Should you buy the Royal Gourmet GD403 gas grill griddle combo? Review inside!

Description

Pros

• Dual Cooking Zones: The Royal Gourmet GD403 Grill and Griddle Combo offers separate grilling and griddle surfaces, making it versatile for cooking a variety of dishes, from pancakes to burgers.
• High Heat Output: With 48,000 BTUs across four stainless steel burners, the cooking power is impressive and easily adjustable.
• Portability: Folding legs and locking casters make it simple to transport for camping or tailgating adventures.
• Convenient Features: The addition of tool hooks, a paper towel holder, and wind deflectors adds significant practicality to the design.

Grilling Performance

The grilling side of this combo made quite an impression. I tested it during a backyard barbecue, cooking everything from thick steaks to delicate fish. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates distributed heat evenly, which prevented hotspots and ensured everything was cooked to perfection. I particularly appreciated the high heat capacity, which allowed excellent searing on meats. However, one thing I noticed was that the heat distribution on the griddle side was slightly less uniform compared to the grill, though it didn’t affect simple tasks like frying bacon or eggs.

Cleaning

Cleaning this unit was a mixed bag. While the ceramic-coated griddle surface made wiping off grease and residue a breeze, the grill grates required a bit more elbow grease. After a long day of cooking, I found myself wishing for removable grates that could be washed more easily. Grease management was another area that could use improvement, as the grease trap seemed to fill quickly during extended use. I had to empty it several times while preparing a large meal.

Ease of Use

Cooking with this grill felt intuitive, even for someone like my brother, who rarely grills. The push-and-turn ignition system was reliable, and the control knobs allowed precise adjustments for each burner. The built-in tool hooks and a paper towel holder were lifesavers, keeping everything within reach during a busy cookout. The folding legs simplified setup, and while assembly took me about an hour, the instructions were clear enough to follow.

Temperature Control

The ability to separately control all four burners was a standout feature. I loved the flexibility it gave me to cook at different temperatures simultaneously. For example, I could keep the griddle side on low heat for warming tortillas while cranking up the grill side for a quick sear on steaks. Yet, I did notice that the grill side sometimes took a little longer to reach the desired temperature compared to other models I’ve used. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting for those who want instant heat.

Durability

The Royal Gourmet GD403 is built with a sturdy alloy steel frame, and its powder-coated finish offers added protection against the elements. Having left it outside overnight without a cover, I was relieved to see no signs of rust or wear. The ceramic-coated griddle and porcelain-enameled grates also held up well to repeated use. However, the locking casters felt slightly flimsy, which made me hesitant about moving it around frequently.

Portability & Storage

This combo grill is marketed as portable, and I’d say it lives up to that claim. The foldable legs allowed me to fit it into my car trunk effortlessly. We took it along for a weekend camping trip, and setting it up at the campground was a breeze. The compact design also made it easy to store in my garage, though the lack of a built-in cover meant I had to buy a separate one to protect it.

Key Benefits

• Multi-Functionality: Grill and griddle combination enhances cooking versatility.
• Compact Design: Folding legs and lightweight frame make it easy to transport.
• Practical Add-Ons: Tool hooks, paper towel holder, and wind deflectors enhance convenience.

Areas for Improvement

• Grease Management: The grease trap could be larger to avoid frequent emptying.
• Heat Distribution: The griddle side’s heat could be more consistent across the surface.
• Caster Quality: Locking casters feel slightly flimsy and could be improved.

Product Comparisons

Compared to competitors like the Blackstone 4-Burner Flat Top Grill, this product comes close but doesn’t quite match the seamless heat distribution of the Blackstone. On the other hand, the Royal Gourmet combo’s dual functionality outshines the Blackstone’s single-purpose design. Another competitor, the Camp Chef Flat Top Grill, offers a better grease management system, though it’s bulkier and harder to transport. While the Royal Gourmet GD403 may not excel in every category, its balance of functionality, portability, and cooking power makes it a strong contender.

Price Performance

For the features it offers, this grill and griddle combo delivers solid value. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but it’s well-equipped for both casual and serious outdoor cooking. Considering its versatility and portability, it feels like a worthwhile investment for those who frequently host gatherings or enjoy camping. Just be prepared to invest in a few accessories, like a cover and possibly a better grease tray.

Additional information