Comprehensive review of Monument Grills Mesa220 propane gas grill with Clearview lid

Description

An Eye-Catching Design with Practical Features

The Monument Grills Mesa220 is a head-turner right out of the box. Its sleek black finish, accented by stainless steel, gives it a modern and polished look perfect for any backyard or patio setup. The foldable side shelves make this grill incredibly space-efficient, which is a blessing for those with smaller outdoor areas. I found the locking casters to be a particularly thoughtful touch, ensuring the grill stays firmly in place during use, but rolls easily when you need to move it. The Clearview Lid is not just functional but also a great conversation starter; you can actually watch your food cook without losing heat—how cool is that?

The integrated hooks and built-in bottle opener? Let me just say, those little details make a huge difference. It’s super convenient to keep your tools within arm’s reach and crack open a cold drink without having to leave the grill.

Cooking Performance That Impresses

As a grilling enthusiast, I put a lot of pressure on the 450 sq. in. cooking surface, and this grill did not disappoint. The 24,000 BTU stainless steel burners heat up quickly and provide consistent temperatures across the grilling area. I’m talking about perfectly even sear marks on steaks and juicy burgers—no cold spots here! The enameled cast iron grates are a dream to cook on, distributing heat evenly and resisting wear over time. I even cooked some delicate fish fillets, and they came out flawless without sticking.

The addition of a warming rack with 130 sq. in. of space is a lifesaver for juggling multiple foods. Keeping buns warm or resting cooked meat while finishing veggies felt seamless. And the sensitive temperature gauge integrated with the Clearview Lid? It’s incredibly accurate, letting you monitor the cooking process without any guesswork.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Operating this grill couldn’t be simpler, thanks to its electronic ignition system. A quick push of a button, and you’re ready to go—no fiddling with matches or worrying about safety. I also appreciated the intuitive knob lighting feature, which distinguishes between the grill’s off and high heat modes with white and red lights. This feature made grilling in the evening a breeze.

Cleaning up after a barbecue can be a chore, but the enamel-coated grates on this grill are a game-changer. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth was all it took to restore them to their original shine. The grease pan is easily removable, adding to the overall convenience.

Key Benefits

• 450 sq. in. of cooking area with additional warming rack for flexibility.
• 24,000 BTU stainless steel burners deliver consistent heat and durability.
• Clearview Lid enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
• Foldable side shelves and compact design save valuable space.
• Knob lighting and built-in tools improve the overall user experience.

Areas for Improvement

While this grill does a stellar job overall, there are a few less favorable aspects worth noting:

• The assembly process could be slightly more straightforward. Some sections required more effort than I anticipated.
• Knob lights, though helpful, might be a bit dim in brightly lit outdoor settings.
• No included batteries for the electronic ignition system; you’ll need to grab those separately.

These are minor issues in the grand scheme but worth considering.

Competing Products

In the world of compact propane grills, there are plenty of options to compare. Weber Spirit II E-210 comes to mind as a strong competitor, offering a similar two-burner configuration and durable construction. However, the Mesa220 has the edge with its Clearview Lid and foldable shelves, which add a level of practicality Weber doesn’t quite match.

Another rival could be the Char-Broil Performance Series, known for its affordability. While it’s a solid choice for those on a budget, it lacks the premium features like the knob lighting and high-density glass viewing window, which make the Mesa220 stand out. If you value innovative design and convenience, the Mesa220 truly outshines its peers.

Value Proposition

For what it offers, this grill delivers exceptional quality for the price. It’s not just a cooking tool; it’s an investment in better backyard gatherings. The durable stainless steel burners and brushed finish ensure it will hold up to both frequent use and the elements. Plus, the multi-year warranty—including an impressive 8-year coverage on the burners—adds significant peace of mind.

While some might find the upfront cost slightly higher than basic models, the added features and build quality make it worth every penny. Investing in this grill means fewer replacements and better cooking experiences in the long run.

This Monument Grills Mesa220 is a reliable, feature-packed choice for anyone who loves outdoor cooking.

Additional information