As we add more cooking space, cooking power and additional functionality, the price of the grills starts to rise. Also, the grills start to look more like the appliances in an upscale home’s kitchen—or a restaurant.

Weber Performer 22 1/2" Black Charcoal Grill Less than $350

For its “Performer” grill, Weber has taken its classic kettle and added some great functionality. The grill is set into a cart so you now have the work surface you need and won’t have to have a table next to the grill.

One great feature is you no longer have to worry about starting the grill: it has Touch-N-Go gas ignition of the charcoal using disposable propane bottles. The cart has a Char-Bin charcoal storage. The unit includes an easy One-Touch cleaning system with a removable black aluminum ash catcher. They’ve also added a heavy-duty plated hinged cooking grate for indirect cooking.

Charmglow Porcelain Series 5 Burner Less than $400 The Charmglow Porcelain 5 Burner Grill has classic styling and heavy-duty cast iron end caps. The 896 square inches of total cooking area allows you to cook for a large group. With 60,000 BTUs of power, this grill also has handy features such as porcelain coated cooking grates and a 12,000 BTU side burner, for preparing side dishes and sauces. This unit has quite a bit of storage as well..

If you like this manufacturer’s products, but want to go up to their next level, try their:

Charmglow 5 Burner Stainless Steel with Rotisserie Less than $600 The spacious cooking surface—926 square inches--and 60,000 BTUs give you the grilling power you need and the unique Rotisserie unit gives you additional menu choices. Multiple storage features with a convenient side table drawer and pull-out trash can cabinet. Side dishes and sauces are easily prepared on the 12,000 BTU side burner.

About the Authors || Contact
Copyright© 2008 Brian Hill and Dee Power   All Rights Reserved