pleased with this grill for what it is. Common positive notes center on portability and easy setup. The review count is solid for a niche compact grill, though not large enough to draw sweeping conclusions about long-term durability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Bodum 11529-16 good for camping or tailgating?
Its 9.9-pound weight and compact 15 x 18 x 15 inch size make it practical to transport in a vehicle. Charcoal fuel is easy to source on the road. It handles small quantities of food well, though you will need to bring your own charcoal and a way to dispose of ash safely after cooking.
How do I control the temperature on a charcoal grill with one zone?
With a single charcoal zone, you adjust heat by spreading coals for lower, even heat or banking them to one side for a hot zone next to a cooler zone. Opening and closing any vents the grill has will also raise or lower airflow and therefore flame. It takes a little practice but is a core charcoal grilling skill.
Will the chrome finish hold up outdoors?
Chrome can develop surface rust if left wet or exposed to prolonged humidity. Wiping it dry after use and storing it covered when not in use will extend its life. It is not as inherently weather-resistant as stainless steel, so some extra care goes a long way.