Boretti Tonello charcoal barbecue – Compact Italian design for authentic grilling experience

The Boretti Tonello charcoal barbecue combines the best of two worlds: authentic Italian design with the reliability of a Dutch brand. Boretti, known from The Great Garden Makeover, is synonymous with quality and stylish outdoor kitchens. This compact charcoal barbecue has been specially developed for those who love the pure taste of charcoal grilling, but don't have access to a huge garden or patio. With its thoughtful dimensions and high-quality finish, the Tonello is ideal for families of up to 5 people who enjoy cosy barbecue evenings.

What really sets this barbecue apart are the robust cast iron grill grates that create those characteristic grill marks and ensure optimal heat distribution. At just 41 centimetres wide, the Tonello fits on virtually any balcony or patio, whilst the grilling surface is spacious enough for a complete meal. The compact dimensions (41 x 53 x 51.5 cm) go hand in hand with a surprisingly low weight of 4.12 kilos, making it easy to move the barbecue around. Yet the whole thing exudes the solid quality you'd expect from Boretti.

Features & benefits of the Tonello charcoal barbecue

Cast iron grates for restaurant quality

The heart of every barbecue is formed by the grill grates, and Boretti deliberately chooses cast iron. This material retains heat longer than stainless steel and produces that perfect Maillard reaction that professional chefs so appreciate. The cast iron grates of the Tonello create beautiful grill marks on your meat, fish and vegetables, whilst distributing heat evenly across the entire grilling surface. Once properly seasoned, these grates develop a natural non-stick coating that only increases your grilling enjoyment.

Compact dimensions without compromise

With a grilling surface suitable for 5 people, the Tonello proves that compact doesn't necessarily mean small. The clever layout ensures you have sufficient space for burgers, sausages, spare ribs and vegetables all at once. The height of 51.5 centimetres is perfectly calibrated for comfortable grilling without bending, whilst the depth of 53 centimetres provides adequate distance between charcoal and grate. These thoughtful proportions make the difference between a pleasant grilling session and back pain the next day.

Heat-resistant handles for safe use

Safety is paramount at Boretti, which is why the Tonello is equipped with heat-resistant handles. These remain cool enough to touch, even when the barbecue is running at full temperature. You can safely lift the lid to check on your food or move the barbecue without risking burns. This practical addition makes the Tonello particularly suitable for families with children playing nearby whilst grilling is taking place.

Lightweight construction with robust appearance

At just 4.12 kilos, the Tonello is among the most mobile barbecues in its class. This makes it ideal for those who regularly move the barbecue, for example from patio to garden or to store it in a garden shed. Despite the low weight, the construction feels solid thanks to the use of high-quality materials and the characteristic Italian design philosophy where form and function come together. The compact design makes off-season storage particularly straightforward.

Applications

Direct grilling for quick dishes

The Tonello is designed for direct grilling methods, where you place food directly above the glowing charcoal. This method is perfect for burgers, steaks, sausages, chicken fillets and marinated vegetables that need to cook quickly at high temperature. With the cast iron grates, you can easily reach temperatures where your meat caramelises on the outside whilst staying juicy inside. This grilling method delivers that authentic barbecue flavour that enthusiasts crave.

Weekend BBQs with family and friends

For cosy weekend gatherings with a maximum of 5 people, the Tonello is an excellent choice. The grilling surface offers enough space to prepare a complete meal all at once, from starter to main course. Thanks to the compact dimensions, the barbecue doesn't take up much space and there's plenty of room on your patio for chairs and tables. The quick start-up time of charcoal means you can begin grilling within 20 minutes of lighting it, perfect for spontaneous barbecues.

Balcony and patio use in urban environments

More and more city dwellers are discovering the pleasure of barbecuing in limited space, and the Tonello is ideal for this purpose. The compact footprint fits on virtually any balcony, whilst the height ensures a comfortable working position. Always check the rules of your apartment association or landlord regarding charcoal use, but in many places where gas barbecues are permitted, charcoal can also be used as long as you handle the heat and smoke responsibly. The light construction also makes it easy to quickly put the barbecue away after use.

Assembly & use

The Boretti Tonello arrives largely assembled, so you'll be ready to grill within minutes. When it arrives, check all parts and tighten any bolts securely. Assembling the handles and placing the grill grates is a matter of minutes, without needing any special tools. Always read the supplied instructions before you start, so you familiarise yourself with all safety regulations.

Before you actually start grilling for the first time, it's important to season the cast iron grates. Do this by first cleaning them with warm water and washing-up liquid to remove any manufacturing residue. Dry them thoroughly and rub them in with a heat-resistant oil such as sunflower oil. Heat the barbecue for 30-45 minutes without food, allowing the oil to settle into the pores of the cast iron. This forms the basis for the natural non-stick coating that only gets better the more you grill. Never clean cast iron grates with aggressive cleaners or in the dishwasher after use, but use a wire brush and perhaps some kitchen paper with oil.

After each use, you can easily remove the ash once it has completely cooled. Preferably store the Tonello somewhere dry, for example in a garden shed or garage. If you leave the barbecue outside, invest in a high-quality protective cover that fits the Tonello's dimensions specifically. This protects the barbecue from the weather and significantly extends its lifespan. Before winter, check all parts, wipe everything clean and oil any hinges. Thanks to the compact size, the Tonello will always find a place in your shed or garage.

Frequently asked questions

How much charcoal do I need for the Tonello?

For an average grilling session of 1-2 hours, approximately 1-1.5 kilos of charcoal or briquettes will suffice. Start with a layer of a few centimetres and add as needed during longer sessions. The compact design of the Tonello ensures efficient fuel use, meaning you'll need less charcoal than larger models. Preferably use high-quality charcoal or briquettes for consistent temperature and longer burn time.

Are the cast iron grates replaceable?

Yes, all parts of Boretti barbecues are available as spare parts, including the cast iron grill grates. At Boender Outdoor we can advise you on the correct replacement parts for your Tonello. With proper care, cast iron grates last for years and only get better. The 2-year warranty on the Tonello also provides extra assurance about the durability of all components.

Can I also use the Tonello for indirect grilling methods?

The Tonello is primarily designed for direct grilling methods where food is placed directly above the charcoal. For classic indirect grilling techniques such as slow cooking or smoking, the barbecue is less suitable due to its compact design. You can create some additional distance by concentrating the charcoal on one side and placing food on the cooler side, but for extensive indirect sessions, larger models from the Boretti range are more suitable.

How quickly does the barbecue reach temperature?

With charcoal or briquettes, the Tonello reaches the correct grilling temperature within 15-20 minutes. Use a firelighter or kindling for the quickest possible result. Wait until the charcoal is covered with a layer of white ash before you start grilling