Quick Summary:
Price: $2,549.00
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Options: With four burners, an infrared rear burner, and a rotisserie kit, this grill offers a wide range of cooking options, from searing steaks to slow-cooking roasts.
- Large Cooking Space: The grill provides 500 square inches of primary cooking space, which is ideal for cooking for larger groups or family gatherings.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality stainless steel, the grill is designed to last and withstand the elements, especially in outdoor environments.
- Quick Ignition System: The Jetfire ignition system makes lighting the grill fast and easy, ensuring a seamless grilling experience every time.
- Easy to Clean: With porcelain-coated cast iron grates and a removable drip tray, cleaning up after grilling is simple and hassle-free.
Cons
- Price: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may not be ideal for those on a tighter budget.
- Heavy and Bulky: Its solid construction makes it heavy, which could make it challenging to move around if you need portability in your grill setup.
When it comes to high-end outdoor cooking, few products stand out like the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill. As an avid outdoor cook and enthusiast, I’ve tested a variety of grills, but this one, in particular, has earned a top spot in my grilling arsenal. In this detailed review, I will share my firsthand experience with the Napoleon Prestige 500, exploring its features, performance, design, and overall value. If you’re in the market for a premium gas grill, this might just be the one for you.
What Makes the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Special?
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is not just any grill; it’s a powerhouse designed to elevate your outdoor cooking experience. With four main burners, a rear infrared burner, and a side infrared burner, it offers versatility and precision that few grills can match. Whether you're grilling steaks, slow-cooking ribs, or searing vegetables, the Prestige 500 gives you total control over your cooking.
The high-quality construction and attention to detail set this grill apart from others. Napoleon has truly designed this grill with the home chef in mind, incorporating advanced features that are typically found in commercial-grade models. Let's dive deeper into what makes the Prestige 500 worth the investment.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Design
From the moment I unboxed the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I was impressed by its sleek, professional appearance. The brushed stainless steel body not only looks fantastic but is also built to last. The grill is sturdy and heavy, which is a good sign of its durability. The entire setup feels solid, and I can tell it will withstand harsh weather conditions over time.
The cart has ample storage, with two cabinets that allow for easy access to tools and utensils, and the side shelves are perfect for prepping food or holding plates while cooking. Additionally, the wheels on the cart are smooth, which makes it easy to move the grill around my backyard.
The LED lights on the control knobs are a thoughtful touch, providing an aesthetic appeal and functional illumination, especially if you're grilling at night. The Prestige 500 also comes with a premium grill cover, which is always a plus for keeping your investment protected when not in use.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Burners and Heat Distribution
The most important aspect of any grill is its performance, and the Napoleon Prestige 500 certainly delivers here. The four main burners provide 48,000 BTUs of cooking power, which is more than enough to get the grill hot quickly and evenly. I’ve found that it heats up in no time and maintains a consistent temperature, even when I’m cooking for a large group.
One of the standout features of this grill is the infrared rear burner. I use this burner for rotisserie cooking, and it works flawlessly every time. The infrared heat ensures even cooking, and the meat comes out juicy and tender, with that perfect crispy exterior.
The side burner, also infrared, is another feature I use regularly. It's great for cooking side dishes, sauces, or even boiling a pot of water for corn on the cob. It keeps the main cooking area clear for grilling while still allowing me to prepare multiple dishes at once. This level of versatility is something that sets the Napoleon Prestige 500 apart from other grills in its price range.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Cooking Surface
The cooking surface on the Napoleon Prestige 500 is massive, providing 500 square inches of main grilling area. This gives me plenty of room to cook for a large family or a group of friends. The addition of the warming rack expands the cooking area, giving me even more space to cook or keep food warm while the main course finishes cooking.
The cooking grates are made from high-quality cast iron, coated in porcelain for easy cleaning. These grates do an excellent job of retaining heat and providing beautiful sear marks on meat, which is always a win in my book. After grilling, cleaning the grates is a breeze; they wipe clean with a grill brush, and the porcelain coating prevents food from sticking.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Performance and Searing
One of the aspects of grilling that I absolutely love is achieving a perfect sear, and the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill does this exceptionally well. The powerful burners and the porcelain-coated grates create the ideal conditions for getting those perfect grill marks on steaks, chicken, and vegetables.
The heat distribution is fantastic, with no hot spots or uneven cooking. I’ve cooked everything from delicate fish to thick steaks, and the grill has handled it all without fail. The addition of the infrared side and rear burners means I can sear meats while simultaneously preparing other dishes, a feature I’ve come to rely on when hosting barbecues.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Assembly Process
When I first received the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I was concerned about the assembly process. With so many parts, it seemed like it might be a daunting task. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, and the pieces fit together seamlessly. I was able to assemble the grill by myself in just under two hours, which is relatively quick for a grill of this size.
I recommend having a second pair of hands for some of the heavier components, especially when it comes to attaching the grill’s side shelves and securing the burners. But overall, the assembly process was smooth, and I felt confident in the grill’s stability once it was put together.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Price and Value
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is priced higher than many other gas grills on the market, but in my opinion, it’s well worth the cost. Given its premium construction, advanced features, and overall performance, it represents great value for anyone looking for a top-tier grill. When compared to similar models from other high-end brands, the Prestige 500 holds its own and even offers more features for the price.
If you’re someone who enjoys cooking outdoors and is looking to upgrade your grill, I’d say the investment in the Napoleon Prestige 500 is worth it. It’s durable, versatile, and consistently delivers exceptional results. For the serious griller, this is one product that won’t disappoint.
Product Review Conclusion
After spending several months using the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I can confidently say that it lives up to the hype. From its exceptional cooking performance to its sleek design and advanced features, this grill truly stands out as one of the best options available for outdoor cooking. The combination of high-quality materials, precise heat distribution, and versatile cooking options makes it a top choice for anyone looking to take their grilling to the next level.
Whether you're a seasoned griller or a casual cook, the Napoleon Prestige 500 offers everything you need to create delicious meals with ease. The grill’s powerful burners, massive cooking area, and infrared side and rear burners provide you with total control, while its durable construction ensures it will last for years to come.
In conclusion, if you’re ready to invest in a high-end gas grill that delivers on all fronts, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill should be at the top of your list. Its performance, design, and value make it a standout product in the world of outdoor cooking. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill
Q: What is the cooking surface area of the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 offers a 500 square inch main grilling area, which provides plenty of space to cook for a large group. It also includes an additional warming rack for more cooking options.
Q: How many burners does the Napoleon Prestige 500 have?
A: The Prestige 500 has four main burners, one infrared rear burner, and one infrared side burner, giving you multiple cooking zones for greater versatility.
Q: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 easy to assemble?
A: The grill comes with clear instructions, and while assembly is manageable, it’s best to have a second person help with heavier components. It took me about two hours to assemble it on my own.
Q: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 include a rotisserie?
A: Yes, the Prestige 500 comes with a rear infrared burner, which is perfect for rotisserie cooking. It allows you to roast whole chickens or other meats with even heat and a crispy exterior.
Q: How do the infrared burners work on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The infrared burners use radiant heat to cook food quickly and evenly. The rear infrared burner is ideal for rotisserie cooking, while the side infrared burner is perfect for searing meat or cooking side dishes.
Q: What type of fuel does the Napoleon Prestige 500 use?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is a natural gas grill. It requires a direct hookup to your home’s natural gas line, eliminating the need to replace propane tanks.
Q: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 durable?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s built to withstand harsh weather and long-term use, making it a great investment for the long term.
Q: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 have a temperature gauge?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 includes an integrated thermometer on the lid, which allows you to monitor the internal temperature while grilling.
Q: Can I use the side burner for anything other than grilling?
A: Yes, the side infrared burner is versatile and can be used for cooking side dishes, sauces, or even boiling water, freeing up the main grill for grilling meats.
Q: How easy is it to clean the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is relatively easy to clean. The cast iron grates are porcelain-coated for easy maintenance, and the stainless steel surface can be wiped down with a cloth. A grill brush is also helpful for keeping the grates clean after use.
Q: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come with a cover?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a premium grill cover that helps protect the grill from the elements when it’s not in use.
Q: What is the warranty on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: Napoleon offers a 10-year warranty on the Prestige 500, which covers various parts, including the burners and cooking grates. The warranty demonstrates their commitment to the quality and durability of the product.
Q: Can I use the Napoleon Prestige 500 for indirect cooking?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 allows for indirect cooking by turning off certain burners and cooking food with the heat generated from the others. This is ideal for slow cooking or roasting meats.
Q: How long does it take to heat up the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 heats up very quickly. I’ve noticed it reaches cooking temperature in about 10-15 minutes, depending on the temperature setting. The powerful burners help get the grill ready in no time.
Q: Can I move the Napoleon Prestige 500 easily?
A: Yes, the Prestige 500 comes with smooth-rolling wheels that make it easy to move around your patio or backyard, though it is on the heavier side due to its solid construction. It's best to have a helper if you need to relocate it over a longer distance.