Li'l triple-walled charcoal grill sets out to sear like the big boys

Original story by: New Atlas Last updated: Oct 22, 2025

Context: Toby Roberts, a Portland restaurateur, has developed a compact, home-use version of his high-performance charcoal grill and specialized charcoal. This new device, named the Thaan Grill, is currently being funded through a Kickstarter campaign and aims to bring professional-level grilling to outdoor, portable settings.
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Detailed Summary:
- Toby Roberts, known for inventing Thai-style charcoal and a grill used in Michelin-starred restaurants, has created a miniature version for home use.
- The Thaan Grill is a tabletop device featuring a durable, insulated stainless steel body that reaches high temperatures quickly.
- Its design includes a triple-walled, vermiculite-insulated body, a stainless steel grate, a removable charcoal tray, and an adjustable bottom-up airflow system.
- This system allows the grill to reach a grate-surface temperature of 1,000 ºF (540 ºC) in approximately 10 minutes, promising precise heating and a chef-level sear.
- The included charcoal briquets are made from orchard trimmings, designed to burn hot for 4-6 hours with a mild aroma and no smoke.
- While the Thaan Grill is compatible with other charcoals, it is not intended for indoor use.
- A key feature is its portability, suitable for use on picnic tables, balconies, and tailgates without damaging surfaces due to its insulation.
- Backers on Kickstarter can secure a Thaan Grill and a pack of charcoal for a pledge of US$429, with a planned retail price of $569.