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 used the Napoleon Prestige 500, I was struck by how effortlessly the grill ignited. With its Jetfire ignition system, I simply turned a knob, and the grill fired up instantly, every single time. This ease of use made a strong first impression. Once I started grilling, I was pleasantly surprised by how evenly the heat distributed across the grates, although I did notice a slight temperature difference toward the back. However, by rotating my food, I was able to maintain consistent cooking throughout. This minor adjustment became second nature, and it didn't detract from my overall grilling experience.
What impressed me even more was the sheer size of the cooking surface. With 760 square inches of grilling space, I easily fit 20 burgers on the grill during a recent family barbecue. The extra room allowed me to prepare a variety of dishes at once, and the built-in warming rack was perfect for keeping side dishes warm while I focused on finishing the main course. From weekday meals to larger family gatherings, the Napoleon Prestige 500 has quickly become my go-to for outdoor cooking.
Design and Build Quality of the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
The Napoleon Prestige 500 is more than just a grill—it’s a statement piece for your outdoor kitchen. Its sleek, all-stainless-steel construction gives it a modern, polished look that complements any patio setup. Made from high-grade 304 stainless steel, the grill is not only visually appealing but also built to withstand the elements, promising durability for years to come.
One feature I’ve come to appreciate is the “Lift-Ease” roll-top lid. It’s double-walled and lightweight, making it incredibly easy to open and close, even when multitasking at the grill. This lid also retains heat exceptionally well and requires minimal space to open, which is ideal for those with limited outdoor space. Additionally, the grill’s infrared burner and rotisserie system add versatility, allowing me to experiment with various cooking methods, including searing and roasting, without needing additional equipment.
Cooking Performance of the Napoleon Prestige 500
When it comes to cooking performance, the Napoleon Prestige 500 shines. The four stainless steel main burners produce a combined 48,000 BTUs, making this grill powerful enough for any cooking task. With 760 square inches of cooking space, it can handle everything from weeknight dinners to large weekend gatherings.
The wave-shaped cooking grids contribute to even heat distribution, though the grill does run slightly hotter toward the back. I quickly learned to adjust food placement accordingly, resulting in meals that were evenly cooked, no matter the dish. The grill also features an infrared rear burner and an 18,000 BTU side burner, which are perfect for searing and slow roasting. The rear burner, especially when paired with the included rotisserie kit, is a game-changer for roasting meats to perfection.
Infrared Burners and Searing Capabilities
One of the standout features of the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its infrared burners. The 18,000 BTU side infrared burner has transformed the way I sear steaks. With temperatures reaching up to 1,800°F, I’m able to create a perfectly caramelized crust, locking in all the juices and flavors. The adjustable grate also allows me to easily switch from high-heat searing to lower-heat simmering, ideal for sauces and side dishes.
The infrared technology ensures even cooking and creates impressive sear marks—something Napoleon grills are known for. Whether I’m grilling steaks or simmering sauces, the flexibility and control provided by these burners elevate my cooking experience.
Features That Enhance the Grilling Experience
The Napoleon Prestige 500 is designed with the user in mind, making it an exceptional grill for both beginners and seasoned grill masters. The SafetyGlow control knobs are a standout feature, lighting up red when the burners are in use. This safety feature provides peace of mind, especially when I need to step away from the grill for a moment.
The Jetfire ignition system ensures that the grill starts reliably every time, even after months of use. Flare-ups are also kept to a minimum, thanks to the stainless steel sear plates that vaporize drippings, enhancing the flavor of the food while keeping the grill clean. These dual-level sear plates also help distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, making every grilling session an enjoyable experience.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
Durability is another area where the Napoleon Prestige 500 excels. Constructed from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel, this grill is built to last, even in harsh outdoor conditions. Regular maintenance is simple, thanks to thoughtful design features like the full-width drip pan and accessible grease tray. These components make cleanup quick and easy, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the grill and less time worrying about maintenance.
The Napoleon Prestige 500 also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving me added confidence in the longevity of the product. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their grill reinforces that this is a long-term investment for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Cooking Flexibility with the Napoleon Prestige 500
The versatility of the Napoleon Prestige 500 has changed the way I approach outdoor cooking. With its large grilling area, I can easily prepare meals for both small family dinners and larger events. The main grilling surface comfortably fits up to 20 burgers, and the warming rack is perfect for keeping side dishes or bread warm while I finish the main course.
The infrared burners and rotisserie kit offer additional cooking options, allowing me to sear steaks, roast whole chickens, and grill vegetables—all in one session. This flexibility has turned my outdoor grill into a full-fledged cooking station, capable of handling any meal or occasion.
Accessories and Extra Features
What sets the Napoleon Prestige 500 apart from other grills are the thoughtful extras. The included rotisserie kit, for example, is perfect for slow roasting meats like chicken or pork. Many other grills require this accessory to be purchased separately, making the Prestige 500 an excellent value for the price.
The optional charcoal tray is another fantastic feature, allowing me to convert the gas grill into a charcoal grill when I want that authentic smoky flavor. These additional features enhance the overall grilling experience and make the Napoleon Prestige 500 a truly versatile tool for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Conclusion
After extensive use, I can confidently say that the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is one of the best investments an outdoor cooking enthusiast can make. Its combination of high-quality construction, impressive cooking performance, and thoughtful features like the infrared burner and rotisserie kit make it stand out in a crowded market. Whether you're preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a large barbecue, this grill consistently delivers top-tier results.
If you're looking for a reliable, multi-functional grill that offers both flexibility and durability, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is an excellent choice. It’s a long-lasting, well-rounded grill that will elevate your outdoor cooking experience for years to come.
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 a total of 760 square inches of cooking space, which includes the main grilling area and a warming rack. This ample space can accommodate up to 20 burgers at once, making it perfect for larger gatherings.
Q2: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come with a rotisserie kit?
A2: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 includes a heavy-duty rotisserie kit, complete with a motor, spit rod, counterweight, and forks. The rear infrared burner makes it ideal for slow roasting meats.
Q3: How does the infrared side burner work?
A3: The infrared side burner on the Napoleon Prestige 500 reaches up to 1,800°F, providing intense heat for searing meats. Its adjustable grate allows for versatility, enabling you to lower the heat for simmering sauces or cooking side dishes.
Q4: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 difficult to maintain?
A4: No, the grill is designed for easy maintenance. It features a full-width drip pan and an accessible grease tray, both of which simplify post-grill cleanup. The stainless steel construction is also resistant to corrosion and easy to clean.
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 models. You can also convert the propane version to natural gas with a conversion kit that is sold separately.
Q6: Does the grill come assembled?
A6: The Napoleon Prestige 500 requires assembly. However, users report that the instructions are clear and easy to follow, and the assembly process can be completed 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 added peace of mind about the product's durability.
Q8: Are there hot spots on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A8: Yes, some users have noted that the back of the grill tends to run slightly hotter. However, adjusting the placement of food during cooking can help manage this, ensuring even results.