Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB Natural Gas Grill review with infrared side burner insights

Description

Key Features of the Napoleon P500RSIBNSS-3 Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill

Testing out the Napoleon P500RSIBNSS-3 Prestige 500, I quickly realized that this isn’t your average backyard grill. From the stainless steel construction to its infrared burners, this grill feels like a powerhouse that combines durability with professional-grade cooking capabilities. It’s marketed as a full outdoor kitchen, and honestly, that claim doesn’t feel far-fetched. With its 500 square inches of cooking space and an additional 260 square inches on the warming rack, I found myself grilling for a crowd without breaking a sweat.

The JETFIRE ignition system deserves some applause. Lighting the burners was seamless—no fiddling with matches or lighters. Each burner lit instantly, and the backup feature, where burners can ignite each other, gave me peace of mind. As someone who has dealt with stubborn grills in the past, this was a game-changer.

Highlights of Using This Grill

• Four stainless steel burners deliver up to 48,000 BTUs of heat, ensuring even cooking. I tested everything from burgers to veggies, and nothing came out undercooked.
• The infrared sizzle zone side burner, which heats up to 1,800°F in just 30 seconds, was perfect for achieving that steakhouse-quality sear. My steaks have never looked or tasted better.
• The included rotisserie kit is not just a gimmick—it’s robust and made it super easy to roast chicken evenly, thanks to the 18,000 BTU rear burner.
• With safety glow knobs, I could grill late into the evening without fretting about leaving burners on accidentally. These knobs glow red when in use, an excellent safety feature.

For anyone who loves to entertain, the size of the cooking area is a definite upside. The ability to cook 31 burgers simultaneously is no exaggeration. Even though I wasn’t hosting a party, I appreciated the space when juggling various dishes.

Areas of Concern

While the Prestige 500 is impressive, there are some shortcomings worth noting:

• At 196.6 pounds, this grill is not the easiest to maneuver. Even though it’s freestanding, moving it requires a good bit of effort.
• Assembly was a bit of a marathon. While the manual was clear, it took a while to piece everything together. Having a second pair of hands would have made a difference.
• The rotisserie basket accessory is sold separately. It’s a minor gripe, but it would’ve been nice if it was included, given the premium feel of the product.

Design and Build Quality

The stainless steel finish is sleek and modern, giving the grill a premium look that elevates the aesthetic of any patio. I was particularly impressed by how solid the construction felt. The dual-level sear plates not only provided even heat distribution but also reduced flare-ups significantly. Even after multiple uses, cleaning the grill was straightforward, thanks to its painted finish and accessible compartments.

The warming rack was another handy feature. I used it to keep buns warm while grilling, and it doubled as extra cooking space when I needed it most.

Performance and Cooking Experience

Performance-wise, the NAPOLEON PRESTIGE 500 exceeded my expectations. The infrared burners delivered consistent and reliable heat, while the side burner reached incredibly high temperatures for quick searing. I tried a mix of recipes, from thick ribeye steaks to delicate fish fillets, and the results were consistently impressive.

The rotisserie kit was one of my favorite features. Roasting a whole chicken was not only easy but also resulted in juicy, evenly cooked meat with a perfectly crisp skin. It’s worth noting that the rear infrared burner played a huge role in achieving that restaurant-quality finish.

Competitive Options

When comparing this grill to others in its class, such as Weber’s Summit line or Broil King’s Regal Pro series, several distinctions stood out. The Prestige 500 shines with its infrared sizzle zone and robust heat output. The JETFIRE ignition system also sets it apart, as I’ve faced ignition issues with other brands in the past.

However, competitors like Weber often excel in portability and assembly ease. I found that moving the Prestige 500 was more challenging than moving some of Weber’s models. Additionally, Broil King grills are known for their affordable rotisserie accessories, making them a bit more accessible in that department.

Price Performance

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, the Prestige 500 is a strong contender. The premium materials and advanced features justify its cost, especially for serious grill enthusiasts. While it’s not the cheapest option, you’re paying for a grill that functions as an outdoor kitchen. For those who grill frequently and want versatility, it’s an investment that pays off in the long run.

That being said, if you’re someone who only grills occasionally or has a tighter budget, there are more budget-friendly alternatives that might suit you better. However, for its range of features, the Prestige 500 offers true value for those who use their grill as a primary cooking tool.

Testing this grill felt like stepping into the shoes of a professional chef. Whether you’re searing steaks, roasting a rotisserie chicken, or juggling multiple dishes for a family gathering, the Prestige 500 delivers on all fronts. Its stainless steel design, power-packed burners, and thoughtful features make it a standout choice for grilling enthusiasts.

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