Griddle pans are usually made from cast iron and they have ridges in the base these are what marks with the food with charred marks as on steaks chicken breast etc.
You get the pan really hot and just lightly spray with oil when smoking add whatever your cooking.Personally I dont think grilling wouldnt give the same effect.
They are like the George Foreman plates that sear the food.
Hope this has helped a bit Im not very good at explaining what I mean.
