Napoleon Grills Review | Fire-Ready Perfection

Napoleon Grills Review: Sizzling Stainless Steel Power

A top-notch outdoor grill can transform average weekends into memorable cookouts that spark conversation and satisfy appetites. You crave a model that doesn't just sear meat but elevates your entire grilling game with advanced burners, premium materials, and easy-to-use features—leaving you free to relax and enjoy the mouthwatering results.

Enter the stainless-steel beast known as the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB. It's engineered for power, precision, and reliability, all while offering sleek style and exceptional heat retention. In this breakdown, you'll see its standout qualities, any obvious shortcomings, and why it could be the perfect fire starter for your next backyard feast.

Product Details – Napoleon Grills Review

• Main Burners
  4 burners
• Cooking Space
  500 sq. in
• Side Burner
  Infrared
• Rear Burner
  Infrared
• Ignition
  Jetfire
• Night Light Knobs
  LED-lit
• Grill Grates
  Stainless steel
• Cart Material
  Stainless steel
• Total Weight
  197 lbs
• Dimensions
  26.5″ D x 66.25″ W x 50.25″ H
• Rotisserie Kit
  Included
• Warranty
  Limited Lifetime

Best For: Serious grillers wanting professional-grade performance, premium materials, and a spacious cooking area.

Napoleon Grills Review – Pros & Cons

Pros of the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB

• Incredibly high heat output for steakhouse-style searing
• Rotisserie burner delivers succulent roasting results
• Large cooking area for feeding crowds
• Quick, reliable Jetfire ignition system
• Sturdy, eye-catching stainless-steel build
• Lighted control knobs for nighttime grilling

Cons of the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB

• ❗ Cabinet doors can be tricky to align
• ❗ Wheels aren't ideal for very rough surfaces

The Napoleon gas grill has received mostly positive reviews for its powerful burners, spacious layout, and sleek, long-lasting construction. Users appreciate its even cooking abilities and added features like the infrared side burner and rotisserie kit.

In-Depth Review – Napoleon Grills

When you're aiming for a real showstopper at your next cookout, the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB has your back with an impressive combination of craftsmanship, performance, and innovation. This section dives deep into every corner of the grill experience—from construction materials to real-world functionality—giving you a transparent window into its strengths and a few minor pitfalls.

Overall Construction and Aesthetic 

Right out of the box, this grill aims to turn heads. Its stainless-steel exterior doesn't just look shiny—it's built to resist rust, withstand heat, and stay structurally sound over multiple grilling seasons. The robust lid design features a "Lift Ease" top that opens smoothly, easing stress on the hinges and your arms. If you've wrestled with cheap, wobbly grill lids in the past, you'll appreciate the difference here.

On the front, you'll find double cabinet doors that provide extra storage. However, some owners mention the doors can be somewhat finicky to align. They do close, but achieving that perfect, flush look might require a little patience during assembly. That said, once in place, the doors feel solid enough to keep your grilling accessories secure.

What truly stands out is the sophisticated finishing. It's obvious Napoleon has put care into each metal edge. The control panel is neatly arranged, with large, comfortable dials that coordinate with the LED "Night Light" feature. Once the sun goes down, these knobs glow so you can fine-tune temperatures without guessing. The whole aesthetic screams "premium," which is exactly what many grill masters want as the centerpiece of their outdoor cooking station.

Stainless steel also extends to the grill grates, giving you serious durability and easy cleanup. Metal scouring pads or grill brushes can be used without fear of damaging the cooking surfaces, allowing you to maintain a pristine look for years. Splatters, marinade drips, and sauce spills wipe off with little fuss. So you can definitely see the brand's emphasis on longevity.

Equally important, the standard cart design offers the flexibility to move it around your deck or patio, though the wheels—like many grills—are better suited to flatter surfaces. If your space includes gravel or a bumpy yard, it may require some maneuvering. Still, the overall build quality is robust, matching the brand's reputation for excellence.

Performance and Heat Distribution 

A grill is only as good as its ability to transform raw ingredients into mouthwatering dishes, and here the Prestige 500 RSIB seriously shines. Four main stainless-steel burners produce a combined 48,000 BTUs, which translates to intense, evenly distributed heat. Whether you prefer direct or indirect grilling, the temperature control is up to the challenge. The "Dual Level Sear Plates" help reduce flare-ups by catching and vaporizing drippings—this not only enhances flavor but also keeps your cooking surface more stable.

One key highlight is how quickly this grill can hit searing temperatures. Some older grills can feel like they take forever to climb past 400°F. This model easily breaches that in well under 10 minutes, and can surpass 700°F on the main surface if you crank it. That's more than enough to lock in the juices of a thick T-bone. The stainless sear plates are carefully positioned to ensure your entire grate sees consistent heat, helping reduce those dreaded hot and cold zones.

Then there's the infrared side burner—also known as the "Sizzle Zone"—which can reach a scorching 1,800°F in just half a minute. While that might sound over-the-top for the uninitiated, an ultra-high temperature zone is actually fantastic for creating a restaurant-grade crust on steak. It's also your best friend if you're partial to quickly charring delicate fish or sealing your sous-vide meats. Some folks even use the side burner for a quick pan fry or sauté, as it's simply the hottest portable cooktop they have.

Additionally, the rear infrared rotisserie burner, offering about 18,000 BTUs, is specifically crafted to deliver succulent roasts, poultry, and other rotating delicacies. By focusing radiant heat behind your food, you avoid direct flames that could scorch your meal. Instead, you get even browning and the ability to maintain a constant cooking temperature. Combined with the included heavy-duty rotisserie kit, you can experiment with everything from whole chickens to prime rib roasts.

Despite all that power, this grill remains surprisingly stable at lower temps. So if you're into slow-cooking or smoking, you can keep the burners dialed low for an extended period. Overall, the Prestige 500's burners excel in range, speed, and consistency—three qualities that define top-tier grilling.

Ignition and Ease of Use 

Fighting with a lighter every time you want to barbecue is no fun, and the Jetfire ignition system is here to eliminate that hassle. Each main burner has its own dedicated igniter, so you can fire up the grill with minimal clicks. Just twist the dial, and you'll hear a flame-throwing action that's more dependable than the old spark-based systems. For an extra measure of reliability, Napoleon designed a "back channel" that allows burners to light off of each other if one fails to ignite on the first try.

Beyond ignition, the knobs are large, spaced out, and labeled, reducing guesswork. The synergy of easy lighting plus intuitive controls means you don't waste time fiddling with your grill. Once everything's running, you can monitor the temperature via the built-in thermometer on the lid. In real-world usage, the lid thermometer does a decent job, although some owners prefer adding a secondary digital probe for meat or even a multi-probe setup to track multiple temps simultaneously.

If you enjoy nighttime or low-light grilling, the LED "Night Light Knobs" are a small but noteworthy convenience. They illuminate from within, changing color if a burner is on, so there's less risk of accidentally leaving a burner running. More importantly, it just looks cool—a nice finishing touch that sets this grill apart visually and functionally.

Cleaning is also relatively straightforward. All big grills have more surfaces to wipe down, but the stainless steel is simple to keep looking sharp with a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner. The drip pans, though somewhat shallow, slide out for easier disposal of grease. While you'll still need to stay on top of scrubbing, it's no worse than the norm and might be simpler than many standard grills thanks to the well-thought-out design.

Accessories and Rotisserie Perks 

For a lot of grill owners, rotisserie cooking is the ultimate test of a grill's versatility. The Prestige 500 RSIB comes with a robust, stainless rotisserie kit, which feels substantial enough to handle a whole chicken or even a small turkey. The rods rotate smoothly, and the rear infrared burner adds consistent heat that fosters even browning. Whether you're spinning a lamb roast or rotating a load of veggies in a separate basket, it's a fantastic way to add variety to your barbecue repertoire.

Rotisserie attachments can sometimes be an afterthought in lesser grills, with cheaply made motors that fail. But here, the included rotisserie kit is a sturdy piece of gear that will probably outlast some stand-alone rotisserie sets you might find online. There's also an optional basket accessory—purchased separately—which makes it easy to toss in wings or vegetables. This feature is a game-changer for fans of roasted potatoes or cauliflower since the constant motion ensures everything cooks uniformly.

Another thoughtful detail is the warming rack above the main grates. It's roomy enough for toasting buns or keeping finished items warm without overcooking them. And with 260 square inches, it can hold more than you might expect, making large-scale meal coordination a cinch. If you're juggling multiple courses—like burgers for the kids, veggies for your vegetarian friends, and a massive roast for yourself—you'll appreciate having this extra space.

Given the grill's size and array of cooking tools, you do need an adequate outdoor footprint to house it properly. While not exactly gargantuan, it's certainly larger than a two-burner economy grill, so measure your patio space beforehand. Once set up, the side shelves offer handy real estate for your utensils, seasonings, or that refreshing beverage you'll be sipping while you wait for the perfect sear.

Durability and Maintenance 

One of the top concerns with premium outdoor equipment is how well it holds up to the elements. Napoleon's stainless-steel build is designed to handle sun, rain, and most conditions as long as you practice basic maintenance. Keeping the grill covered when not in use will extend its life and preserve its shine. Many owners also notice that the cooking grates and internal components resist rust far better than traditional cast-iron setups, especially when properly cleaned and lightly oiled.

A separate highlight is the brand's commitment to manufacturing robust parts. The burners, sear plates, and even knobs exhibit a sense of heft and quality in the hand. If something does go wrong, a limited lifetime warranty underlines how Napoleon stands behind their products, which is always reassuring when you're investing in a higher-end grill.

On the flipside, the wheels and cabinet alignment can be minor annoyances. If you plan on moving the grill regularly, invest in a suitable path or plan on some muscle. The cabinet doors, as mentioned, might require a bit of fiddling to hang just right. Still, these details don't detract from the overall longevity or cooking performance. They're more about aesthetic perfection or mobility convenience—useful to know in advance but hardly dealbreakers.

Drawbacks and Potential Pain Points 

Even the best grill has a few quirks. As frequently reported, aligning those cabinet doors can be a headache. Some owners also lament that for a grill of this caliber, the wheels could be more rugged. If your deck or patio is extremely uneven, you may need to keep the grill in one primary spot. But these cons pale in comparison to the overall performance.

Additionally, the price point can feel like a significant investment. However, many long-term owners argue you're paying for reliability, expansive features, and top-tier materials. Over time, the cost might balance out, especially if you grill frequently and want a product capable of heavy use.

Another smaller hiccup is that occasionally grease can accumulate if you forget to clean the drip trays. The grill's high heat can mitigate flare-ups, but consistent thorough cleaning is essential. With these caveats noted, the general consensus is that the Prestige 500 RSIB is among the top contenders in the premium grill space.

Who Is the Napoleon Grill Perfect For? 

• Enthusiasts who crave professional-grade searing and cooking results
• Families needing enough grill space to cook for large gatherings
• Adventurous cooks who love to experiment with rotisserie or high-heat side burners
• Fans of sleek, stainless-steel aesthetics and easy-to-clean surfaces
• Busy grillers who want a fast and reliable ignition system

Who Might Not Fall in Love With It? 

• Those with extremely limited space or an unpaved backyard layout that makes maneuvering a large grill tedious

No one wants to force a perfect grill into a cramped spot, so if your outdoor area is very small, you might look at more compact models. Other than that, the Prestige 500 RSIB is flexible enough to suit everyone from novices to top-tier pitmasters who want an all-in-one station.

Customer Experiences With Napoleon Grill

We carefully analyzed real-world feedback from buyers using the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB to get an authentic glimpse into daily ownership. Here's a snapshot of what stood out:

• Robust Durability and Recovery: Owners often mention a top-tier build that withstands windstorms and heavy usage. The grill recovers from knocks or tip-overs with minimal damage, proving its strong craftsmanship.
• Excellent Even Heat: Users continually praise the grill's ability to maintain steady heat across the entire cooking surface. This is especially handy when preparing multiple items at different temperatures.
• Surprising Rotisserie Versatility: Individuals who previously doubted rotisserie cooking now find themselves using it frequently to perfect whole chickens or roasts. The included motor and rod combination consistently handle decent loads.
• Smooth and Fast Ignition: Many highlight how seamlessly the grill fires up with just a twist. The Jetfire system appears far more reliable than older spark igniters found in budget models.
• High-End Packaging and Assembly: Several users applaud the meticulous packaging that prevents damage in transit. Assembly can take a couple of hours, but the parts fit together well.
• Customer Service and Warranty: In the rare event a component arrives damaged or misaligned, Napoleon's support is generally reported to be responsive, sending out replacements swiftly.

Complains

• Wheels on Rough Ground: A handful wish the wheels were sturdier, as the grill is heavy, making it difficult to roll on anything that isn't concrete or a similarly flat surface.
• Cabinet Doors Can Be Annoying: Some note the doors don't always line up perfectly without careful assembly. It's not a major flaw but can be a minor cosmetic nuisance.

Overall, the majority of feedback revolves around how the grill consistently delivers succulent, evenly cooked meals and feels premium from the first assembly onward. Some small quality-of-life concerns exist, but these rarely overshadow the immense cooking power.

Value Analysis – Napoleon Grill

Purchasing a grill is more than a weekend fling—it's an investment in countless meals, family gatherings, and potential holiday feasts. So, does the Napoleon Prestige 500 RSIB justify its price tag and hype?

One immediate standout is how this grill isn't just a four-burner system; it's practically an all-in-one outdoor kitchen. You get an infrared side burner for high-heat searing, a rear infrared rotisserie burner for succulent roasting, and spacious main grates to accommodate up to 31 burgers at once. Throw in stainless steel throughout, LED knob lights, and the robust Jetfire ignition, and it's evident that Napoleon aims to address every possible cooking scenario. That broad feature set is what pushes this grill from standard to premium territory.

In terms of daily performance, it's not merely about raw BTUs. The dual-level sear plates and well-engineered burners help you control heat distribution. This means you can tackle direct, high-temp recipes like crispy-skinned salmon or perfectly seared strip steaks, then pivot to gentle, indirect cooking for items like ribs or brisket. This adaptability adds real-world value because you're not limited to a single cooking method.

Key Strengths: Construction, Consistency

• Rock-Solid Construction: Stainless steel—from the hood to the main body—dominates the build, protecting against rust, weather exposure, and everyday wear. Strong build quality generally leads to longer life.
• Even Temperatures: The layered sear plates and advanced burner design help maintain consistent grilling zones. If you host big parties, consistent heat means fewer burnt edges and raw centers.
• Infrared Versatility: Both the side burner and rear burner rely on infrared technology. This helps you reach extremely high searing temps quickly, as well as maintain even coverage for rotisserie cooking.
• User-Friendly Knobs and Ignition: Quick starting and easy temperature adjustments reduce frustration so you can focus on cooking.

Considerations: Upkeep and Maneuverability

• Ongoing Cleaning: Like any high-performance device, you need to maintain cleanliness. Grease management is straightforward, but it must be done regularly to prevent any buildup issues.
• Cabinet Alignment: Getting those doors to close flush may require some fiddling. This isn't a performance issue, but it's worth noting for perfectionists.
• Wheels on Uneven Terrain: The heavy chassis moves best on a flat deck, so if you need something extremely mobile on rough terrain, you might want to consider an additional rolling platform or keep it in one spot.

The Napoleon Grills Review propane gas grill is an excellent investment for those seeking premium craftsmanship, robust heat performance, and extended cooking versatility. With its sophisticated design and reliable burners, it offers an outstanding combination of style and substance—ideal for grilling enthusiasts, large families, and anyone aiming to level up their outdoor cooking adventures.

Final Remarks: Is Napoleon Grill Worth It?

The Napoleon propane gas grill delivers powerful burners, durable stainless-steel construction, and impressive features like the infrared sizzle burner. It's perfect for searing and rotisserie cooking alike, though the cabinet doors and average wheels might pose minor inconveniences for some users.

FAQs – Napoleon Grills Review

Is the Napoleon Grill complicated to assemble?

Setting up the Napoleon Grill typically takes a few hours and is easier with two people. Most of the main firebox components arrive pre-assembled, so you'll mainly build the cart and attach the side shelves. Detailed diagrams in the manual guide you through each step, although some patience is required to align the doors. Users often highlight the thorough packaging that keeps parts protected during shipping, reducing the risk of scratches or dents before you even start.

Does the Napoleon Grill include a rotisserie system?

Yes, the Napoleon Grill comes with a heavy-duty rotisserie kit right in the box. It includes a sturdy spit rod, meat forks, and a robust electric motor designed to hold everything from chickens to roasts. The rear infrared burner ensures even heating while rotating your food, resulting in juicier, more uniformly cooked meats. Some owners also buy the optional rotisserie basket for additional versatility—like perfectly tossing wings or veggies without scorching.

How does the infrared side burner on the Napoleon Grill work?

The Napoleon Grill includes an infrared "Sizzle Zone" side burner that can heat up to 1,800°F in about 30 seconds. Infrared technology uses a gas burner beneath a ceramic or metal surface with numerous tiny ports. The surface quickly becomes extremely hot and emits infrared radiation, which sears meat faster than a conventional flame. This high-heat method caramelizes the exterior of steaks, chops, or fish fillets, sealing in juices and enhancing flavor.

Is there enough cooking space on the Napoleon Grill for larger gatherings?

With roughly 500 square inches of main cooking area, the Napoleon Grill provides enough room to handle up to 31 burgers simultaneously. It also has a 260 square-inch warming rack for extra storage or gentle cooking. Users hosting family reunions or big neighborhood cookouts report having ample space to grill multiple food types at once—steaks, veggies, chicken, or even specialized items like kebabs or corn on the cob.

Does the Napoleon Grill support natural gas, or only propane?

The Napoleon Grill comes factory-fitted for propane. However, Napoleon offers a natural gas version of the same model if you'd rather hook it up to a natural gas line. Be cautious: you can't simply convert a propane unit to natural gas without the correct conversion kit and instructions from the manufacturer. Always check your local codes or consult a professional when installing a direct natural gas line.

How does the Jetfire ignition on the Napoleon Grill perform?

The Napoleon Grill uses the Jetfire ignition system, which provides a reliable "shoot of flame" that lights each burner rapidly. Each burner has a dedicated igniter, so you only turn on the knob you need, and it typically lights within one or two clicks. Even if one igniter fails, there's a back channel that lets adjacent burners light the failing one, giving you confidence the grill will fire up even after prolonged storage or windy conditions.

Can you smoke food on the Napoleon Grill?

Although the Napoleon Grill is primarily a gas grill, it's versatile enough to handle light smoking tasks. Many owners place wood chips in a smoker box or wrap them in foil directly on the sear plates to add a smoky layer to their meats. For extended smoking at lower temperatures, you can turn off or lower certain burners to create indirect heat. While it's not a dedicated smoker, the grill's strong heat control features let you experiment quite effectively with various smoking techniques.

Are the cooking grates on the Napoleon Grill difficult to clean?

The Napoleon Grill features stainless-steel cooking grates that simplify cleanup. After grilling, simply run a wire brush or scouring pad over them while they're still warm to dislodge debris. Stainless steel typically resists corrosion better than cast iron, so you won't need to season or worry about rust. For tougher drips, heat the grill to a high temperature for a few minutes, let the residue burn off or loosen, then brush it away.

How do the "Night Light Knobs" on the Napoleon Grill help?

The Napoleon Grill knobs illuminate for better visibility during evening or early-morning barbecues. This LED backlighting allows you to see burner settings clearly in low-light conditions, so there's less fumbling or accidental misadjustments. Additionally, the knobs glow red when a burner is active, serving as a helpful safety reminder that the grill is on—particularly handy in busy gatherings or if you momentarily step away.

What is included under the limited lifetime warranty for the Napoleon Grill?

Napoleon stands behind the Napoleon Grill with a Presidents Limited Lifetime Warranty that typically covers major components like the lid, cooking grates, burners, and more against defects in workmanship or materials. While each part may have specific coverage durations, the essential idea is that the core stainless-steel components are built to last. If any issues crop up, Napoleon's customer service is known to be responsive and quick to dispatch replacement parts, ensuring you get the most from your grill investment.

Napoleon Grills Review – Conclusion

The Napoleon Propane Gas Grill merges sizzling performance, sturdy stainless-steel construction, and thoughtful features into a single package. Designed to make grilling approachable yet powerful, it offers infrared burners, a rotisserie system, and quick Jetfire ignition—letting you juggle everything from high-heat searing to slow roasting without a hitch. Rotisserie fans, steak lovers, and anyone wanting to push the boundaries of outdoor cooking will find plenty to praise.

Although it comes with a steeper price tag than your run-of-the-mill grill, its superior heat control, robust burner options, and an included rotisserie kit can justify that cost for serious pitmasters. The main hiccups, such as cabinet door alignment and average wheels, are small trade-offs against the overall reliability and performance. If you're prepared to make a solid investment in your outdoor cooking space, this shining Napoleon model stands ready to elevate your grilling adventures.