Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB Gas Grill review stainless steel powerhouse for outdoor cooking

Description

A Sturdy Design That Commands Attention

The Napoleon P500RSIBPSS-3 Prestige 500 RSIB Propane Gas Grill is a beast of a machine, and its stainless steel construction instantly screams durability. Unboxing this grill was a workout in itself; at nearly 197 pounds, you know it’s not going anywhere once it’s set up. The sleek, polished finish makes it look like it belongs in a professional outdoor kitchen. I especially appreciated the free-standing design, which allowed me to move it to different areas of the patio, though let’s be honest—it’s not something you’d want to relocate too often. The attention to detail is evident, from the stainless steel handle to the precision-built control knobs that even glow red when the burners are on, thanks to the SafetyGlow feature.

Cooking Performance That Sets the Bar High

Testing this grill was a pleasure. With four stainless steel main burners producing 48,000 BTUs, I was able to cook evenly across the 500-square-inch main cooking surface—enough space to fit around 31 burgers in a single go. That’s not even counting the extra 260 square inches on the warming rack or the 140 square inches on the side burner. The infrared sizzle zone side burner became my go-to for searing steaks. It heats up to an impressive 1800 degrees in just 30 seconds, delivering that crisp, mouth-watering crust that rivals a steakhouse.

The dual-level stainless steel sear plates are another standout feature. They vaporize drippings to prevent flare-ups, and the flavor they add to food is undeniable. I also tested the infrared rear burner, which comes with a rotisserie kit. It’s perfect for slow-cooking meats like chicken or even experimenting with a rotisserie basket for vegetables or wings (though the basket itself is sold separately).

Key Benefits

Here are some of the features that stood out:

• Jetfire ignition system ensures a reliable start every time, with a backup channel allowing burners to light off each other.
• Infrared sizzle zone side burner reaches extreme temperatures quickly, perfect for high-quality searing.
• SafetyGlow knobs are not just convenient but also an excellent safety measure.
• Ample cooking space, making it ideal for large gatherings or family cookouts.

Areas for Improvement

While this grill is undeniably powerful and efficient, there are a few areas where it could improve:

• Assembly can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not handy with tools.
• The rotisserie basket, which would have been a perfect addition, is sold separately.
• A grill of this size and weight needs wheels that are more robust for easier maneuvering.

Ease of Use and Features

Using the Napoleon Prestige 500 feels intuitive, even for someone like me who isn’t a grilling guru. The jetfire ignition system is a game-changer. Forget fumbling with matches or lighters—this thing lights up effortlessly every single time. The dual-level sear plates distribute heat evenly, ensuring there are no cold spots. I grilled everything from burgers and steaks to veggies, and the results were consistently impressive.

One of the underrated features is the little details, like the warming rack. It’s not just for keeping food warm; I used it to toast buns and even slow-cook some corn on the cob. The heavy-duty rotisserie kit is another gem, although I wish it came with more accessories included.

Competing Products

Compared to other grills like the Weber Genesis II or the Broil King Regal, the Napoleon Prestige 500 holds its own. The infrared side burner is a feature that many competitors lack, giving it an edge when it comes to versatility. However, the Weber Genesis II does offer better wheels for mobility and slightly easier assembly. Broil King, on the other hand, provides more affordable options but falls short in terms of overall cooking power and build quality. The Napoleon grill’s stainless steel finish and superior heating elements make it a more premium choice, though it may not be the most budget-friendly option.

Cost-Effectiveness

This grill isn’t cheap, but you get what you pay for. The build quality, performance, and features make it worth the investment if you’re serious about outdoor cooking. It strikes a great balance between durability and functionality, offering excellent value for the price. While competitors may come with a lower price tag, they often sacrifice features like the infrared burners or rotisserie kit, which are invaluable for those who love experimenting with their cooking.

To sum up, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is a powerhouse for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. It has its quirks, but the performance, design, and features easily outweigh any minor drawbacks. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a grilling enthusiast, this is a product that delivers on its promises.

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