Wait until you see the size of this BBQ grill, and then you’ll laugh…

… until you cook with it, and then you realize it’s pure genius!

It’s made in the USA, by UCO, who have been making innovative outdoor gear since 1971.

It comes in its own sturdy carry-bag, and immediately you know this is a quality product.

Made to last, made to fit, and made with pride.

I look for the details right away.

The stainless steel is lightweight but solid – beautifully made. I appreciate the precision in both design and construction.

The grill is packed flat, and so the hinge mechanism is a natural weak spot – but not with this little beauty!

The folding legs also could become loose and wobbly over time… but not to worry, the UCO is super solid!

I move onto the grill – sterling good work, the material is top-notch, and the welds are excellent.

Very impressed with this fine piece of kit.

But, how does it cook?

First of all, it is petite. Let’s get back to the size, and to the portability.

Weight is 2 pounds and grilling area is 9″ x 6.75″ – that’s 23cm by 18cm.

But I learned that it is a superbly competent outdoor grill, and my first mistake was to add too much coal. Not needed – use less than half in the photo below. My grill was burning hot for a full half-hour after finishing cooking thick lamb chops. This is a pro BBQ grill – diminutive, but pro.

The key to the great burn is the ventilation holes, punched into each side, which allow for good air flow.

Loaded, it looks like this. And you can imagine the fresh oxygen being sucked in from the sides as needed.

The grill size actually allowed for three big, juicy chops, without crowding – so that means 3 steaks, 3 burgers, etc. And that’s not bad: how many burgers do you eat solo at each sitting?

And did it cook well?

Exceptional.

With a reminder that all this with a grill that is ultra-portable, the size of a medium housecat, without a tail.

And which packs completely flat, basically the size of an iPad.

For the solo traveler, with possibility for light-eater companion, the UCO mini Flatpack Grill & Fire Pit is quality equipment, which will grill better than many larger portable grills thanks to the clever design and attention to detail – this high quality equipment will provide many years of excellent grilling, and due to its extreme portability I expect it will get much use.