Quick Summary:
Price: $1,499.00
Pros:
- High-Quality Construction: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is made from durable 304 stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion.
- Infrared Side Burner: The infrared burner provides intense heat for perfect searing and can be adjusted for more delicate cooking.
- Even Heat Distribution: The unique wave-shaped grids help distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, preventing hot spots.
- Versatile Cooking Options: With a large grilling area, a rotisserie kit, and multiple burners, this grill offers a variety of cooking methods, including roasting, grilling, and searing.
- Ease of Maintenance: The removable drip tray and stainless-steel components make cleanup simple and convenient.
Cons:
- Hot and Cool Spots: The grill tends to run hotter at the back, which may require food to be repositioned for even cooking.
- High Price: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is relatively expensive compared to other grills in the same category.
When choosing a high-quality grill for backyard cooking, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill emerges as a top contender. As someone passionate about grilling, I’ve found this grill to offer an impressive balance of performance, versatility, and design, making it a valuable investment for anyone looking to build an exceptional outdoor cooking setup.
Initial Experience with the Napoleon Prestige 500
The first time I used the Napoleon Prestige 500, I was impressed with the ease of ignition. The Jetfire ignition system made lighting the grill as simple as turning a knob, starting reliably every time. I was struck by the even heat distribution, though I did notice a slight temperature difference toward the back of the grill. This wasn’t a major issue, as rotating food occasionally ensured even cooking.
With 760 square inches of cooking space, I was able to fit 20 burgers on the main grill during a family gathering, allowing me to cook multiple items at once. The additional warming rack was ideal for keeping side dishes warm while finishing the main courses. This spacious setup makes the Napoleon Prestige 500 suitable for everything from intimate dinners to larger parties.
Quality and Design of the Napoleon Prestige 500
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill stands out with its high-grade 304 stainless steel construction, providing a sleek, modern look and durability for lasting outdoor use. Each component, from the cooking grates to the burners and sear plates, is designed to withstand heavy usage and weather exposure.
A standout design feature is the "Lift-Ease" roll-top lid. The lid is double-walled and lightweight, making it easy to open and close while retaining heat effectively. This design also requires minimal clearance behind the grill, which is ideal for compact outdoor spaces. The addition of an infrared burner and rotisserie system enhances the grill’s versatility, allowing experimentation with different cooking techniques, from roasting to searing.
Performance and Heat Management of the Napoleon Prestige 500
The Napoleon Prestige 500’s performance is excellent, powered by four stainless steel main burners producing up to 48,000 BTUs and a large cooking area. Its wave-shaped cooking grids distribute heat evenly, making it especially effective when grilling delicate items like vegetables or fish. While the back of the grill does tend to run a bit hotter, this can be managed by adjusting food placement as needed.
The infrared rear and side burners are game-changers. The side burner reaches up to 1,800°F, perfect for creating a caramelized crust on steaks while locking in juices and flavors. The rear burner, in combination with the rotisserie kit, is ideal for slow roasting. From burgers to rotisserie chicken, the Napoleon Prestige 500 consistently cooks food to perfection.
Infrared Burners for Searing Excellence
A defining feature of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its infrared burners. The 18,000 BTU infrared burner on the side has revolutionized my steak-grilling experience, achieving restaurant-quality sears. The adjustable grate makes it easy to switch between high-heat searing and gentler cooking, like simmering sauces or warming sides. The infrared heat ensures even cooking and creates those signature sear marks Napoleon grills are known for.
Features That Enhance Grilling Convenience
The Napoleon Prestige 500 isn’t just about power—it’s also designed for convenience. One of my favorite features is the SafetyGlow control knobs, which light up red when burners are active. This adds aesthetic appeal while ensuring I know which burners are on, even if I’m momentarily distracted. The Jetfire ignition system is also highly reliable, igniting with a simple push and turn.
Flare-ups are minimized with stainless steel sear plates, which vaporize drippings and add flavor to the food while keeping the grill clean. The dual-level sear plates help evenly distribute heat, preventing areas from becoming too hot or cold and creating a consistently enjoyable grilling experience.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is exceptionally durable. Constructed from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel, it’s built to last. Cleanup is straightforward, thanks to the full-width drip pan and easily accessible grease tray, allowing for quick and easy maintenance. With regular upkeep, this grill remains in excellent condition over the years, making it a low-maintenance choice for frequent grillers.
The grill also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, offering additional assurance of its longevity and value. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind the product instills confidence that this grill is a worthwhile investment for dedicated outdoor cooks.
Versatile Cooking Options with the Napoleon Prestige 500
The versatility of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is one of its standout features. The large cooking surface allows me to comfortably grill for both small family meals and larger gatherings. The main cooking area can fit up to 20 burgers at once, while the warming rack provides extra space for items like vegetables or side dishes. The infrared burners enhance this versatility, allowing everything from high-heat searing to low-and-slow roasting—all in one efficient unit.
The included rotisserie kit further expands its capabilities. I’ve enjoyed roasting whole chickens and pork shoulders with evenly cooked, crispy results every time. For a smoky flavor, the optional charcoal tray converts the grill into a hybrid, allowing the choice of charcoal grilling when desired.
Additional Accessories and Features
The Napoleon Prestige 500 includes several extras that elevate its user experience. The rotisserie kit is a great addition, as many grills require this to be purchased separately. The rotisserie burner’s infrared heat ensures meats cook evenly with a delicious crust. The optional charcoal tray offers flexibility by allowing propane or charcoal grilling, ideal for adding a smoky flavor to dishes.
Built-in tool hooks and ample storage space keep the grilling area organized, with everything I need within reach. Small details like these contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient grilling experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a high-performance grill that combines durability with unmatched versatility. Whether you’re a weekend BBQ enthusiast or a dedicated outdoor chef, this grill delivers on all fronts. Its solid stainless steel construction, even heat distribution, and extras like the infrared burner and rotisserie kit make it a standout in its class.
The user-friendly design and powerful cooking capabilities ensure consistently successful meals. If you’re searching for a reliable, multi-functional gas grill to elevate your outdoor cooking, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is a top-tier option worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Napoleon Prestige 500
What is the cooking space on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
The Napoleon Prestige 500 offers 760 square inches of cooking space, including the main grilling area and warming rack, providing ample room for up to 20 burgers.
Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 include a rotisserie kit?
Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a heavy-duty rotisserie kit, including a motor, spit rod, counterweight, and forks. The rear infrared burner is ideal for slow roasting.
How does the infrared side burner function?
The infrared side burner heats up to 1,800°F, enabling quick and efficient searing of meats. The adjustable grate also allows for gentler cooking, such as simmering or warming.
Is maintenance difficult for the Napoleon Prestige 500?
No, maintenance is straightforward. It includes a full-width drip pan and easily accessible grease tray, and its stainless steel construction resists corrosion and is easy to clean.
Can the Napoleon Prestige 500 be converted to natural gas?
Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is available in both propane and natural gas models. The propane model can be converted to natural gas with a separate conversion kit.
Does the grill require assembly?
The Napoleon Prestige 500 does require assembly. While setup may take some time, the instructions are clear, and basic tools are all that’s needed.
What warranty is provided for the Napoleon Prestige 500?
The grill includes a limited lifetime warranty covering major components, such as burners and cooking grids, offering assurance of long-term durability.
Are there any hot spots on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
Yes, some users note a slightly hotter area toward the back of the grill, which can be managed by adjusting food placement for even cooking.