Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB Propane Gas Grill review with infrared burners and rotisserie kit

Description

A Professional Tool for Outdoor Cooking Enthusiasts

The Napoleon P500RSIBPSS-3 Prestige 500 RSIB Propane Gas Grill has been a game-changer in my outdoor cooking experience. While I’ve tried several grills over the years, this one truly stands out with its combination of top-tier stainless steel construction, versatile cooking options, and advanced features like the infrared burners and innovative ignition system.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this grill screams durability and elegance. Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, it not only looks sleek but also feels incredibly sturdy. The 500 square inches of main cooking space is a dream for anyone who loves organizing backyard BBQs. I’ve hosted gatherings where I managed to grill over 30 burgers simultaneously, and it was a breeze. The addition of the 260-square-inch warming rack and 140-square-inch side burner gives this grill an edge over many competitors.

The knobs with the SafetyGlow feature are not just a safety bonus but also add a modern touch. The glowing red knobs when burners are on ensure you don’t accidentally leave the grill running. Plus, the free-standing installation type makes it easy to move around or position wherever you need it.

Cooking Performance and Features

This grill is all about power and precision. With four stainless steel burners producing 48,000 BTUs per hour, it provides even heat distribution thanks to the layered stainless steel sear plates. I noticed that these plates not only prevent flare-ups but also help in vaporizing food drippings, which enhances the flavor.

One of the most impressive features has to be the infrared sizzle zone side burner. Heating up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 seconds, it delivers steakhouse-quality sears effortlessly. It’s perfect for steaks, chops, and even quick stir-fries.

The 18,000 BTU infrared rear burner, paired with the included heavy-duty rotisserie kit, has been a delight for preparing rotisserie chicken and even experimenting with a rotisserie basket for veggies and wings. I love the versatility this grill offers—it truly feels like a full outdoor kitchen.

Key Benefits

• Robust stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to the elements.
• Infrared side and rear burners provide exceptional cooking versatility.
• JETFIRE ignition system guarantees a quick and reliable start every time.
• Ample cooking space with a total of 900 square inches, accommodating large gatherings.
• SafetyGlow control knobs add a layer of safety and style.

Areas for Improvement

While the grill excels in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be better:

• Heavyweight design makes it a bit challenging to move around, especially for one person.
• Assembly is required, and while instructions are clear, it still takes time and effort.
• Rotisserie basket accessory is sold separately, which could have been included given the grill’s price range.

Competing Products

In the world of premium grills, this model has some strong competitors, including the Weber Genesis II and the Broil King Regal series. The Weber Genesis II offers a similar quality build and even cooking performance, but it lacks the infrared burners that make the Napoleon stand out. Broil King’s Regal series, on the other hand, provides excellent heat retention but doesn’t match the sleek design and modern safety features of the Napoleon.

What truly sets this grill apart is its infrared technology and the JETFIRE ignition system, which ensure consistent performance every time. However, if mobility and ease of assembly are priorities, some other models might be worth considering.

Bang for the Buck

While this grill is certainly an investment, it offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of durability, advanced features, and ample cooking space makes it worth every penny for serious grill enthusiasts. It’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, but the quality-for-price ratio is hard to beat.

This grill is perfect for anyone who takes outdoor cooking seriously, whether you’re hosting family gatherings or simply enjoy experimenting with different cooking techniques. From sizzling steaks to slow-roasting a whole chicken, it has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool in my culinary arsenal.

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