Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Charcoal Grill review for backyard BBQ enthusiasts

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My Experience with the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Charcoal Grill

Testing out the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill, I felt like I finally had a grill that could handle both an intimate family dinner and a full-on backyard barbecue. As someone who takes grilling seriously, I was curious to see if this large charcoal grill could live up to its claims. There were a lot of positive aspects to it, but a few things definitely stood out—both good and bad. Let’s dig into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The alloy steel construction of this grill immediately felt sturdy. Weighing in at 73.2 pounds, it’s not exactly lightweight, but the weight adds a sense of durability. The black finish gives it a sleek appearance that fits well in any backyard setup. The dimensions, a generous 28.74”D x 58.66”W x 50.39”H, provide plenty of cooking space while still being compact enough to move around, thanks to the wheels.

What I loved most was the collapsible side tables. They’re a lifesaver when juggling utensils, sauces, and that plate of marinated steaks. Plus, the integrated S-hooks on the side tables kept my tongs and spatula easily accessible. However, the bottom shelf could feel a bit crowded if you try to store too many tools or accessories there.

Cooking Performance

Ah, the holy grail of any grill—how well does it cook? The 719 square inches of cooking space is split between a porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grate (498 sq. in.) and a chrome-plated steel warming rack (221 sq. in.). This setup makes it ideal for cooking different types of food simultaneously. I grilled burgers, sausages, and even a few corn cobs all at once without overcrowding the surface.

One feature that stood out was the adjustable charcoal pan. Using the crank handle to fine-tune the height of the charcoal really helped me control the heat, which is crucial when working with delicate cuts. I also appreciated the front charcoal access door, which let me add more charcoal without lifting the lid and losing heat. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference during long cooking sessions.

Heat Control Options

The heat control on this model is nothing short of impressive. Between the lid-mounted stack and the side damper, I could easily adjust the airflow to maintain a steady temperature. I managed to sear steaks at high heat and slow-cook ribs at a lower temperature without any hiccups. If you’re someone who likes experimenting with different grilling techniques, this setup gives you a lot of flexibility.

Positives

The grill has a lot going for it, and these are the highlights that stood out to me:

• Spacious cooking area that can handle multiple dishes at once.
• The height-adjustable charcoal pan lets you control the heat precisely.
• Front charcoal access door minimizes heat loss during cooking.
• Collapsible side tables with integrated hooks for added convenience.
• Durable alloy steel construction ensures it’ll last through multiple seasons.

Shortcomings

While there’s a lot to like, no product is perfect. Here are a few areas that could use some improvement:

• The bottom shelf can feel cramped if you’re storing too many tools or accessories.
• Cleaning the porcelain-enameled grates can be a bit tedious if food sticks.
• The grill’s assembly process was slightly time-consuming; patience is required.

Product Comparisons

While testing this grill, I couldn’t help but think of its competitors like the Weber Original Kettle Premium and the Char-Griller E56720. Compared to the Weber, the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN offers significantly more cooking space, making it a better choice for larger gatherings. On the other hand, the Weber’s compact design and ease of cleaning might appeal to those with limited outdoor space.

The Char-Griller E56720, with its similar price range, also has adjustable charcoal features. However, it lacks the front charcoal access door, which is a huge plus for the Royal Gourmet. In terms of heat control, both grills perform well, but the Royal Gourmet’s lid-mounted stack and side damper system give it an edge for those who want to get more granular with their grilling techniques.

Price to Quality Ratio

When I think about the value proposition of this grill, I can’t help but feel it’s worth the investment. You’re getting a spacious, durable grill with features that rival higher-end models. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the features like the adjustable charcoal pan, ample cooking space, and heat control options offer excellent bang for your buck. If you’re a grilling enthusiast or someone who enjoys hosting outdoor gatherings, this grill is hard to beat for its price point.

Final Thoughts on the Grill

Testing the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Charcoal Grill was an enjoyable experience. Its spacious cooking surface, precise heat control, and thoughtful design elements make it a standout choice for anyone serious about grilling. While there are a few areas for improvement, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Whether you’re searing steaks, slow-cooking ribs, or just grilling up a batch of burgers, this grill delivers consistent performance and versatility.

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