Uncover the Feasto Portable Charcoal Grill Review: Is It Worth It?

Description

Grilling Performance

The portable charcoal grill I tested delivered an impressive grilling experience. I threw on a mix of burgers, steaks, and chicken, and the results were consistent and flavorful. The cast iron grates retained heat beautifully, ensuring even cooking throughout. I especially loved the upper warming rack; it was perfect for toasting buns or keeping cooked items warm while finishing the rest of the meal. During one session, I managed to grill about 16 burgers at once, which was ideal for a family gathering. The adjustable charcoal tray was a game-changer, letting me control the heat level depending on the food I was working with. This flexibility turned out to be essential for achieving the perfect sear on steaks while slow-cooking chicken.

Temperature Control

This tabletop charcoal grill really surprised me with its thoughtful temperature management. The built-in thermometer, though basic, provided a decent reference for maintaining a consistent internal temperature. I also appreciated the adjustable dampers and chimney, which made controlling the airflow simple. By tweaking these, I could either crank up the heat for a quick sear or slow things down for indirect cooking. During a camping trip, I experimented with smoking ribs, and the control options allowed me to maintain a low and steady temperature over hours. However, I noticed the thermometer wasn’t always perfectly accurate, so I relied on some old-school instincts as backup.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after grilling is usually my least favorite part, but this grill made it surprisingly manageable. The ash pan underneath the charcoal tray was easy to remove and dump, which kept things tidy. I liked how the cast iron grates could be brushed down quickly, though they required a bit of seasoning afterward to maintain their quality. That said, one gripe I had was the lack of a grease catch pan. After cooking burgers, I found grease pooling in the ash tray, and some even managed to leak onto my table. I ended up improvising with a small disposable aluminum tray to catch drippings during subsequent uses.

Portability & Storage

Carrying this grill around was a breeze thanks to the silicone-wrapped handles that didn’t get hot and offered a solid grip. At 26 pounds, it isn’t the lightest portable grill out there, but it’s manageable for most people. I’ve brought it along for camping trips and tailgates, and its compact design fit nicely in my car trunk. However, I’d recommend using a durable bag or case for transport to avoid scratching the powder-coated finish. Storing it at home was equally convenient, as it didn’t take up much space in my garage.

Durability

The heavy-gauge powder-coated steel construction gave me confidence in the grill’s longevity. After several uses, including a couple of rainy outdoor sessions, the finish showed no signs of rust or peeling. The cast iron grates also lived up to their reputation for durability, though they do require regular maintenance to prevent corrosion. I did notice, however, that the charcoal tray felt slightly flimsy when removing it for cleaning. It wobbled a bit, which made me cautious while handling it, but it didn’t seem like it was at risk of breaking.

Features

This grill is packed with features for its size. I found the 354-square-inch cooking area spacious enough to handle meals for a small group. The two-tier design was incredibly functional, with the upper rack serving as a warming area or a space to defrost food. The silicone-wrapped handles on the lid and sides were a thoughtful touch, preventing burns and adding to the overall usability. The combination of the charcoal tray’s adjustable height and the dampers allowed for precise heat control, making it versatile for both grilling and smoking. These features made it feel like a much larger, more expensive grill packed into a portable size.

Warranty

While I didn’t have to use the warranty, knowing it was there provided some peace of mind. The manufacturer’s commitment to standing behind their product suggests a certain level of confidence in its quality. I suggest keeping all the paperwork handy just in case, as warranties can sometimes be a lifesaver if something unexpectedly goes wrong.

Ease of Use

Setting this grill up was straightforward, despite some complaints I read about the assembly process. Mine came together in less than an hour, with easy-to-follow instructions. The intuitive design made it simple to operate, even for someone who isn’t a seasoned grill master. My cousin, who’s new to outdoor cooking, managed to use it without a hitch. The grill’s compact frame and simple controls make it beginner-friendly, yet it has enough advanced features to satisfy more experienced users.

Highlights

• Durable powder-coated steel construction ensures longevity.
• Adjustable charcoal tray offers exceptional heat control.
• Compact and portable design, perfect for camping or tailgating.
• Cast iron grates provide even heat distribution for excellent grilling results.

Weaknesses

• Lack of a grease catch pan led to some messy cleanups.
• Charcoal tray felt a bit wobbly during removal.
• Built-in thermometer wasn’t always accurate.

Direct Competitors

When comparing this grill to others in its category, a couple of alternatives stand out. The Weber Smokey Joe is a popular option, offering a similar compact size and excellent durability. However, it lacks the adjustable charcoal tray and dual-tier design that make this grill so versatile. Another competitor, the Cuisinart CCG-190, boasts a lightweight design and affordability, but it can’t match the cooking surface area or heat control capabilities of this model. Where this grill really shines is in its combination of features—like the warming rack, silicone handles, and adjustable dampers—that make it more versatile than many of its rivals.

Quality for Price

Considering its feature set, this grill offers excellent quality for the price. It feels like a premium product without the associated cost, thanks to its durable materials and thoughtful design. While it has a few quirks, the overall value is undeniable, especially for those who need a portable grill with enough space and versatility to handle various cooking styles.

Additional information