Single Commercial-Grade Sandwich Grill Press ESG-1
#91
Winco

Winco Single Commercial-Grade Sandwich Grill Press ESG-1

Rating

Model: ESG-1
$361(incl. tax)Amazon price as of 2025-08-25
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Product Overview

The Winco ESG-1 Single Commercial-Grade Sandwich Grill Press is designed for making grilled sandwiches, flat breads, and more. It features smooth cast iron grill plates, adjustable height for different food thicknesses, and adjustable temperature control up to 600°F. A removable crumb and grease tray allows for easy cleaning. It is designed for daily use in commercial foodservice environments. However, customer reviews indicate potential issues with durability and longevity.

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Product Specifications

Power Consumption
1800W
Temperature Range
-°C
Grill Surface Size
-cm²
Plate Material
Cast Iron
Detachable Plate
-
Adjustable Height
Yes
Timer Function
-
Grease Tray
Yes
Dimensions
-mm
Weight
-kg

Size & Weight

Weight
46.89 Pounds
Hight
12.75 inches
Width
18.38 inches
Depth
22"D

Features

Temperature Adjustment Function

The temperature adjustment function allows for precise control over the cooking process, enabling users to adjust the heat to suit different types of food. This ensures optimal results when searing steaks at high heat or gently grilling vegetables at lower temperatures. The infinitely variable temperature knob allows for adjustments up to 600°F.

Smoke Reduction Function

This grill press does not have a dedicated smoke reduction function. Users should ensure adequate ventilation when using the grill to prevent smoke buildup. The absence of this feature may make it less suitable for indoor use in poorly ventilated areas, potentially leading to discomfort and lingering odors.

Timer Function

This grill press does not include a timer function. Users must manually monitor the cooking time to prevent overcooking or burning. The absence of a timer may require more attention during the cooking process, especially when multitasking or preparing multiple dishes simultaneously.

Removable Plate Function

The grill plates on this press are not removable, making cleaning more difficult. Users must clean the plates while they are still attached to the unit, which can be cumbersome. The non-removable design may also limit the ability to thoroughly clean the plates, potentially leading to grease buildup over time.

Non-Stick Coating Function

The cast iron grill plates do not have a non-stick coating, which can cause food to stick and make cleaning more challenging. Users may need to use more oil or grease to prevent sticking, which can increase the fat content of the food. The absence of a non-stick coating requires more effort during both cooking and cleaning.

Oil Drainage Function

The removable crumb and grease tray collects excess oil and grease, reducing fat content in food and minimizing splattering. This promotes healthier eating and simplifies cleaning. The tray is easily removable for emptying and cleaning, contributing to a more convenient cooking experience.

SHOPSTAFF Rating Score

#91
Ranked #91 out of 99 products in Category
2.7
Overall Rating

The Winco ESG-1 is a commercial-grade grill press suitable for restaurants and cafes. However, its durability is questionable based on customer reviews. It lacks advanced features found in higher-end models and is positioned as a basic, functional option. Predicted usage period may be limited.

Grilling Area Size
3.0
The grill surface is suitable for making one or two sandwiches at a time. It is adequate for small businesses but may not be sufficient for high-volume cooking. The flat surface is ideal for evenly pressing sandwiches and flatbreads.
Temperature Control and Consistency
3.5
The adjustable temperature knob allows for precise temperature adjustments up to 600°F. However, some users have reported inconsistent heating, which can lead to unevenly cooked food. The ready light indicates when the grill is at the desired temperature.
Grill Plate Material and Design
3.5
The smooth cast iron grill plates are durable and retain heat well. However, they are not non-stick, which can cause food to stick and make cleaning more difficult. The flat surface is ideal for pressing sandwiches and flatbreads evenly.
Smoke Control and Ventilation
2.0
This grill press does not have any specific smoke control features. It is important to use it in a well-ventilated area to prevent smoke buildup. The lack of smoke control makes it less suitable for indoor use in poorly ventilated spaces.
Versatility and Additional Features
2.0
This grill press is primarily designed for making sandwiches and flatbreads. It lacks additional features such as air frying or dehydrating. The adjustable height allows for grilling different thicknesses of food, but its versatility is limited compared to multi-functional grills.
Ease of Cleaning
3.0
The removable crumb and grease tray simplifies cleaning. However, the cast iron grill plates are not removable and can be difficult to clean, especially if food sticks to them. A steel bristle brush is included for cleaning, but thorough cleaning is still required.
Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
1.8
Winco is a known supplier of foodservice equipment, but customer reviews indicate potential reliability issues with this specific model. The limited warranty provides some protection, but the high percentage of negative reviews raises concerns about long-term durability.
Cost Performance
3.0
At $361, this grill press is priced competitively for a commercial-grade unit. However, the reported durability issues and lack of advanced features may make it a less cost-effective option in the long run. Consider the potential for repairs or replacements when evaluating its value.

Brand & Manufacturer Details

Winco
Winco is a supplier of kitchenware and equipment, offering a wide range of products for the foodservice industry.

Key Highlights

  • Adjustable temperature control
  • Removable crumb and grease tray

Considerations

  • Potential durability issues
  • Uneven heating may occur
  • Ensure proper cleaning to prevent grease buildup

Recommended For

  • Small restaurants or cafes
  • Businesses needing a basic sandwich press
  • Users who prioritize price over advanced features

Not Recommended For

  • High-volume establishments
  • Users seeking advanced features
  • Those requiring high reliability and durability

Suitable For

  • Making grilled sandwiches in a cafe
  • Preparing quesadillas in a restaurant
  • Grilling flat breads in a commercial kitchen

Not Suitable For

  • High-volume cooking environments
  • Situations requiring consistent and even heating
  • Use in demanding commercial settings

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q.Is this grill suitable for commercial use?
A.Yes, according to the product overview, this sandwich grill is designed for daily use in commercial foodservice environments such as hotels, restaurants, and cafeterias.
Q.Can I adjust the temperature of the grill?
A.Yes, the product overview states that the grill has an infinitely variable temperature knob that allows for precise temperature adjustment up to 600°F.
Q.Is the grill easy to clean?
A.Yes, the product overview mentions that the grill includes a removable crumb and grease tray for mess-free cooking and comes with a steel bristle brush for easy cleaning.
Q.What is the cooking surface made of?
A.The cooking surface is made of smooth cast iron grill plates, according to the product overview.
Q.What are the dimensions of the grill?
A.The product dimensions are 22"D x 18.38"W x 12.75"H, as listed in the specifications.
Q.What is the warranty on this product?
A.The warranty type is limited, according to the product specifications.
Q.What voltage does this grill use?
A.The grill uses 120 Volts, according to the specifications.
Q.Are there any staff confirmations regarding the product's durability?
A.Some staff confirmations indicate potential issues with the product's durability, with some reporting that it stopped working after a few months or had wires burning out. It may be worth considering these points.
Q.Is the surface non-stick?
A.One staff confirmation mentioned that the surface is not non-stick as advertised and that food sticks to it, making it difficult to clean.
Q.Does this grill require a special electrical setup?
A.One staff member using the double unit mentioned needing two separate 110V circuits for operation.

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Dimensions- mmWeight- kg
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Detachable PlateYesAdjustable Height-
Timer FunctionYesGrease TrayYes
Dimensions- mmWeight- kg
Temperature Adjustment FunctionSmoke Reduction FunctionTimer FunctionRemovable Plate FunctionNon-Stick Coating FunctionOil Drainage Function
4.5Overall Rating
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4.8Ease of Cleaning
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Timer Function -Grease Tray -
Dimensions - mmWeight - kg
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4.3Overall Rating
4.5Grilling Area Size
4.0Temperature Control and Consistency
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4.3Smoke Control and Ventilation
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Detachable PlateYesAdjustable Height-
Timer Function-Grease TrayYes
Dimensions- mmWeight- kg
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4.3Overall Rating
4.5Grilling Area Size
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4.3Manufacturer Reliability and Warranty
4.1Cost Performance