The George Foreman Lean Mean Fat Reducing Grilling machine has a new plus. The G+Broil GRB72P grill has a revolutionary design with a locking hinge that lets the upper cooking plate rest above the lower cooking plate for broiling foods.

This unit is rather compact, with an 11x12-inch base that stands just 5 inches tall. The cooking surface is 7x10.5 inches (72 square inches) and tilts slightly down in the front so grease and drippings drain off. A long drip tray comes with the unit and should be positioned in front of the lower grid whenever you are cooking juicy or fatty foods. We liked the oversize tray, which nests under the front of the unit so it's not in the way and not as likely to get bumped out of position.

The G+Broil heated quickly -- in just over 5 minutes. There is no "on" button. Plugging the unit in an electrical outlet activates the heating mechanism. A handy power light signals that the unit is heating and goes out when the grill is properly preheated. We were impressed with the quick, even cooking this unit delivered. The top grill plate closes on top of the bottom plate so foods are sandwiched between twin layers of heat.

One feature we particularly liked was the option to cook with the top grill plate raised up on its two-position hinge. The raised grill plate lets you melt cheese on hamburgers, cook a batch of mini pizzas or broil stuffed mushrooms -- tasks that were previously unsuitable for contact grilling. In the locked position, the top grid hovers about an inch and a half above the bottom grid so delicate foods, such as cheese, can be melted without sticking to the grid.

The bottom grid has sensible raised tooth-like projections that keep foods from sliding off, even while allowing liquids to do so. Both grids have an easy-clean nonstick finish that is triple reinforced against scratches. The plates are encased in a sturdy Phenolic plastic housing with a full-length stay-cool handle.

The G+Broil GRB72P may be smaller than its counterparts in the Foreman line; however, its fast, even heating and low price tag make it desirable to the budget-minded consumer. Plus, the unique locking hinge gives it an added appeal.


Pros: Compact styling, locking hinge raises top grid 1-1/2 inches above bottom grid for broiling
Cons: Limited capacity

Warranty
1 year