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.
The first time I fired up the Napoleon Prestige 500, I was blown away by how easy and efficient it was to use. As someone who's grilled with various types of equipment, I’m used to dealing with finicky ignition systems, but this was different. With the Jetfire ignition system, I simply turned the knob, and it lit up instantly, every time. It made the entire process feel seamless, and I didn’t have to worry about struggling to start the grill.
When I began cooking, I noticed that the heat distribution was impressively even, although there was a slight variance in temperature toward the back of the grill. This minor issue was easily resolved by rotating the food, and it didn’t impact the overall performance. The grilling experience was smooth and hassle-free, which made my first cookout with the Napoleon Prestige 500 a total success.
Design and Build Quality of the Napoleon Prestige 500
The Napoleon Prestige 500 stands out for its sleek and modern design, which is crafted entirely from high-grade 304 stainless steel. Not only does this make the grill look stunning in any outdoor space, but it also guarantees that the grill will hold up against the elements, maintaining its durability over time. Every component, from the burners to the cooking grates, is built to last, ensuring that this grill is a long-term investment.
One of my favorite aspects of the design is the “Lift-Ease” roll-top lid. It’s double-walled and lightweight, which means it’s easy to open and close without effort. The lid retains heat incredibly well, and since it doesn’t require much clearance behind the grill, it’s perfect for tighter spaces on a deck or patio. The grill also comes equipped with an infrared burner and rotisserie system, which adds versatility and opens up a world of different cooking techniques.
Cooking Performance of the Napoleon Prestige 500
When it comes to performance, the Napoleon Prestige 500 truly shines. The grill boasts four stainless steel main burners that generate up to 48,000 BTUs, offering plenty of power to handle a variety of cooking tasks. The 760 square inches of cooking space provides ample room for larger meals. The wave-shaped cooking grids not only distribute heat evenly but also help create the signature grill marks that make food look professionally prepared. While the back of the grill tends to run slightly hotter, adjusting food placement helps ensure even cooking.
The real game changer, though, is the grill’s infrared burners. The side burner reaches an impressive 1,800°F, allowing me to sear steaks to perfection, locking in the juices while achieving that delicious caramelized crust. The rear burner, paired with the rotisserie kit, is perfect for slow roasting meats, offering a level of versatility that makes this grill one of the best in its class.
Infrared Burners and Searing Capabilities
One of the standout features of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its infrared burner technology. The side burner, which produces 18,000 BTUs, has become my go-to for searing steaks. It gets extremely hot, giving meats a perfectly seared exterior with a tender, juicy inside. The adjustable grate is another practical feature, allowing me to use it for different cooking techniques, from high-heat searing to low-heat simmering for sauces.
The precision of the infrared heat ensures that my food cooks evenly, and the impressive sear marks that result are characteristic of Napoleon grills. It’s a feature I’ve come to rely on, especially when preparing premium cuts of meat.
Features That Enhance the Grilling Experience
The Napoleon Prestige 500 is loaded with features designed to make grilling more enjoyable and convenient. One of the most practical is the SafetyGlow control knobs. These knobs light up red when the burners are in use, providing both a safety feature and a stylish touch. The Jetfire ignition system is another highlight, as it guarantees reliable start-ups every time, even after prolonged use.
Another feature that I particularly appreciate is the stainless steel sear plates. These plates help prevent flare-ups by vaporizing drippings and simultaneously enhancing the flavor of whatever is on the grill. The dual-level sear plates evenly disperse heat, which means no one area of the grill is too hot or too cold, allowing for a consistent cooking experience.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Durability is one of the main reasons I was drawn to the Napoleon Prestige 500. Its all-stainless-steel construction is not only resistant to corrosion but also easy to maintain. The grill features a full-width drip pan and an accessible grease tray, making post-cooking cleanup incredibly simple. I’ve found that with just a quick wipe-down after each use, the grill stays looking almost brand new.
The grill also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is a testament to its durability. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind the product gives me confidence that this grill will serve me well for years to come.
Cooking Flexibility with the Napoleon Prestige 500
One of the best aspects of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its flexibility. With 760 square inches of cooking space, I can easily prepare meals for both small dinners and large parties. Whether I’m grilling 20 burgers for a family gathering or just a couple of steaks for a weeknight dinner, the main grilling surface has ample room. The warming rack is a great addition, offering extra space to keep sides warm or to toast buns while I finish grilling the main course.
Beyond standard grilling, the included rotisserie kit and infrared burners allow for a wide range of cooking techniques. The side infrared burner is perfect for searing, while the rear burner is ideal for slow-roasting meats on the rotisserie. This versatility has completely changed the way I approach grilling, allowing me to experiment with different methods and expand my culinary skills.
Accessories and Extra Features
What sets the Napoleon Prestige 500 apart from other grills is the range of accessories and extra features that come with it. For instance, the included rotisserie kit is a fantastic addition, allowing me to roast whole chickens and other large cuts of meat with ease. Many grills require this accessory to be purchased separately, so the fact that it’s included adds value to the package.
Another optional accessory that I love is the charcoal tray, which transforms the propane grill into a charcoal setup. This is perfect for when I want to infuse my food with that classic smoky flavor. These thoughtful extras truly elevate the grilling experience and make the Napoleon Prestige 500 a versatile and well-rounded choice.
Conclusion
In my experience, the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is an exceptional investment for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. Its superior construction, excellent cooking performance, and user-friendly features make it a top contender in the world of grills. Whether you’re grilling for weeknight dinners or hosting a large gathering, this grill consistently delivers great results. The combination of thoughtful design elements, like the infrared burners and rotisserie kit, along with its durability, ensures that this grill will enhance your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.
FAQs for the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
Q1: What is the total cooking space on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A1: The Napoleon Prestige 500 provides 760 square inches of cooking space, which includes the main grill and the warming rack. This ample space allows for cooking up to 20 burgers at once, making it ideal for large gatherings.
Q2: Does the grill include a rotisserie kit?
A2: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a heavy-duty rotisserie kit, which includes a motor, spit rod, counterweight, and forks, making it perfect for slow-roasting meats.
Q3: How does the infrared side burner work?
A3: The infrared side burner reaches temperatures up to 1,800°F, making it perfect for searing meats. The adjustable grate allows for lower-heat cooking when needed, such as simmering sauces or warming dishes.
Q4: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 easy to maintain?
A4: Yes, it is. The grill features a full-width drip pan and a grease tray that are easy to remove and clean. The stainless steel construction also resists rust and is easy to wipe down after use.
Q5: Can I convert the Napoleon Prestige 500 to natural gas?
A5: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is available in both propane and natural gas models. You can convert the propane model to natural gas using a conversion kit, which is sold separately.
Q6: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come pre-assembled?
A6: No, the grill requires assembly. However, the instructions are clear, and the process is manageable with basic tools.
Q7: What warranty comes with the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A7: The grill comes with a limited lifetime warranty, covering key components like the burners and cooking grids, ensuring peace of mind in its durability.
Q8: Are there any hot spots on the grill?
A8: Some users have reported that the back of the grill tends to be slightly hotter than the front, but this can be managed by rotating food during cooking.