Cuisinart Grillster Portable Gas Grill review compact propane BBQ for camping and outdoor cooking

Description

Compact Yet Mighty: Design and Build Quality

I had my hands on the Cuisinart Grillster CGG-059, and the first thing that caught my attention was its sleek stainless steel finish. It’s compact, lightweight, and feels well-built for something that only weighs 13 pounds. The brushed finish gives it a professional look, and the locking lid is a game-changer for portability. Carrying it around was incredibly easy, and I didn’t feel like I was lugging a bulky contraption. With its dimensions of 12″ x 20.5″ x 10.2″, it fits perfectly on smaller patio tables or in the trunk of a car. While the design is commendable, the handle could have been a bit more ergonomic, especially for prolonged carrying.

Powerful Performance with a Portable Punch

Despite its small stature, this grill packs an 8,000 BTU burner that heats up impressively fast. I tested it with a mix of burgers, veggies, and chicken, and the cooking surface reached over 600°F in no time. The 146-square-inch enameled steel grate provided plenty of space for grilling, comfortably fitting about six burger patties at once. It’s perfect for a small gathering, though I wouldn’t count on it for feeding a large crowd. The push-button ignition system worked flawlessly every time, which eliminated the hassle of matches or lighters. However, I noticed that the single burner design might not distribute heat as evenly as larger grills with multiple burners, so I had to shuffle the food around a bit.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

Setting this grill up was almost laughably simple. There’s no assembly required, and it was ready to grill in under five minutes—a definite plus for someone like me who appreciates convenience. The dishwasher-safe cooking grate is a lifesaver! After the barbecue session, I tossed the grate into the dishwasher, and it came out spotless. Scrubbing grates by hand is one of my least favorite chores, so this feature alone makes the Grillster a winner in my book. That said, the grill’s compact size means you need to clean it after every use to keep it from getting grimy.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for camping, tailgating, or small balconies.
• Quick heating and high temperatures ensure food is cooked thoroughly and evenly.
• Dishwasher-safe cooking grate simplifies post-grilling cleanup.
• Tool-free rapid setup eliminates any pre-grilling frustration.

Areas for Improvement

• The heat distribution could be more even, especially for larger cuts of meat.
• The handle design could benefit from padding or a better grip for improved carrying comfort.
• A temperature gauge on the lid would be a welcome addition for more precise cooking.

Good Aspects of Portability

Grilling on the go has never been easier. The lockable lid ensures all parts stay secure during transport, and the compact build fits easily into tight spaces. I took it on a camping trip, and it was a breeze to set up by the fire pit. Its size also makes it ideal for those with limited storage space, like people living in apartments. However, if you’re planning a beachside cookout, just be mindful of wind affecting the flame since it’s an open-grate system.

Other Options in the Market

Compared to other portable propane grills like the Weber Q1200 or the Coleman RoadTrip 285, the Grillster CGG-059 holds its own in terms of price-performance ratio. While the Weber model offers better heat distribution and a built-in thermometer, it’s significantly heavier and pricier. On the other hand, the Coleman RoadTrip provides more versatility with its interchangeable grates but is bulkier to transport. I found the Grillster’s compact design and rapid setup to be its standout features in this segment, making it ideal for casual or occasional grillers.

Worth Every Penny

When it comes to value for money, this portable grill hits the sweet spot. It’s not the most advanced grill out there, but for its price and intended use, it delivers exactly what it promises. The stainless steel construction, combined with the ease of portability and cleanup, makes it a worthy investment for anyone who loves outdoor grilling without the hassle of a full-sized setup. Sure, there are areas where it could improve, but at this price point, it’s hard to find a grill that balances compactness, power, and convenience as well as this one.

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