Abstract: Methods and systems for automatically grilling meats and other food items comprise a movable grate and a plurality of burners that are controlled by a PLC-based control system. The control system automatically controls the speed of the movable grate and the temperature of the burners to automatically grill the meets and other food items. Additional components and equipment are provided that simulate the actions and steps that an operator must perform to produce grilled meats in the style of traditional grilling in a continuous manner over prolonged time periods with no interruption. Automation of processes such as seasoning, grilling, turning over and cutting meats, and grate cleaning are also provided. The above arrangement provides a number of environmentally friendly benefits, including lower fuel use, less contamination, and greater energy savings.