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.
When it comes to outdoor cooking, there’s nothing quite like grilling. As someone who loves barbecues, I’ve had the chance to try a variety of grills over the years. Recently, I tested the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, and I’m excited to share my experience. From its stunning design to its top-notch performance, this grill exceeded my expectations in many areas.
In this review, I’ll walk you through my thoughts on the Napoleon Prestige 500, including its features, pros and cons, and overall performance. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of whether this grill is the right choice for your outdoor cooking needs.
Personal Experience with the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill
When the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill arrived, I couldn’t wait to set it up. Unboxing it felt like a special occasion, and the first thing that stood out was the sleek stainless steel finish. The weight of the grill also made an impression—it’s hefty, which indicates a durable and well-built product.
The grill came with clear assembly instructions, and all the parts were neatly organized. I managed to assemble it in about an hour, which was surprisingly quick given the grill’s size and complexity. Right from the start, I could tell that this was a high-quality grill, with premium materials and thoughtful design evident in every part, from the burners to the control knobs.
First Impressions of the Napoleon Prestige 500
The Napoleon Prestige 500 impresses immediately with its stylish, modern design. Its stainless steel body not only looks great but also offers excellent durability, making it a perfect investment for anyone who loves grilling. I appreciated the large cooking area right away—500 square inches of primary cooking space, with a total of 760 square inches when including the warming rack, which is perfect for hosting family and friends during gatherings.
The grill is equipped with four stainless steel burners, providing excellent heat distribution. It also has an infrared rear burner and a rotisserie kit, adding to its versatility. Whether you want to grill burgers, steaks, slow-cook a roast, or even use the rotisserie, this grill has everything you need.
Performance of the Napoleon Prestige 500
Once I had the grill set up, it was time to test its performance. Firing up the Napoleon Prestige 500 was simple, thanks to the Jetfire ignition system. The grill heated up quickly, reaching high temperatures in just a few minutes. This was perfect for searing steaks or cooking more delicate dishes that required precise heat control.
The Jetfire ignition system worked flawlessly—lighting the grill was effortless and reliable. I’ve had experiences with other grills where the ignition system wasn’t dependable, leading to frustration, but with the Prestige 500, lighting the grill is seamless.
Another standout feature is the Accu-Probe temperature gauge. This made it easy to monitor the grill’s internal temperature without having to lift the lid constantly, helping me keep the heat consistent and cook food to perfection.
Cooking Experience with the Napoleon Prestige 500
So, how does the Napoleon Prestige 500 perform during real cooking sessions? In one word: fantastic.
The four burners allow for precise heat control, making it possible to create multiple cooking zones—ideal for indirect cooking on one side while searing on the other. This versatility is one of the reasons I love this grill. I can cook different foods at varying temperatures simultaneously, which is incredibly convenient when hosting gatherings.
One of my favorite cookouts was a mixed grill for some friends. I had steaks on one side searing at high heat, vegetables on the other at a lower temperature, and the rotisserie was cooking a juicy chicken. The infrared side burner, which reaches high temperatures quickly, was perfect for searing steaks and locking in their juices. The warming rack also came in handy, keeping cooked food warm without drying it out.
Durability and Design of the Napoleon Prestige 500
A common question about grills is their durability, and I can confidently say that the Napoleon Prestige 500 is built to last. Made with 304-grade stainless steel, the grill is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in various climates—including humid or coastal areas.
The cast iron cooking grates are porcelain-coated, which not only makes them non-stick but also easy to clean. Even after numerous grilling sessions, maintaining the grill’s appearance and performance has been straightforward. The grill’s side shelves fold down easily, which is great for saving space. Plus, the integrated tool hooks and towel racks are thoughtful touches that make grilling even more enjoyable, as everything I need is always within arm’s reach.
Versatility of Cooking Features
What sets the Napoleon Prestige 500 apart from other grills is its versatility. The infrared rear burner and rotisserie kit open up new possibilities for cooking. I had never used a rotisserie before, but after trying it with this grill, it quickly became a favorite feature.
One weekend, I cooked a rotisserie chicken, and the result was incredible—perfectly golden brown on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. The infrared rear burner ensured even cooking, and I was amazed at how easy it was to get restaurant-quality results at home.
The versatility extends to the infrared side burner, which is great for quick searing or high-temperature dishes like stir-fry. I’ve also used it to boil water for corn while grilling burgers on the main burners. The ability to multitask is a huge advantage and something I haven’t experienced with other grills in the same price range.
Ease of Cleaning the Napoleon Prestige 500
Cleaning up after grilling can be a chore, but the Napoleon Prestige 500 makes it easy. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are non-stick, so food rarely sticks, and cleanup is straightforward. After each session, a quick brush-down is usually all that’s needed.
The removable drip tray collects grease and drippings, making cleanup even more manageable. I simply remove the tray, dispose of the contents, and give it a quick wipe. This regular maintenance keeps the grill looking new and ensures peak performance.
Value for Money
The Napoleon Prestige 500 falls on the higher end of the price spectrum, but it’s worth every penny. You’re not just buying a grill—you’re investing in a premium outdoor cooking experience. The combination of durability, versatility, and performance makes this grill a great choice for anyone serious about grilling.
With features like the rotisserie kit and infrared burners included, the value is clear. This grill isn’t just a basic cooking tool; it’s a multifunctional outdoor cooking station that’s built to provide excellent results for many years to come.
Conclusion
After spending considerable time using the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill, I can confidently say that it’s a top choice for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. Its versatility, high-quality construction, and excellent performance set it apart from the competition.
Whether you're an experienced grill master or just starting out, this grill offers a perfect combination of power and precision. The large cooking area, multiple burners, and additional features like the rotisserie and infrared side burner make it suitable for any grilling scenario—from simple dinners to large gatherings.
The Napoleon Prestige 500 has truly exceeded my expectations. If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-performing, and durable grill, I highly recommend this model. It’s more than just a grill—it’s an investment in unforgettable outdoor cooking experiences for years to come.
FAQs for Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill
Q1: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill easy to assemble?
A1: Yes, the grill comes with clear instructions, and most users can assemble it within an hour or two. Due to the grill's size and weight, it’s recommended to have two people for certain parts of the process, but overall, it’s straightforward.
Q2: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come with a rotisserie kit?
A2: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 comes with a rotisserie kit, which allows you to roast meats using the infrared rear burner for even, flavorful cooking.
Q3: How many burners does the Napoleon Prestige 500 have?
A3: The grill features four stainless steel main burners, an infrared rear burner, and an infrared side burner, offering a variety of cooking options.
Q4: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 suitable for cooking for large groups?
A4: Absolutely. With 500 square inches of primary cooking space and an additional 260 square inches on the warming rack, the grill is ideal for hosting large gatherings or family events.
Q5: How durable is the Napoleon Prestige 500 in outdoor conditions?
A5: The grill is constructed with 304-grade stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it highly durable and well-suited for outdoor use in different weather conditions.
Q6: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 have any warranty?
A6: Yes, Napoleon offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Prestige 500, covering most components, giving you peace of mind about its longevity.
Q7: Can I convert the Napoleon Prestige 500 from natural gas to propane?
A7: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is available in either natural gas or propane versions, but it cannot be converted between the two. Be sure to select the version that matches your fuel source.
Q8: How easy is it to clean the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A8: Cleaning is easy, thanks to the porcelain-coated cast iron grates that resist sticking, along with a removable drip tray that collects grease, making maintenance simple after grilling.
Q9: Does the grill come with a cover, or is it sold separately?
A9: The grill cover for the Napoleon Prestige 500 is sold separately, but purchasing one is highly recommended to protect your grill from the elements.
Q10: How efficient is the infrared side burner?
A10: The infrared side burner heats up extremely quickly and reaches high temperatures, which is perfect for searing meat or cooking dishes that require intense heat. It’s one of the standout features of this grill, providing excellent versatility.