Evaluate the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN Charcoal Grill: Is It Worth the Price?

Description

Grilling Performance

Using the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN 30-Inch Charcoal Grill on a breezy Saturday afternoon felt like stepping into the shoes of a seasoned pitmaster. The generous 719 square inches of total cooking space is a dream for anyone who loves hosting backyard barbeques. I managed to fit a full rack of ribs, several chicken wings, and a few corn cobs all at once with room to spare. The porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates distributed heat evenly, preventing those dreaded hot spots. However, I noticed that maintaining a consistent temperature required a bit of attention, as the thin steel construction allowed some heat to escape. While it didn’t significantly impact my grilling session, it’s something to be mindful of, especially for low-and-slow cooking enthusiasts.

Ease of Use

What stood out immediately was how user-friendly this grill is. The height-adjustable charcoal pan, which operates via a crank handle, made it simple to control the intensity of the heat. I loved being able to sear steaks at high heat and then lower the pan to finish them off gently. The front charcoal access door was a lifesaver, especially when I had to add more charcoal mid-cook. I didn’t have to lift the lid and disrupt the cooking process, a feature that’s both convenient and thoughtful. However, assembling the grill was another story. It took me a couple of hours, and I wish the parts had been labeled more clearly. My neighbor, who’s more mechanically inclined, had to step in when I got stuck assembling the legs.

Cleaning

Cleaning up after a feast should be easy, right? Well, here’s where the grill could use some improvement. The ash collection system isn’t as efficient as I’d hoped. While the front access door made it simpler to scoop out ashes, I still had to deal with some stray bits that stubbornly stuck to the edges. A removable ash pan would’ve been a game-changer here. On the bright side, the cooking grates cleaned up fairly quickly with a standard grill brush, and they didn’t require much elbow grease.

Features

This grill boasts some truly handy features. The collapsible side tables came in clutch for prepping burgers and holding condiments. I appreciated the integrated “S” hooks for hanging tongs and spatulas, which kept my workspace uncluttered. The lid-mounted stack and side dampers allowed a decent amount of temperature control, though I wish the lid had a better seal to prevent heat from escaping. The large bottom shelf beneath the grill provided ample storage for charcoal and grilling tools, saving me multiple trips to the garage. It’s clear that the design team thought about convenience, even if a few tweaks could elevate the overall experience.

Durability

After using this grill for a few weeks, I noticed some minor warping on the charcoal pan due to the thin steel material. While it hasn’t affected performance yet, it’s something that might become a concern over time. The grill itself feels lightweight, which is great for portability but less reassuring for long-term durability. My previous grill from a competing brand felt sturdier, though it was significantly heavier. If you’re gentle with this grill and store it properly, it should hold up reasonably well.

Portability & Storage

At 73.2 pounds, the grill is heavy enough to feel substantial but light enough to be moved around with some effort. The wheels made relocating it across the patio manageable, though they struggled a bit on uneven surfaces like my lawn. The collapsible side tables helped reduce its footprint when not in use, which is a bonus if space is a premium on your patio or in your garage. I found it easy to tuck away when the weather turned sour.

Warranty

One aspect that gives peace of mind is the warranty provided by Royal Gourmet. While I haven’t had any issues that required me to test their customer service, knowing that the product comes with some coverage is reassuring. A friend of mine had a minor issue with a similar model and reported that the company was responsive and helpful, which bodes well for anyone who might run into trouble.

Grilling Competitors

When comparing this grill to others in its class, such as Weber’s premium charcoal grills, it becomes evident that the Royal Gourmet CD2030AN offers fantastic value for its size and features. However, Weber models tend to excel in durability and heat retention, thanks to their heavier construction and better lid seals. On the flip side, Weber grills usually come with a heftier price tag, making the Royal Gourmet an appealing option for those who want a large cooking area without breaking the bank. Another contender is the Char-Broil Performance series, which offers similar features but lacks the expansive cooking surface of this model. Each has its strengths, but if you’re hosting larger gatherings, the Royal Gourmet might just edge out the competition.

Key Benefits

• The massive 719 square inches of cooking space is perfect for big gatherings.
• Height-adjustable charcoal pan offers excellent heat control.
• Front charcoal access door prevents heat loss during refueling.
• Collapsible side tables and integrated hooks enhance convenience.

Flaws

• Assembly can be tricky and time-consuming.
• Thin steel construction may lead to durability concerns over time.
• Ash collection system could be more efficient.

Worth Every Penny

In terms of price-to-performance ratio, this grill is hard to beat. While it’s not without its quirks, the features and cooking capacity make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize space and versatility. Similar grills with comparable cooking areas often cost significantly more, and this model strikes a good balance between affordability and functionality. If you’re willing to put up with some assembly challenges and occasional maintenance, it’s a fantastic choice for backyard chefs looking to step up their grilling game.

Additional information