Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB Natural Gas Grill review with infrared side burner insights

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Napoleon P500RSIBNSS-3 Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is a beast when it comes to design. Constructed from high-quality stainless steel, it exudes durability and elegance, making it an excellent centerpiece for any outdoor space. The 66.25-inch width combined with its robust 196.6-pound weight makes it feel like a premium piece of equipment. I immediately noticed the stainless steel sear plates and burners, which not only look sleek but also promise longevity. The free-standing installation means you don’t have to worry about complex setups, and the grill is equipped with a sturdy handle for easy maneuvering. However, the sheer size might be a challenge if you’re limited on patio space.

Performance and Cooking Features

This grill doesn’t just look good; it performs like a champ. With four main burners producing 48,000 BTUs, the heat distribution is incredibly even, thanks to the dual-level sear plates. I tested its ability to handle a large cookout, and it did not disappoint. The 500 square inches of main cooking space is spacious enough to grill 31 burgers at once, and the additional 260 square inches from the warming rack is perfect for keeping food warm without overcooking. The infrared sizzle zone side burner, which heats up to 1800°F in just 30 seconds, was a game-changer for searing steaks. I was genuinely impressed with how quickly it delivered that perfect crust on a ribeye.

The rotisserie kit with an 18,000 BTU infrared rear burner is another standout feature. I tried cooking a whole chicken, and it came out juicy with a crispy exterior. While the rotisserie basket for veggies or wings is sold separately, I’d say it’s a worthy addition for expanding your culinary options. The JETFIRE ignition system is reliable, igniting the burners effortlessly every single time. It even has a back channel between burners to light each other, so you’re never left with an unlit grill.

Ease of Use

Grilling with this unit feels effortless. The safety glow control knobs are a thoughtful touch, glowing red when burners are on, which is helpful during nighttime cooking. The painted finish resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping the grill looking pristine. As someone who’s not a fan of overly complex gadgets, I found the controls intuitive and straightforward. However, assembling the grill was a bit time-consuming; it required patience and some tools, but the end result was worth the effort.

Key Benefits

• Large cooking space: Perfect for hosting parties or family gatherings.
• Infrared burners: Deliver consistent heat and professional-grade searing.
• Rotisserie kit included: Adds versatility to your cooking.
• JETFIRE ignition system: Easy and reliable startup every time.
• High-quality stainless steel: Durable and resistant to wear.

Limitations

Although I was mostly satisfied, there are some hurdles worth mentioning:

• Heavy and bulky: Not ideal for small patios or frequent repositioning.
• Rotisserie basket sold separately: Limits initial versatility unless you invest more.
• Assembly required: Time-consuming and could be challenging for beginners.
• Price: While it’s packed with features, the cost might not be justifiable for casual grillers.

Competing Products

In comparison to other high-end grills, like the Weber Summit S-470 and the Broil King Regal S590 Pro, the Napoleon Prestige 500 holds its own. The Weber Summit offers similar build quality but lacks the infrared sizzle zone burner, which is a standout feature for Napoleon. On the other hand, the Broil King boasts a slightly larger cooking surface but falls short in terms of heat distribution and the reliability of its ignition system. The Napoleon grill’s JETFIRE ignition and rotisserie kit inclusion give it a noticeable edge for those who value convenience and versatility.

That said, the competitors often come with better assembly instructions and slightly easier setups. If grill mobility is a concern, some competing products are lighter, making them easier to move around. However, none of them quite match the Napoleon grill’s combination of powerful infrared technology and sleek design.

Price Performance

When looking at the value for money, I’d say this grill justifies its price tag for those who grill frequently or entertain guests often. The build quality alone feels premium, and the range of features, including the rotisserie kit and infrared burners, adds a professional touch to your cooking. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, the cost-efficiency becomes evident when you factor in the durability and versatility. For someone like me, who loves experimenting with different cooking methods, this grill is worth every penny. However, for casual users or those on a tight budget, there are alternative options that might suffice without breaking the bank.

Additional information