Alright, you lovely lot, pull up a chair, grab a brew – or better yet, something sizzling off the grill! Today, we’re talking about a bit of kit that’s genuinely put the ‘social’ back into bankside angling for me: the Ridge Monkey Grilla BBQ Firepit Edition.
Now, if you know Ridge Monkey, you know they don’t just churn out any old rubbish. They’re about innovation and making our lives on the bank easier and, frankly, more enjoyable. And this Grilla? It’s no exception.
It’s not just a piece of cooking equipment; it’s a statement, a focal point, and the bringer of good times.
Why You’d Use It
Why would you bother lugging a BBQ to the bank, you ask? Simple: because sometimes, a packet of biscuits and a cold sarnie just don’t cut it, do they?
Fishing, especially carp fishing, is as much about the experience, the camaraderie, and soaking up the atmosphere as it is about catching fish. And what’s more quintessential for good vibes than a proper BBQ?
The Grilla Firepit Edition isn’t just about cooking; it’s about warmth, light, and creating a hub.
Imagine those chilly autumn evenings, rods out, alarms set, and a crackling fire warming your toes. Or those glorious summer afternoons, sizzling some proper sausages or even a cheeky steak while you wait for that next take. It elevates the whole experience.
I’ve had countless sessions where a Grilla has saved the day. One time, after a particularly brutal blank on a windy spring day, we decided to get the Grilla out, throw on some burgers, and just have a laugh.
The fish didn’t show, but the mood lifted instantly.
It turned a potentially miserable trip into a memorable one, all thanks to some hot food and a bit of a blaze.
It’s also brilliant for those overnight sessions where you fancy something a bit more substantial than a pot noodle, or when you’ve got a mate visiting your swim.
It’s the kind of bit of kit that makes others walk past and go, “Now that’s the life!”
- Quick and easy to use
- Full stainless steel body
- Removable stainless steel side table
- For use with charcoal and other solid fuels
- Unique space-saving folding mechanism
Key Features
Dual Functionality
This is massive. It’s not just for cooking; it genuinely doubles up as a cracking little firepit, perfect for warmth and ambience on those cooler evenings.
Solid Fuel Exclusive
Designed specifically for charcoal and other solid fuels, meaning proper BBQ flavour and heat, rather than faffing about with gas canisters.
Built Like a Tank
Full stainless steel construction means it’s incredibly durable, resistant to rust, and built to last. You can tell it’s quality just by looking at it.
Compact Folding Mechanism
This is a huge selling point. It folds down incredibly flat (just 3cm high!), making it an absolute doddle to transport and store in even the tightest of car boots or barrow loads.
Handy Side Table
The removable stainless steel side table is a brilliant addition, providing a convenient space for utensils, sauces, or your pint.
Easy to Clean
Being stainless steel, a quick wipe down after use, once cooled, makes cleaning relatively fuss-free.
Pros and Cons
Let’s break down the good bits and the bits that might make you think twice.
Pros
Cons
My Review
Right, let’s get down to the brass tacks and my real-world experiences with the Grilla Firepit Edition.
When Ridge Monkey first dropped this, I was intrigued. I’ve always been a fan of a proper fire on the bank, but doing it safely and responsibly, without scorching the earth or causing a nuisance, is key.
And a BBQ that doubles as a firepit? Now you’re talking!
The first thing that hits you when you get your hands on the Grilla is the build quality.
It’s weighty, but not prohibitively so, and the full stainless steel body just screams “premium.” This isn’t some flimsy sheet metal thing you’ll use once and throw away.
This is built to last. I’ve had mine out in all sorts of weather, from glorious sunshine to driving rain, and it’s shrugged it all off.
The folding mechanism is genuinely clever. I mean, it folds down to just 3cm! That’s thinner than most of my tackle boxes. It slides neatly into the included heavy-duty carry case, which then slips into the side pocket of my barrow or even under the bedchair in the bivvy.
Space is always at a premium when carp fishing, and Ridge Monkey has absolutely nailed it here.
Setting it up is a doddle.
Unclip, unfold, lock the legs, and you’re ready to load your charcoal. The new railed grill is a vast improvement too. It heats evenly, and I’ve cooked everything from juicy sausages and burgers to chicken skewers and even some halloumi on there.
The cooking area is surprisingly generous for its compact size, easily feeding two hungry anglers, or even three if you’re sensible with your portion sizes.
But the real magic happens when the cooking’s done, and you let those coals die down a bit. Then, you can feed it with a few small logs (responsibly sourced, of course!) and it transforms into a cracking little firepit.
I’ve spent countless hours sat by it, watching the flames dance, sharing stories with mates, and just soaking in the tranquillity of the bank. It throws out a decent amount of heat for its size, enough to take the chill off a crisp evening.
The removable side table is one of those small touches that makes a massive difference. Honestly, having somewhere to put your tongs, a plate, or your cold beer while you’re flipping grub is invaluable. It clips on and off effortlessly, and being stainless steel, it’s easy to clean. And the included utensil set?
Proper job!
Good quality tongs, a spatula, and a fork, all stainless steel and slot neatly into the carry case. It just screams “completeness.”
Cleaning is relatively easy. Once it’s stone cold, I’ll usually give the grill a quick scrape, then wipe down the stainless steel body.
A bit of elbow grease, and it comes up gleaming. Just be mindful of ash disposal; always carry a small metal bucket or a heavy-duty bag to ensure you leave no trace.
My only slight quibble, as I mentioned, is the lack of adjustable grill height.
For precise temperature control, especially if you’re trying to do something low and slow, it requires a bit more management of your coals. But for typical BBQ fare, it’s absolutely fine. And, of course, it’s charcoal only.
I love the taste of charcoal-cooked food, but it does mean carrying the fuel and dealing with the ash. But honestly, it’s a minor trade-off for the experience.
Should You Buy It?
So, where does the Ridge Monkey Grilla BBQ Firepit Edition stand in the pantheon of UK fishing paraphernalia? Well, if you’re after a serious piece of kit that combines cooking versatility with bankside comfort and ambience, it’s right at the top.
Compared to other options out there – say, some of the smaller, cheaper foldable grills you might find, or even dedicated bankside gas stoves – the Grilla offers a unique proposition.
Those cheaper grills often feel flimsy, rust quickly, and rarely double as a firepit. Gas stoves are brilliant for boiling water or frying, but they lack that unmistakable BBQ flavour and the warmth of a real fire.
The Grilla sits in its own league, delivering both a proper BBQ experience and a comforting firepit in one robust, incredibly portable package.
Is it a necessity? No, not strictly. But does it elevate your fishing experience, add an element of luxury and enjoyment, and make those longer sessions or social trips genuinely more memorable?
Absolutely.
For anglers who appreciate good food, warm evenings, and a touch of bankside luxury, the Ridge Monkey Grilla BBQ Firepit Edition is an absolute winner. It’s built to last, designed for the angler, and delivers enjoyment session after session.
Get one, you won’t regret it!
- Quick and easy to use
- Full stainless steel body
- Removable stainless steel side table
- For use with charcoal and other solid fuels
- Unique space-saving folding mechanism
Specifications
Approximate dimensions: 47cm (W) x 22cm (D) x 30cm (H)
Approximate dimensions folded: 47cm (W) x 22cm (D) x 3cm (H)
Grill area: 40cm x 20cm
Approximate weight, including all accessories: Dual Fuel – 4.5kg, Firepit Edition – 4.3kg
