Expert: BBQ Woman - 6/3/2008

Question
We are getting ready to purchase a gas grill which will not be under covered area. What has been your experience in the best grills to use? Thanks, Nancy

Answer
This is just my own personal opinion and I am not endorsing any particular grill. Allot depends on how much you are going to use your grill. I do allot of heavy grilling and in the beginning I used to replace grills every year until I got smart and invested in a couple of grills. One is a charcoal pig smoker type grill that is heavy duty cast iron and the other is a stainless steel gas grill.

Since you asked me about gas grills I will explain to you my decision to go stainless. Yes they can be more expensive than other gas grills however I am no longer replacing it every year so long term I am saving money. The other thing I do with my grill is when it is not in use I put a grill cover on it to protect it from the elements. If you plan to do entertaining bigger is better. Even when you are not entertaining you can opt to use only one side for cooking for smaller groups however I can not emphasis enough how convenient it is to cook for large groups with a huge cooking space.
Unless you are into gadgets and actually use a side cooking burner I would not buy one. I never use the side burner for anything and prefer to just have more additional shelving to hold platters or my sauces. I would get one with a thermometer (not sure if they still make them without which is why I mention that). A rotisserie is useful as well.

Just remember this is my personal opinion. Some will disagree with it. Just go out and look at as  many grills as possible before making your decision.

Good luck and happy grilling.
Regards,
Misty