Review of Weber 781001 26.75-Inch One-Touch Gold Charcoal Grill (best, purchase, coat)

[reviewer]

This grill has a large cooking area. The diameter is 26.75 inches, which translates into 145 square inches of additional cooking space, as compared to a standard 22 inch diameter grill. The larger grill surface makes it easier to cook items simultaneously that require various cooking temperatures. For instance, you could push vegetables out to the borders of the grill while keeping meats at the center. It also allows indirect cooking for foods that require sustained, less intense heat, such as whole turkeys or roasts. There is ample room under the hood for taller items, such as a whole beef brisket or beer-can chicken.

The lid and bowl are both made of high-grade steel and are coated with porcelain-enamel in a shiny black finish, both inside and out. It's easy to clean up and retains its attractive appearance. It's also important that the inside of the lid doesn't rust.

Up to four charcoal holder baskets can be suspended under the grill. These make it possible to move charcoal around easily when you want to switch from direct to indirect heat. The stainless steel cooking grill is more durable than the chrome-plated variety on other models and washes clean without any problem. The hinged cooking grate makes it adding more briquettes an uncomplicated procedure.

The one-touch cleaning system consists of an easily removable receptacle that holds a large quantity of ashes and makes clean-up a breeze. It's made of aluminum, so it doesn't rust. The vent on the top of the grill is also made of rust-free aluminum and it has a plastic handle, so it can be adjusted during cooking.

There is a built-in thermometer for monitoring the grill's temperature, so that you know exactly when the coals are ready, and when it's time to add more. The hood's handles are fabricated of glass-reinforced nylon, made to withstand the elements and last for the life of the grill.

This outdoor charcoal grill comes in a box, and it's easy to assemble. However, be sure that the legs are on securely, or it could collapse at an inopportune moment. To put the legs in properly, turn the grill over so you can apply appropriate pressure. The legs seem a bit spindly for this size grill, giving it a top-heavy feel. Fortunately, the wheels are tall and made of crack-proof, all-weather material.

A chimney starter is the best way to bring the briquettes up to cooking temperature quickly, but it has to be purchased separately. The grill retails for $349. It's possible to buy an outdoor charcoal grill for $100, but without the interior/exterior enameling, it will soon rust and need to be replaced. In that respect, cheap is expensive, and this grill is a much better buy.