Explore the Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill Review: Is It Worth Your Investment?

Description

Features

The portable gas grill from Weber, model 1141001, brings a unique blend of compact design and functionality. As someone who loves grilling on the go, I found the portability particularly impressive. The porcelain-enameled lid and cooking grates are standout features, designed to ensure durability while preventing rust or peeling. The cooking surface covers 160 square inches, which might sound small, but it’s surprisingly sufficient for a few burgers and hotdogs at a time. Additionally, the glass-reinforced nylon handles stay cool during use, offering safety and convenience.

I tested the grill with both high-temperature searing and low-temperature cooking, and it maintained consistent heat. The inclusion of plated steel legs that pivot to lock the lid in place makes it an excellent choice for portability. Packing it up after a beach day or camping trip was a breeze. The grill’s compact shape, almost like a toolbox, makes it easy to stow in a car trunk or RV storage.

Grilling Performance

I grilled steaks, chicken, and vegetables on this grill, and each turned out perfectly cooked. The heat distribution across the porcelain-enameled cooking grates is even, eliminating cold spots. The Weber Go-Anywhere gas grill doesn’t just heat up quickly; it also maintains temperature well, which is a huge plus for any outdoor chef.

Even in windy conditions, the grill performed admirably, though I did notice a slight dip in flame strength in particularly gusty weather. This wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to be mindful of if you plan to use it in exposed outdoor locations regularly.

Ease of Use

Setting up this grill was incredibly simple. Everything snapped together intuitively, and I had it ready to go in about 10 minutes. Lighting it up is straightforward, thanks to the piezoelectric igniter. There’s no need for matches or lighters, which I find especially convenient when grilling on the go. The adjustable heat control allowed me to switch between high-heat searing and low, slow cooking with ease.

I personally appreciated how user-friendly it was, even for someone who considers themselves a “grill novice.” My brother, who’s far less patient with setups, gave it a try and was equally impressed. The simplicity of its operation makes it a great entry-level grill for beginners.

Positives

Key Benefits

• Compact and portable design ideal for travel, camping, and tailgating.
• Durable porcelain-enameled cooking grates resist rust and peeling.
• Even heat distribution across the 160-square-inch cooking surface.
• Lightweight at just 13.5 pounds, making it easy to carry.
• Efficient fuel consumption with the bottled liquid propane system.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill wasn’t as quick as I hoped. The porcelain grates are easy to wipe down, but cleaning around the edges and the burner required more effort. I had to remove the regulator and burner to give it a thorough cleaning, which might deter those who prefer low-maintenance grills. However, for someone like me, who values functionality over convenience, this was a minor inconvenience.

Using aluminum foil to catch drippings helped reduce the post-grill cleanup effort. It’s a good tip for anyone who plans to use this regularly.

Temperature Control

The updated gas regulator on this model offers better control over flame intensity compared to older versions. Adjusting it felt smooth, and I had no issues finding the right temperature for different cooking styles. Whether I was searing steaks or slow-cooking chicken, the Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill consistently delivered the heat I needed.

I do wish it had a built-in thermometer on the lid, as I found myself guessing the internal temperature at times. Adding one as an aftermarket accessory greatly improved my grilling experience.

Portability & Storage

As someone who often grills on road trips, portability is non-negotiable. This grill nails it. The compact design, coupled with the locking lid mechanism, makes it easy to carry without worrying about spills or parts falling off. It fits snugly in my car trunk alongside other camping gear. I even managed to pack it with a few flat-sided items, maximizing my storage space.

After a long day at the beach, folding the legs and locking the lid took less than a minute. It’s the kind of convenience that makes you want to take it everywhere.

Durability

During my tests, the grill withstood a variety of conditions, from rocky campgrounds to sandy beaches. The premium-grade steel construction with baked-on porcelain enamel ensures it doesn’t just look good but also lasts long. Even after repeated use, there were no visible signs of wear or rust.

My cousin accidentally knocked it over while we were camping, and other than a brief heart-stopping moment, the grill survived without so much as a dent. It’s safe to say it’s built to endure outdoor adventures.

Warranty

The 10-year limited warranty provided by Weber is a testament to the confidence they have in their product. It’s reassuring to know that if anything goes wrong, there’s a safety net. However, I haven’t had to use it yet, which speaks to the product’s reliability.

Drawbacks

Critiques

• Cleaning around the burner and edges can be tedious.
• Performance in high wind conditions is slightly inconsistent.
• Lacks a built-in thermometer, which is a standard feature in many modern grills.
• The flat porcelain grill plate doesn’t provide traditional grill marks.

Competitive Options

In comparison to similar portable grills like the Coleman RoadTrip 285 or the Char-Broil Grill2Go X200, the Weber Go-Anywhere Gas Grill holds its own. While the Coleman offers more cooking space and multiple burners, it’s bulkier and less portable. The Char-Broil, on the other hand, provides excellent heat retention but falls short in build quality over time.

What sets the Weber apart is its balance of durability, portability, and grilling performance. However, if you’re someone who prioritizes features like built-in thermometers or larger cooking surfaces, you might find the alternatives more appealing.

Worth Every Penny

For its compact design, high durability, and reliable performance, this grill delivers excellent value. It’s priced slightly higher than some of its competitors, but the quality justifies the investment. If portability and ease of use are your top priorities, it’s hard to find a better option.

Additional information