monTEK Tabletop Fire Pit with Flame Plate: features, specs and who it suits

The monTEK tabletop fire pit is a small concrete burner designed to sit in the middle of a table. It gives a patio, balcony or dining table a flame to gather around, and it comes with roasting sticks so it can double as a s'mores maker. Here is how it works and what to think about before using one.

What it is made of

monTEK says the body is cast from CRC concrete, which it describes as heavy and strong enough to resist cracking and tipping. Weight does help with stability: the pit weighs about 11.5 lb (5.2 kg) and measures roughly 15 x 3.9 x 3.7 inches (38 x 10 x 9.4 cm) as listed. Stainless steel burner cups sit inside to hold the fuel, and monTEK says they prevent leakage and heat loss. A ceramic wool lining is described as helping the unit retain heat and extend burn time.

The model has a city-skyline pattern, and the listing mentions a choice of four sizes, so confirm which one you are ordering.

The adjustable flame plate

A flame plate is a cover that sits over the fuel and sets how much of it is exposed. A smaller opening gives a smaller flame and slower burning. monTEK says the plate lets the pit burn for up to 2 hours on a small flame and at least 1 hour on a large one. Those are the brand's figures, and actual times usually depend on the amount of fuel, the temperature and any breeze.

Fuel: what it burns

The listing says the pit runs on isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol or bioethanol, and that the result is clean, smokeless and odourless heat. Alcohol-based fuels typically burn with a pale, hard-to-see flame and produce no wood smoke or ash, which is why this type of burner is popular for tables. Fuel is not included.

The s'mores kit and extinguisher cover

Four extendable roasting sticks are included, which suits marshmallows at a small table. The pit also comes with an extinguisher cover, a lid-style piece used to smother the flame. monTEK reminds users never to pour fuel onto an open flame. As a general rule, let the unit cool fully before refilling, keep fuel well away from the burner, and follow the manual.

Where and how people use it

monTEK pitches it for dinner parties, birthdays and housewarmings, indoors or out. Small open-flame burners put out real heat, so they need a stable, heat-resistant surface and clear space around them. Check the manual about indoor use and ventilation, and keep children, pets, paper and cloth well away from the flame.

What to check before you buy

• Size option: the listing offers four sizes, so confirm the one you want.
• Table surface: make sure it can take heat, and that the pit sits level.
• Fuel: choose a fuel type the manual allows and plan where to keep it.
• Indoor use: read the manual on ventilation and local rules before using it inside.
• Burn time: the stated times depend on the flame setting and the fuel amount.
• What's in the box: burner, flame plate, extinguisher cover and four roasting sticks, but no fuel.

The short version

• A portable concrete tabletop fire pit with stainless steel burner cups.
• Adjustable flame plate; monTEK states up to 2 hours on a small flame and at least 1 hour on a large one.
• Runs on isopropyl alcohol or bioethanol, which is not included.
• Comes with four roasting sticks and an extinguisher cover.
• About 11.5 lb; follow the manual and local rules on open flames.

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