Breville’s Smart Grill is a countertop appliance that solves a specific geometry problem. Most contact grills have a fixed hinge, limiting what you can cook. This one has an adjustable hinge that opens completely flat. That single engineering choice transforms it from a panini press into a legitimate indoor griddle.

Open, it provides 260 square inches of brushed stainless steel cooking surface powered by 1800 watts. You can sear two steaks or a full pack of vegetables. The heat-up is fast and even. Closing the hinge, the floating top plate adjusts to perfectly compress a thick ciabatta without crushing a delicate croissant. The integrated drip trap and removable plates make cleanup a straightforward, if not exactly delightful, task.

It’s a substantial unit that demands real counter space. For those who have it, the grill delivers consistent, restaurant-quality sear marks and versatile daily utility that justifies its footprint.