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 immediately impressed by how quickly the burners ignited. Thanks to its Jetfire ignition system, lighting the grill was as simple as turning a knob, and it consistently started on the first try. I could already tell that this was going to be a game-changing addition to my outdoor cooking setup. I noticed that the heat distribution was mostly even, with just a slight temperature difference toward the back of the grill. This was an easy fix, though—rotating the food allowed for consistent cooking throughout, and the issue felt minor considering the overall performance.
One of my favorite moments with the Prestige 500 was during a recent family gathering. I fired up the grill and had no problem fitting 20 burgers on the main cooking surface. The 760 square inches of space allowed me to grill not only the burgers but also veggies and even some shrimp skewers on the side. It was a breeze to keep side dishes warm using the warming rack while I focused on grilling the main course. The flexibility and ample space of the Napoleon Prestige 500 make it perfect for anything from a quick weeknight dinner to larger events like family reunions.
Design and Build Quality of the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
The Napoleon Prestige 500 makes a bold statement with its sleek, all-stainless-steel design. Made from high-grade 304 stainless steel, this grill is not just about good looks—it's built to endure the elements and provide long-term durability. Every part, from the cooking grates to the burners and sear plates, has been designed with longevity in mind.
The “Lift-Ease” roll-top lid is one of my favorite features. It’s double-walled and lightweight, which makes it super easy to open and close. Not only does it retain heat effectively, but the design also requires minimal space at the back of the grill, which makes it perfect for tighter outdoor spots. The grill also comes with an infrared burner and rotisserie system, adding to its versatility and allowing me to experiment with cooking methods like searing and roasting.
Cooking Performance of the Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
When it comes to cooking performance, the Napoleon Prestige 500 truly excels. It features four stainless steel main burners capable of producing up to 48,000 BTUs, and with 760 square inches of total cooking space, it's one of the top performers in its category. The wave-shaped cooking grids distribute heat evenly, though I did notice that the back of the grill tends to run slightly hotter. Managing this is easy, though—just adjust the placement of the food, and you’ll get perfectly even results.
The infrared rear and side burners are also a standout feature. The side burner, which can reach temperatures as high as 1,800°F, is perfect for searing meats and locking in those precious juices and flavors. The rear burner is ideal for slow roasting, especially with the included rotisserie kit. I’ve used this grill for everything from quick burgers to rotisserie chicken, and it delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Infrared Burners and Searing Capabilities
The infrared burners on the Napoleon Prestige 500 are one of the features that set it apart from the competition. The 18,000 BTU infrared side burner has completely changed the way I grill. I can get an amazing sear on steaks, with that beautifully caramelized crust that makes for a restaurant-quality meal. The adjustable grate also means I can use lower heat for tasks like simmering sauces or warming side dishes. The infrared technology ensures even cooking and impressive sear marks—a signature feature of Napoleon grills.
Features That Enhance the Grilling Experience
User convenience is clearly a priority in the design of the Napoleon Prestige 500. One particularly useful feature is the SafetyGlow control knobs, which light up red when the burners are on. This not only looks cool but also provides peace of mind when I step away from the grill. The Jetfire ignition system has been incredibly reliable, ensuring a consistent start every time I fire up the grill.
Flare-ups are almost nonexistent thanks to the dual-level stainless steel sear plates, which vaporize drippings while keeping the grill clean and adding flavor. These sear plates disperse heat evenly, reducing the risk of hot or cold spots and making the grilling process more enjoyable overall.
Durability and Ease of Maintenance
One of the reasons I’ve come to love the Napoleon Prestige 500 is its durability. It’s made from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel, and it’s clear that this grill is built to last. The full-width drip pan and accessible grease tray make post-cooking cleanup simple and easy, allowing me to focus on enjoying the meal rather than spending a lot of time cleaning up afterward.
The grill also comes with a limited lifetime warranty, giving me confidence in the long-term value of the investment. Knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their product makes this grill an even better buy for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Cooking Flexibility with the Napoleon Prestige 500
Flexibility is one of the biggest strengths of the Napoleon Prestige 500. Thanks to its large cooking area, I’ve comfortably cooked for both small dinners and large gatherings. The main grilling surface can accommodate up to 20 burgers at a time, and the warming rack offers extra space for side dishes like veggies or bread. The inclusion of infrared burners and a rotisserie kit adds even more versatility, making it possible to sear, roast, and grill—all with one unit. This flexibility has completely changed the way I approach outdoor cooking, opening up new possibilities that were simply not feasible before.
Accessories and Extra Features
What really elevates the Napoleon Prestige 500 beyond other grills are the thoughtful extras. The included rotisserie kit is a fantastic addition that has allowed me to try my hand at slow roasting whole chickens, ribs, and even a small turkey. Many other grills require you to buy the rotisserie separately, so this is a nice value-added feature.
Another accessory worth mentioning is the optional charcoal tray. This tray transforms the gas grill into a hybrid charcoal grill, adding a smoky flavor that’s perfect for certain dishes. These extra features give the Napoleon Prestige 500 an edge and make it one of the most versatile and complete grilling systems I’ve used.
Conclusion
The Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill is a standout choice for any serious outdoor cooking enthusiast. With superior construction, exceptional cooking performance, and well-designed features like the infrared burner and rotisserie kit, it offers everything you could want in a high-quality grill. The combination of durability, versatility, and ease of use makes it an excellent investment that will elevate your grilling experience for years to come.
If you’re searching for a reliable, multi-functional gas grill that delivers professional-level results, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is hard to beat. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a larger event, this grill will make sure you get top-tier results every time.
FAQs for Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
Q: What is the cooking space available on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: 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.
Q: Does the Napoleon Prestige 500 come with a rotisserie kit?
A: 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.
Q: How does the infrared side burner work?
A: 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.
Q: Is the Napoleon Prestige 500 difficult to maintain?
A: 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.
Q: Can I use the Napoleon Prestige 500 with natural gas instead of propane?
A: Yes, the Napoleon Prestige 500 is available in both propane and natural gas versions. If you purchase the propane model, you can also convert it to natural gas using a conversion kit (sold separately).
Q: Does the grill come assembled?
A: 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.
Q: What is the warranty for the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: The grill comes with a limited lifetime warranty, covering major components like the burners and cooking grids, providing confidence in the durability of the product.
Q: Are there hot spots on the Napoleon Prestige 500?
A: Yes, some users have noticed that the grill tends to run slightly hotter toward the back. However, this can be managed by adjusting the placement of food while cooking.