Uncover Why the Monument Grills 4-Burner Gas Grill Stands Out: Detailed Review

Description

Features

The Monument Grills Mesa400MF 4-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill boasts an impressive array of features that cater to outdoor cooking enthusiasts. From the moment I unboxed it, the brushed stainless steel design stood out—not only does it look sleek, but it feels robust too. The Clearview® lid is a game-changer, allowing me to monitor my food without opening the grill and losing precious heat. Another standout feature is the foldable side shelf, which makes storage a breeze, especially in smaller outdoor spaces like my patio.

Equipped with 304 stainless steel burners, the grill delivers up to 36,000 BTU of heat. Each burner has its own control knob, which means precise flame adjustment is at your fingertips. The cooking grates are porcelain-enameled cast iron. Not only do they distribute heat evenly, but they also clean up easily—an essential for someone like me who dislikes scrubbing post-barbecue.

Grilling Performance

What truly impressed me was how evenly this grill cooked. I tested it with burgers, chicken, and even some veggies, and everything came out perfectly cooked—no undercooked centers or charred edges. The 570 square inches of cooking space (405 square inches for grilling and 165 square inches for the warming rack) give ample room to cook for a crowd. I managed to fit 20 burgers at once during a recent family gathering, and the grill handled it like a champ.

The heat retention is excellent, thanks to the durable enamel firebox. I noticed the food cooked faster compared to my old grill, which often struggled with uneven heat spots. This grill is also ideal for indirect cooking; I turned off the middle burners and placed the food in the center, allowing for a slow and even roast.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Mesa400MF wasn’t as daunting as I expected. The assembly instructions were straightforward, and everything aligned perfectly during setup. Once assembled, using the grill is incredibly intuitive. The electronic ignition system ensures quick and safe startups every time—no more fiddling with matches or lighters.

I also appreciated the built-in thermometer, which is conveniently placed on the Clearview® lid. It provides accurate readings, letting me maintain precise temperatures for different recipes. The hooks for grilling tools and the propane tank bracket are thoughtful additions that keep the workspace organized.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after a barbecue is usually my least favorite part, but this grill makes it surprisingly manageable. The removable grease tray efficiently collects drippings, and it slides out easily for disposal. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are resistant to chipping, and a quick scrub with a grill brush was all it took to restore their shine. Even the enameled firebox wiped down with minimal effort.

Durability

After a few months of regular use, I can confidently say this grill is built to last. The stainless steel components don’t just look great—they’re rust-resistant and durable. The enamel-coated firebox enhances heat retention while adding to the grill’s overall longevity. While some reviewers mentioned minor shipping damage, mine arrived in pristine condition. That said, the customer service from Monument Grills seems top-notch, offering replacements for any damaged parts.

Temperature Control

One of the grill’s strongest points is its temperature control. Each burner operates independently, giving me precise command over the cooking zones. Whether I wanted a full blast for searing steaks or a lower heat for slow-cooking ribs, the grill delivered. The thermometer on the lid provided real-time updates, which helped me adjust the flames as needed.

Portability & Storage

Despite its robust build, the Mesa400MF is surprisingly easy to move around. The foldable side shelf is a practical feature, perfect for those with limited storage space in their backyard or garage. I occasionally wheel it to different spots in my garden, and the sturdy handle makes this process seamless.

Warranty

The warranty offered by Monument Grills is a reassuring aspect of this purchase. With an 8-year limited warranty on the stainless steel burners and a 2-year warranty on the rest of the grill, I feel confident about its long-term reliability. It’s clear the company stands behind its product, and that peace of mind is invaluable.

Positives

Strong Points

• The Clearview® lid allows monitoring without losing heat.
• Even heat distribution across all burners.
• Durable stainless steel construction.
• Easy-to-clean grease tray and cooking grates.

Negatives

Areas for Improvement

• The stainless steel may not feel as heavy-duty as premium brands like Weber.
• Some parts might arrive with minor imperfections due to shipping.

Competing Products

Comparing the Monument Grills Mesa400MF to its competitors, it holds its ground well. For instance, Weber grills are renowned for their durability and performance, but they come at nearly double the price. While Weber’s metal gauge might be thicker, the Monument grill’s Clearview® lid is a unique feature that even pricier models lack. The extra cooking space on the Monument is also a notable advantage over similarly priced models like the Char-Broil Performance series.

However, the Char-Broil does have a slight edge in portability due to its lighter weight. If you’re someone who needs to move the grill frequently, that could be a consideration. Still, the Mesa400MF offers better cooking performance and features overall.

Money’s Worth

This grill strikes an excellent balance between price and features. While it doesn’t come cheap, it’s far more affordable than premium brands with similar specs. The quality of the materials, the performance, and the thoughtful design make it worth every penny. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, feature-packed grill without breaking the bank.

Additional information