When Bob Shingler designed his Evo circular flattop grill, he wanted to create an outdoor appliance that promoted social interaction.

"I was looking for a better way (of grilling) that would allow people to share in the experience of cooking," Shingler, a former software executive, said.

And share they do — in really big groups. The sleek-looking grill has become a favorite of hotels and resorts for presentation-style or "live action" cooking, said Shingler. In this type of cooking, chefs prepare food before an audience or before restaurant diners in an open kitchen.

Sales of the grill have grown by about 40 percent yearly since it was launched nearly 6 1/2 years ago, Shingler said. The Evo's design was influenced by a French flattop stove, a wood cook stove and a cast-iron skillet.