Best Raclette Grills UK 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Social Dining
Looking for the best raclette grill in the UK? We've tested 8 top models to help you find the perfect grill for your next dinner party. Read our expert guide.
There is no better way to turn a standard dinner into an event than with a raclette grill. Originating from the Swiss Alps, this communal style of cooking has become a firm favourite in UK households, transforming the dining table into a hub of activity. Whether you are hosting a festive gathering, a relaxed weekend meal with family, or an intimate date night, a raclette grill allows everyone to be their own chef, melting cheese and grilling meats, vegetables, and seafood simultaneously. In this guide, we have curated the top 8 raclette grills available in the UK market, evaluating them on build quality, heating performance, and ease of cleaning. From stylish bamboo-encased models that serve as a centrepiece to compact, space-saving units for smaller kitchens, our selection covers every need and budget. We understand that choosing the right appliance can be overwhelming, so we have stripped away the marketing jargon to focus on what truly matters: how well it melts, how easy it is to store, and how much fun it brings to your table. Join us as we explore the best options to elevate your next dinner party.
At a glance
| Product | Score | Best for | Key spec | Price tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Princess Raclette Pure 8-UKPrincess | 8.9 | Social dining and dinner party hosting | Bamboo housing, reversible grill plate | Premium |
| Cooks Professional Eight PersonCooks Professional | 8.0 | Budget-conscious hosts | 1200W heating element | Budget |
| Hengbo 8 Person Raclette GrillHengbo | 8.4 | Family gatherings | 1300W, stepless temp control | Mid-range |
| Domo DO9187G Four PersonDomo | 8.3 | Couples and small groups | 600W, stone and grill plates | Mid-range |
| Salter EK4513 Raclette & FondueSalter | 8.1 | Versatile entertaining | 1400W, integrated fondue pot | Mid-range |
| Giles & Posner Stone RacletteGiles & Posner | 8.3 | Indoor entertaining | Granite stone surface | Mid-range |
| Gourmia Raclette SombreroGourmia | 7.9 | Small households | 600W, compact design | Budget |
| Domo DO9188G Six PersonDomo | 8.0 | Casual social dining | Six-person capacity | Budget |
Best Overall
Princess Raclette Pure 8-UKBest Premium
Salter EK4513 Raclette Grill & Fondue
Buying advice
When shopping for a raclette grill in the UK, the first thing to consider is your typical group size. While eight-person models are the standard, they can be bulky. If you usually host smaller groups, a four or six-person unit might be more practical and easier to store. Next, look at the cooking surface material. Non-stick metal plates are the most common and easiest to clean, while granite stone plates offer superior heat retention and a rustic cooking style, though they take longer to heat up and require more careful handling to prevent cracking.
Power output is another critical factor. Look for models with at least 1000W if you are choosing an eight-person grill; anything less may struggle to keep up with the demand of multiple people cooking simultaneously. Adjustable temperature control is a highly recommended feature, as it allows you to prevent the cheese from burning while keeping the grill surface hot enough for meats.
Finally, consider the 'extras'. Many modern grills come with reversible plates (flat for crepes or eggs, ribbed for searing) or even integrated fondue pots. These features add significant value if you enjoy variety in your dining. Always check the quality of the included pans—look for deep, non-stick pans with heat-resistant handles. Remember that the non-stick coating is the most delicate part of the appliance; always use the provided wooden or heat-resistant plastic spatulas rather than metal utensils to ensure your grill lasts for years. By balancing these factors against your available storage space and budget, you will find the perfect addition to your kitchen.
How to choose
The factors that actually matter — and what a good choice looks like.
Capacity
Look for: Choose a unit that matches your typical guest count (2, 4, 6, or 8).
Why it matters: An 8-person grill is overkill for a couple, while a 4-person grill will leave guests waiting for their turn in larger groups.
Market tip: Most UK retailers stock 8-person models as standard, but 4-person units are often better for small flats.
Surface Material
Look for: Non-stick metal for convenience or granite stone for heat retention.
Why it matters: Stone provides a better sear but requires a longer pre-heat time and careful cleaning.
Market tip: Reversible plates are the best of both worlds, offering a flat side for eggs and a ribbed side for meats.
Power Output
Look for: Aim for 1000W-1400W for 8-person models.
Why it matters: Lower wattage units may result in slow cheese melting, which kills the social momentum of the meal.
Market tip: Check the wattage on the box; anything under 800W for a large unit is usually too slow for a party.
Temperature Control
Look for: An adjustable thermostat dial.
Why it matters: Allows you to manage the heat so the cheese doesn't burn while you are still grilling your vegetables.
Market tip: Avoid fixed-temperature models if you plan on cooking a variety of ingredients like seafood and steak.
Ease of Cleaning
Look for: Removable, dishwasher-safe plates and high-quality non-stick coating.
Why it matters: Raclette is messy; if the grill is hard to clean, you will be less likely to use it.
Market tip: Look for 'PFAS-free' non-stick coatings if you are concerned about chemical safety.
Storage Footprint
Look for: Compact designs or models with detachable parts.
Why it matters: These grills are often used seasonally; you need to ensure it fits in your kitchen cupboard.
Market tip: Bamboo-based models look great but are harder to clean and store than all-metal units.
Top tips — market intelligence
AI-sourced UK market insights: trends, pricing, seasonality and running costs.
Buy during the 'festive window' (November to January).
Why now: Raclette is a winter staple in the UK; retailers heavily discount these units during the lead-up to Christmas and the January sales.
Evidence: Major UK retailers typically drop prices by 15-25% during Black Friday and Boxing Day sales.
Prioritise 1200W+ for 8-person units.
Why now: Underpowered grills are the number one cause of buyer regret in this category.
Evidence: Models like the Salter EK4513 (1400W) consistently outperform 600W-800W models in melting speed.
Avoid metal utensils at all costs.
Why now: Metal scratches the non-stick coating, which is the most common reason for needing a replacement.
Evidence: Most manufacturers explicitly void warranties if non-stick damage is caused by metal tools.
Check the 'pan depth' before buying.
Why now: Deeper pans allow you to melt more cheese and add toppings like mushrooms or ham without spilling.
Evidence: Premium models like the Princess Pure 8 feature deeper pans compared to budget alternatives.
Consider the energy cost vs. oven usage.
Why now: Using a 1200W raclette grill for 2 hours is significantly cheaper than running a large electric oven for the same duration.
Evidence: A 1200W appliance uses roughly 1.2kWh per hour, which is often lower than the 2-3kWh required for a standard fan oven.
The reviews
Princess Raclette Pure 8-UK
The Princess Raclette Pure 8 is the gold standard for those who value aesthetics as much as performance. Its bamboo housing provides a sophisticated, natural look that stands out from the typical industrial plastic designs. Beyond its looks, the reversible grill plate is highly practical, offering both flat and ribbed surfaces for different cooking needs. While the bamboo base requires a bit of extra care during cleaning to prevent water damage, the non-stick coating on the pans is top-tier, making cleanup a breeze. It is a premium investment, but for those who host dinner parties regularly, the build quality and social appeal make it worth every penny.
Cooks Professional Eight Person Raclette Grill
If you are looking for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly entry into the world of raclette, this model from Cooks Professional is a solid choice. It packs a respectable 1200W heating element, which ensures the cheese melts quickly and the grill surface stays hot enough for meats. While the build quality feels a bit lightweight compared to more expensive units, it gets the job done effectively. The non-stick coating is decent, though you should stick to the included wooden spatulas to avoid scratching it. It is perfect for casual gatherings where you want the fun of a raclette without a high price tag.
Hengbo 8 Person Raclette Grill
The Hengbo 8 Person Raclette Grill is a workhorse for family gatherings. With a powerful 1300W element and a stepless temperature dial, it offers the precision needed to manage different cooking speeds for various ingredients. The large surface area is excellent for groups, though it does take up a fair amount of table space. It is functional rather than flashy, but the consistent heat distribution makes it a reliable performer. If you prioritise performance and ease of use over high-end design, this is a fantastic option that will serve you well for many dinner parties to come.
Domo DO9187G Four Person Raclette Grill
For couples or small households, the Domo DO9187G is a brilliant, compact solution. The standout feature here is the dual-plate design, allowing you to switch between a traditional non-stick grill and a stone plate for a different cooking experience. While the 600W power output is lower than larger models, it is perfectly adequate for a four-person setup. It is easy to store and fits comfortably on smaller dining tables. While it might be harder to find in some high-street shops, it is a versatile and well-made appliance that brings a touch of class to intimate dining.
Salter EK4513 Raclette Grill & Fondue
The Salter EK4513 is the ultimate party piece, combining a raclette grill with a central fondue pot. This 2-in-1 functionality is a massive hit for social dining, allowing guests to switch between melted cheese in the pans and a warm fondue dip. With 1400W of power, it heats up rapidly and maintains a good temperature. The stone grill plate is a nice touch for searing meats, though it does require careful handling. It is a large unit, so ensure you have the table space, but for those who love to entertain, the versatility of this Salter model is hard to beat.
Giles & Posner EK1872G Electric Stone Raclette Grill
The Giles & Posner Stone Raclette Grill offers a more traditional, rustic cooking experience thanks to its natural granite stone surface. Stone is excellent for even heat distribution and provides a great sear on vegetables and meats. It comes with eight pans and spatulas, making it well-equipped for a full group. The main thing to remember is that stone takes longer to pre-heat than metal plates, so plan accordingly. It is a reliable, well-priced unit that feels sturdy and performs consistently. If you enjoy the unique flavour profile that stone grilling provides, this is an excellent choice.
Gourmia Raclette Sombrero Grill
The Gourmia Raclette Sombrero is a charming, space-efficient grill that is perfect for small tables or intimate dinners. Its unique design is a conversation starter, and it is surprisingly effective at melting cheese quickly. Because of its 600W power and smaller size, it is not intended for large parties, but for a couple or a small group of friends, it is ideal. It is very easy to clean and store, making it a low-maintenance addition to your kitchen. If you are short on space but still want to enjoy the raclette experience, this is a fantastic, budget-friendly option.
Domo DO9188G Six Person Raclette Grill
The Domo DO9188G is a straightforward, no-frills raclette grill that hits the sweet spot for medium-sized gatherings. With a six-person capacity, it is slightly more compact than the standard eight-person models, making it easier to fit on a standard dining table. The non-stick coating is effective, and the unit is very intuitive to operate. While it lacks advanced temperature controls, it maintains a consistent heat that is perfect for casual dining. It is a reliable, affordable appliance that does exactly what it promises without any unnecessary complications.
FAQs
Can I use any cheese in a raclette grill?
While traditional Raclette cheese is best due to its melting properties, you can use any good melting cheese like Gruyère, Emmental, or even mature Cheddar.
Is a stone plate better than a non-stick metal plate?
It depends on your preference. Stone provides a better sear and retains heat longer, but non-stick metal is much easier to clean and heats up faster.
How do I clean the non-stick pans?
Always wash them by hand with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid the dishwasher, as it can degrade the non-stick coating over time.
Can I use the grill for things other than cheese?
Absolutely! The top plate is perfect for grilling vegetables, thinly sliced meats, seafood, and even eggs or crepes.
Do I need to pre-heat the grill?
Yes, always pre-heat for 5-10 minutes before adding your food to ensure the surface is hot enough for immediate searing.
