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.
As someone who enjoys grilling year-round, finding the perfect grill has always been a top priority for me. Over the years, I’ve cycled through a handful of grills, each with its quirks and shortcomings. When I stumbled upon the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I knew I had to give it a try based on its glowing reviews and promising features.
Fast forward to today, and this grill has become a centerpiece in my outdoor cooking setup. In this review, I’ll dive into my personal experience, highlight its key features, and discuss how it compares to other grills on the market.
Setting Up the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill
Unboxing the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill was an experience in itself. The packaging was secure, with every component carefully organized. I appreciated how the instruction manual provided clear, step-by-step guidance. Although it took me about an hour to assemble the grill, the process wasn’t overly complicated, and the sense of accomplishment after setting it up was satisfying.
Once assembled, the grill looked impressive. Its stainless-steel construction gives it a polished, high-end feel, and the attention to detail in the design is evident. The ergonomic knobs, the soft-close cabinet doors, and the stylish wave-pattern cooking grids all hint at the thought and craftsmanship behind this product.
What Makes the Napoleon Prestige 500 Stand Out?
Superior Heat Control
One of the standout features of the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is its exceptional heat control. Each of the four burners operates independently, allowing me to create different cooking zones. This is especially useful when I’m cooking a variety of foods simultaneously, such as grilling steaks on one side while keeping vegetables warm on the other.
The grill heats up quickly, reaching high temperatures in under 10 minutes. Whether I’m looking to sear meats at a high heat or slow-cook ribs at a lower temperature, the grill offers precise control.
Cooking Versatility
What sets this grill apart from others I’ve used is its versatility. The combination of a main cooking area, an infrared side burner, and a rear burner opens up endless possibilities. For example:
- Infrared Side Burner: This burner is perfect for achieving a restaurant-style sear on steaks. The intense heat locks in the juices, resulting in a flavorful crust. I also use it for quickly boiling water or preparing sauces when I don’t want to go back inside.
- Rear Infrared Burner: This feature has revolutionized my rotisserie cooking. With the optional rotisserie kit, I’ve been able to roast whole chickens, turkey, and even prime rib with minimal effort. The rear burner ensures even cooking and a golden, crispy exterior.
- Main Cooking Area: With 500 square inches of space, I’ve never felt limited, even when hosting larger gatherings. I’ve grilled everything from pizzas to seafood, and the results have consistently been excellent.
Built to Last
Durability is another area where the Napoleon Prestige 500 shines. The stainless-steel construction isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s designed to withstand the elements and heavy use. I’ve used this grill in various weather conditions, and it continues to perform like new. The wave-pattern grids are resistant to rust and maintain their finish even after months of grilling.
The Day I Hosted a Barbecue Party
A true test of any grill is how well it handles a busy barbecue party. A few weeks after purchasing the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I hosted a get-together for family and friends. With nearly 20 people to feed, I needed a grill that could keep up with the demand.
The ample cooking space allowed me to prepare multiple dishes at once. I seared steaks on the side burner while grilling burgers and hot dogs on the main grill. Meanwhile, the warming rack kept side dishes like grilled corn and garlic bread warm. The highlight of the evening was a rotisserie chicken cooked to perfection on the rear burner, earning rave reviews from my guests.
Cleanup was surprisingly easy. The removable drip pan collected grease efficiently, and the stainless-steel cooking grids cleaned up quickly with a brush.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Napoleon Prestige 500
Use the Right Accessories
To make the most of the grill, I recommend investing in a few accessories. The rotisserie kit is a must-have if you enjoy slow-roasted meats. I also picked up a pizza stone, which works wonderfully for baking pizzas with a crispy crust.
Regular Maintenance
Like any premium appliance, regular maintenance will extend the life of the grill. Here’s what I do:
- Clean After Each Use: I brush the cooking grids while the grill is still warm to remove food residue.
- Inspect the Burners: Occasionally, I check the burners for clogs or debris and clean them as needed.
- Keep It Covered: A high-quality grill cover protects the grill from the elements, especially during winter months.
Experiment with Cooking Techniques
One of the joys of owning a versatile grill like this is experimenting with different cooking techniques. I’ve tried smoking meats by adding a smoker box filled with wood chips, grilling delicate fish fillets using a cedar plank, and even baking desserts like grilled peaches with honey.
Comparing to Other Grills in Its Class
During my research, I compared the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill to other popular models, such as the Weber Genesis II and the Broil King Baron series. While all three grills have their strengths, here’s what tipped the scales for me:
- The inclusion of infrared burners is a significant advantage of the Napoleon grill, especially for searing and rotisserie cooking.
- Napoleon’s wave-pattern grids are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, preventing smaller foods from falling through.
- The overall design of the Napoleon Prestige 500 feels more premium, with thoughtful details like backlit control knobs and soft-close cabinet doors.
While the Weber Genesis II offers similar cooking performance, it lacks the infrared burners and doesn’t feel as sturdy. The Broil King Baron is slightly more affordable but doesn’t match Napoleon in terms of build quality or features.
Why the Napoleon Prestige 500 Fits My Lifestyle
As someone who grills multiple times a week, I value reliability, versatility, and ease of use. The Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill checks all those boxes. It’s ideal for both quick weeknight dinners and elaborate weekend feasts. While the initial investment may be higher than some grills, the long-term value it provides makes it worth the cost.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Reviews: Is It Right for You?
If you’re looking for a high-performance grill that offers versatility, durability, and a touch of luxury, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Families who need a spacious cooking area for weeknight meals or gatherings.
- Home chefs who want to experiment with various cooking techniques, from rotisserie to searing.
- Anyone who values premium construction and long-lasting performance.
Product Review Conclusion: Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill Reviews
In conclusion, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is a standout product that delivers on its promises. With its superior heat control, versatile cooking options, and durable construction, it has transformed the way I approach outdoor cooking. While it may come with a premium price tag, the performance and quality make it a worthwhile investment for any grilling enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill
Here are some of the most common questions people have about the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, along with clear and concise answers based on personal experience and product details.
Q: How much cooking space does the Napoleon Prestige 500 provide?
A: The grill offers 500 square inches of primary cooking space, which can fit up to 31 burgers. Including the warming rack, the total cooking area extends to 760 square inches.
Q: Does the grill come with a rotisserie kit?
A: No, the rotisserie kit is sold separately. However, the grill does include a rear infrared burner specifically designed for rotisserie cooking.
Q: Is it easy to assemble the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: Yes, the assembly process is straightforward, and the instructions are clear. It takes about an hour to set up the grill, depending on your experience with assembling similar products.
Q: Can this grill use propane instead of natural gas?
A: The Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill is specifically designed for natural gas. However, a propane version is available if that suits your needs better.
Q: What makes the infrared burners unique?
A: The infrared burners reach extremely high temperatures quickly, making them perfect for searing steaks and achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. They also provide even heat for rotisserie cooking.
Q: Is the grill easy to clean?
A: Yes, the grill is designed for easy maintenance. The stainless-steel cooking grids are simple to brush clean, and the removable drip pan collects grease for hassle-free disposal.
Q: How durable is the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The grill is made of high-quality stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion. With proper care, it can last for many years, even with frequent use.
Q: Are there any smart features, like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity?
A: No, the Napoleon Prestige 500 does not include smart technology. It focuses on traditional grilling excellence with features like backlit control knobs and precision burners.
Q: Can you smoke food on this grill?
A: Yes, you can smoke food by adding a smoker box filled with wood chips. While it’s not a dedicated smoker, the grill’s heat control makes it suitable for light smoking.
Q: Does the grill come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which covers many components of the grill. Specific details vary, so it’s best to check the warranty information provided by Napoleon.
Q: What type of cooking grids does the grill have?
A: The grill features Napoleon’s signature wave-pattern cooking grids, made of stainless steel. They distribute heat evenly and prevent smaller foods from falling through.
Q: How does the JETFIRE ignition system work?
A: The JETFIRE ignition system lights each burner individually with a push of a button. It’s reliable and eliminates the need for matches or lighters.