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 it comes to choosing a high-quality grill for serious backyard grilling, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill quickly comes to the forefront. As someone who loves grilling and takes pride in perfecting the art of barbecue, this grill has become a top choice for me. It offers an impressive balance of performance, versatility, and design, making it an ideal investment for anyone looking to create a comprehensive outdoor kitchen experience.
The first time I fired up the Napoleon Prestige 500, I was struck by how quickly the burners ignited. Thanks to the Jetfire ignition system, lighting the grill was as easy as turning a knob, and it started reliably on the first try. I was immediately impressed by the even heat distribution, though I did notice a slight temperature difference toward the back of the grill. However, this wasn’t a major issue—rotating the food every so often ensured everything was cooked evenly.
One of the standout features for me was the size of the grill. With 760 square inches of cooking space, I had no trouble fitting 20 burgers on the main grill during a recent family gathering. The extra space allowed me to cook multiple items at once, and the warming rack was perfect for keeping side dishes warm while I finished grilling the main courses. This kind of flexibility makes the Napoleon Prestige 500 ideal for everything from small weeknight dinners to larger parties.
Design and Build Quality of the Napoleon Prestige 500
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill makes a strong impression with its all-stainless-steel construction. Crafted from high-grade 304 stainless steel, it not only boasts a sleek and modern look but also promises durability and longevity, even in harsh weather conditions. From the cooking grates to the burners and sear plates, every part of this grill feels robust and built to last.
One of my favorite features is the “Lift-Ease” roll-top lid. It’s double-walled and lightweight, making it easy to open and close while effectively retaining heat. The design also requires minimal clearance behind the grill, allowing for more versatility in outdoor setup—even in tighter spaces. Additionally, the infrared burner and included rotisserie system make this grill highly versatile, allowing me to experiment with a variety of cooking techniques such as roasting and searing.
Cooking Performance of the Napoleon Prestige 500
When it comes to performance, the Napoleon Prestige 500 certainly delivers. Equipped with four stainless steel main burners that produce up to 48,000 BTUs and a large cooking area, this grill has quickly become one of my favorites in its class. The wave-shaped cooking grids are designed to distribute heat evenly, which is especially beneficial when grilling delicate items like vegetables or fish. I did notice that the back of the grill runs a bit hotter, but this can be managed by simply adjusting the food placement during cooking.
The infrared rear and side burners are real game-changers. With the side burner reaching temperatures up to 1,800°F, I was able to sear steaks with a perfect caramelized crust, locking in the juices and flavor. The rear burner, paired with the rotisserie kit, is ideal for slow roasting. Whether it’s burgers, veggies, or a whole rotisserie chicken, the Napoleon Prestige 500 ensures that the food is consistently delicious and cooked to perfection.
Infrared Burners and Searing Capabilities
A defining feature of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its infrared burners. The 18,000 BTU infrared burner on the side has been a revolutionary addition to my grilling. It’s perfect for achieving that signature sear on steaks—the kind that is only possible with high, intense heat. The adjustable grate allows you to switch between searing and more delicate cooking methods, like simmering sauces or warming side dishes. The infrared heat guarantees even cooking and those impressive sear marks, which are a hallmark of Napoleon grills.
Features That Enhance the Grilling Experience
The Napoleon Prestige 500 isn’t just about power; it’s also designed with user convenience in mind. One of my favorite features is the SafetyGlow control knobs. These knobs light up red when the burners are on, which not only adds an aesthetic flair but also ensures I always know when a burner is active—even if I’m momentarily distracted. The Jetfire ignition system also deserves a mention. It makes lighting the grill a breeze, starting reliably with just a push and a turn of the knob.
Flare-ups are minimized thanks to the stainless steel sear plates, which vaporize drippings and enhance the flavor of grilled food while keeping the grill clean. The dual-level sear plates ensure even heat dispersion, preventing any particular area from becoming too hot or cold, which makes for a consistently enjoyable grilling experience.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Another reason the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill stands out to me is its impressive durability. The 304 stainless steel construction is resistant to corrosion, and with regular maintenance, this grill can serve for many years. After each grilling session, cleanup is straightforward thanks to the full-width drip pan and the easily accessible grease tray. I find that maintaining this grill requires minimal effort, which means more time enjoying the food and less time worrying about upkeep.
The grill also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which provides an additional layer of assurance regarding its long-term value. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind the product gives me confidence that this grill is a solid investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking.
Cooking Flexibility with the Napoleon Prestige 500
One of the standout features of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its incredible flexibility. With a large cooking surface, I’ve been able to comfortably grill for both small dinners and larger events. The main cooking area can fit up to 20 burgers at once, while the warming rack provides extra space for items like veggies, bread, or sides. The infrared burners further enhance this flexibility, making everything from searing to slow roasting possible—all in a single, well-designed unit.
The included rotisserie kit is another versatile addition. I’ve enjoyed roasting whole chickens and pork shoulders, and the results have always been evenly cooked with a perfectly crispy exterior. For times when I’m in the mood for a smoky flavor, I use the optional charcoal tray, which turns the gas grill into a hybrid setup—providing an added layer of flavor to my dishes.
Accessories and Extra Features
The Napoleon Prestige 500 sets itself apart from other grills with a number of thoughtful extras. The inclusion of a rotisserie kit is a great value, as many grills require this to be purchased separately. The rotisserie burner is infrared, delivering steady heat and ensuring meats cook evenly while developing a delicious crust. Additionally, the optional charcoal tray adds flexibility by letting me switch between propane and charcoal grilling, which is perfect when I want that traditional smoky flavor.
The grill also features built-in tool hooks and ample storage space, which helps keep my grilling area organized. I love how everything I need is within reach—it’s the little details like these that make grilling a more enjoyable experience.
Product Review Conclusion
In conclusion, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a durable, high-performance grill with unmatched versatility. Whether you’re a weekend griller or someone who enjoys experimenting with various cooking methods, this grill will meet your needs. Its solid stainless steel construction, even heat distribution, and extra features like the infrared burner and rotisserie kit make it a standout in its class.
The ease of use combined with powerful cooking capabilities ensures that every meal cooked on this grill is a success. If you’re searching for a reliable, multi-functional gas grill to elevate your grilling experience, the Napoleon Prestige 500 should definitely be at the top of your list.
FAQs for Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
Q1: What is the cooking space available on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A1: The Napoleon Prestige 500 offers 760 square inches of total cooking space, including the main grilling area and the warming rack. This space is ample enough to grill up to 20 burgers at once, making it ideal for larger gatherings.
Q2: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come with a rotisserie kit?
A2: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a heavy-duty rotisserie kit, which includes a rotisserie motor, spit rod, counterweight, and forks. The rear infrared burner is perfect for slow roasting meats on the rotisserie.
Q3: How does the infrared side burner work?
A3: The infrared side burner on the Napoleon Prestige 500 reaches extremely high temperatures (up to 1,800°F), allowing for quick and efficient searing of meats. The adjustable grate also allows you to lower the heat for simmering or cooking side dishes.
Q4: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 difficult to maintain?
A4: No, the grill is relatively easy to maintain. It features a full-width drip pan and an easily accessible grease tray, both of which make cleanup simple. The stainless steel construction also resists corrosion and is easy to wipe down after use.
Q5: Can I use the Napoleon Prestige 500 with natural gas instead of propane?
A5: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is available in both propane and natural gas versions. If you purchase the propane model, you can convert it to natural gas using a conversion kit (sold separately).
Q6: Does the grill come assembled?
A6: The Napoleon Prestige 500 requires assembly. However, users have noted that while assembly may take some time, the instructions are clear, and the process is manageable with basic tools.
Q7: What is the warranty for the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A7: The grill comes with a limited lifetime warranty, covering major components like the burners and cooking grids, providing confidence in the product's durability.
Q8: Are there hot spots on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A8: Yes, some users have noticed that the back of the grill tends to run slightly hotter. However, this can be managed by adjusting the placement of food while cooking.