Quick Summary:
Price: $3,999.99
SKU: 8091393
Pros
- Versatile Cooking Options: The grill's multiple burners, sear station, rotisserie burner, and smoker box offer a wide range of cooking possibilities.
- Exceptional Heat Control: The Snap-Jet ignition system and individual burner controls allow for precise temperature management.
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability and resistance to the elements.
- Flavor Enhancement: The Flavorizer Bars and smoker box add a rich, smoky flavor to your grilled foods.
- Spacious Cooking Area: The large cooking surface makes it easy to cook for large groups without feeling cramped.
Cons
- Price: The Weber Summit FS38 S is priced higher than many other grills on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size: The grill's large size may not be suitable for smaller outdoor spaces, such as patios or balconies.
Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill Review
The Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill is a high-end grilling appliance designed for those who demand nothing but the best in outdoor cooking. With its robust construction, innovative features, and sleek stainless steel design, this grill promises to deliver an exceptional grilling experience. In this review, we'll delve into the specifications, provide a personal perspective, discuss real-life experiences, and outline the benefits and use cases of this top-of-the-line grill.
Specifications
The Weber Summit FS38 S is packed with features that make it a standout choice for serious grillers. Here are the key specifications:
- Burners: 5 stainless steel burners delivering a total of 60,000 BTUs.
- Side Burner: An additional 12,000 BTU side burner for cooking side dishes or sauces.
- Sear Station Burner: An extra 10,600 BTU burner for high-heat searing.
- Rotisserie Burner: An infrared rear-mounted rotisserie burner with 10,600 BTUs.
- Smoker Box: Built-in smoker box with a dedicated 6,800 BTU burner.
- Cooking Area: Total cooking area of 769 square inches (624 sq. in. for the main cooking space and 145 sq. in. warming rack).
- Grates: Stainless steel cooking grates for superior heat retention and even cooking.
- Lid and Cookbox: Stainless steel lid and cast aluminum cookbox for durability and heat retention.
- Flavorizer Bars: Stainless steel Flavorizer Bars that catch drippings and add smoky flavor to your food.
- Ignition System: Snap-Jet individual burner ignition system for quick and reliable start-up.
- Fuel Type: Natural gas (comes with a 10-foot flexible hose).
- Dimensions: 50.5 inches H x 66 inches W x 26.5 inches D.
- Weight: 245 pounds.
- Additional Features: Built-in thermometer, lighted control knobs, tool hooks, enclosed storage cabinet, and side tables.
Review and Personal Perspective
The Weber Summit FS38 S is a true powerhouse in the world of gas grills. As someone who loves hosting outdoor gatherings and experimenting with different grilling techniques, I was immediately captivated by the grill's impressive array of features. The stainless steel construction not only gives it a sleek, professional look but also ensures that the grill is built to last, even in challenging weather conditions.
The cooking performance of the Summit FS38 S is exceptional. The five main burners provide ample heat, ensuring that food cooks evenly across the entire grill surface. The sear station is particularly noteworthy, delivering intense heat that creates beautiful sear marks and locks in the juices of meats. This feature is a must-have for anyone who enjoys grilling steaks or other meats to perfection.
The integrated smoker box and dedicated burner offer a unique advantage, allowing me to infuse my food with a rich, smoky flavor that takes the grilling experience to the next level. Whether smoking ribs, chicken, or fish, this feature provides the versatility to explore different cooking methods and flavors.
The rotisserie burner is another standout feature, perfect for slow-roasting whole chickens or large cuts of meat. The infrared burner ensures even cooking and a crispy, golden-brown exterior, making it an excellent addition for those who enjoy rotisserie cooking.
The lighted control knobs and built-in thermometer add a level of convenience, making it easy to monitor and control the grill's temperature, even during evening cookouts.
Self Experience
My experience with the Weber Summit FS38 S has been nothing short of outstanding. One of the first meals I prepared on this grill was a combination of rotisserie chicken, grilled vegetables, and smoked ribs. The grill's versatility allowed me to cook everything simultaneously, without compromising on quality or flavor.
The rotisserie burner was particularly impressive, delivering a perfectly roasted chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin and juicy interior. The infrared heat ensured that the chicken cooked evenly, with no dry spots or overcooked areas.
The sear station was equally impressive when it came to preparing the ribs. The high heat created a beautiful crust on the outside, while the built-in smoker box infused the meat with a rich, smoky flavor that my guests couldn't stop raving about.
The side burner also proved to be a valuable feature, allowing me to prepare a homemade barbecue sauce while grilling the main course. This added a level of convenience and kept the entire cooking process outdoors, reducing the mess in the kitchen.
One of the aspects I appreciate most about the Summit FS38 S is its ease of use. The Snap-Jet ignition system ensures a quick and reliable start every time, and the lighted control knobs make it easy to adjust the temperature, even in low light conditions. The stainless steel grates are easy to clean, and the grease management system helps keep the grill clean and ready for the next use.
Benefits and Use Cases
The Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill is designed for versatility and caters to a wide range of outdoor cooking needs:
- Versatile Cooking: With five burners, a sear station, rotisserie burner, and smoker box, this grill can handle everything from searing steaks to slow-roasting meats and smoking delicate dishes.
- Large Gatherings: The spacious cooking area makes it easy to prepare meals for large groups, making this grill ideal for hosting family gatherings, parties, or backyard barbecues.
- Year-Round Grilling: The durable stainless steel construction ensures that the grill can withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for year-round use.
- Flavor Enhancement: The integrated smoker box and Flavorizer Bars add a rich, smoky flavor to your food, enhancing the taste and quality of your grilled dishes.
- Convenience: The lighted control knobs, built-in thermometer, and Snap-Jet ignition system make the grill easy to operate, even during evening cookouts.
Conclusion
The Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill is a top-tier grilling appliance that offers an unparalleled outdoor cooking experience. With its combination of advanced features, such as the sear station, rotisserie burner, and smoker box, along with its durable stainless steel construction, this grill is an excellent investment for those who are serious about grilling. While the price may be higher than other models, the quality, performance, and versatility of the Summit FS38 S make it worth the investment. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a large barbecue, this grill delivers consistently outstanding results.
FAQ
Is the Weber Summit FS38 S difficult to assemble?
The Weber Summit FS38 S comes with detailed assembly instructions and all necessary hardware, making the assembly process straightforward. Depending on your experience with assembling grills, it typically takes 2-3 hours to put together.
Can the Weber Summit FS38 S be converted to propane?
No, the Weber Summit FS38 S is designed specifically for natural gas and cannot be converted to propane. However, there are propane models available in the Weber Summit series.
How easy is it to clean the Weber Summit FS38 S?
Cleaning the Weber Summit FS38 S is relatively easy, thanks to the stainless steel grates and Flavorizer Bars, which reduce grease buildup. The grill also features a grease management system that simplifies the cleaning process.
Does the Weber Summit FS38 S come with a warranty?
Yes, Weber offers a 10-year warranty on the Summit FS38 S, covering all parts against defects in material and workmanship, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
What accessories are compatible with the Weber Summit FS38 S?
The Weber Summit FS38 S is compatible with a wide range of Weber accessories, including grill covers, rotisserie kits, and specialized cleaning tools. These accessories can enhance your grilling experience and help maintain the grill in top condition.