Iwatani Portable Gas Grill ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2 - Compact Tabletop Grill

In this review of the Iwatani Portable Gas Grill ABURIYA2 CB-ABR-2, the bottom line is simple: this compact tabletop grill is for people who want a portable, easy-to-use way to sear and skewer foods indoors or at a campsite. The unit's small footprint and cassette gas convenience make setup and cleanup quick, and the grill's design is purpose-built for short, focused grilling sessions. The reviewer found it especially useful for small gatherings where portability and simplicity matter most.

Key Features

• Compact footprint: At 409 x 214 x 131 mm the grill fits on a table without dominating space, making it practical for indoor robatayaki-style cooking or small outdoor meals.
• Lightweight construction: Weighing about 2.4 kg, the unit is easy to carry to a picnic, campsite, or between storage and the table.
• Cassette gas convenience: Uses a cassette gas canister for quick fuel changes and about 90 minutes of continuous high-heat cooking, so you can grill without complex hookups.
• Durable cooking surfaces: The stainless steel grill net and plated steel burners provide a sturdy cooking area that holds up to repeated use and high heat.
• Safety and ignition: Built-in piezoelectric ignition and a pressure sensitive safety device give reliable starts and added safety during operation.
• Flexible grilling modes: Remove the net and set the skewer stays to turn the unit into a tabletop skewer grill for yakitori-style cooking.

Who It's For

The ABURIYA2 is ideal for people who want a portable gas grill for tabletop use: campers, apartment dwellers who cook on balconies or in kitchens where ventilation allows, and hobbyists who enjoy grilling small portions like steaks, skewers, vegetables or dumplings. Its compact size and light weight make it a strong choice for those who prioritize transportability and quick setup.

It is less suitable for large families or parties that need prolonged, high-capacity grilling; the cassette gas runtime and compact cooking area mean frequent refills or multiple batches for bigger groups. Buyers who need near-smokeless indoor grilling should also consider alternatives with integrated smoke management.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Portable and light, making it easy to move and store for seasonal use.
• Simple cassette gas fuel system and piezo ignition for fast starts and straightforward operation.
• Stainless steel grill net and plated components that stand up to grilling heat and are easy to clean.
• Versatile enough to switch between flat grilling and skewered cooking for varied meals.

Cons

• Produces noticeable smoke during use, which can be an issue for indoor environments without strong ventilation.
• Heat distribution receives mixed feedback; it can sear quickly in spots while other areas remain cooler, requiring attention and turning.

Specifications

Body size	409 x 214 x 131 mm
Weight	About 2.4 kg
Barrel / cooking area size	About 280 x 180 mm
Main materials	Steel plate body with powder coating; stainless steel grill net
Ignition	Piezoelectric ignition system
Safety device	Pressure sensitive safety device
Continuous burning time	Approximately 90 minutes (continuous high-fire)

Our Verdict

The Iwatani ABURIYA2 is a smart pick for anyone seeking a compact, portable tabletop grill that delivers good searing and easy setup with cassette gas. It represents good value for solo cooks, campers, and small gatherings, though buyers should be prepared for some smoke and occasional uneven heat. For those priorities, it consistently performs as a useful, transportable cooking tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a single cassette gas canister last?
On continuous high-fire the measured runtime is approximately 90 minutes, though real use time varies by flame setting.

Is the grill easy to clean?
The stainless steel grill net and removable tray make cleaning straightforward; the enamelled water tray helps catch drips for easier maintenance.

Can it be used indoors?
Yes, but due to noticeable smoke you should use it only in well-ventilated indoor areas or outdoors to avoid smoke buildup.