Kicking things off with a quick backstory on Royal Gourmet, a brand that’s made a name for itself in the BBQ world with its lineup of affordable yet high-quality grilling gear. These folks have carved a niche by ensuring their products fit snugly between professional-level grilling and backyard weekend warrior territory.
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker stands out with a killer combo—grilling and smoking in one neat package. This isn’t just a gimmick. It appeals to those who love to control their cooking style and flavor with classic charcoal smoking vibes. It’s about versatility in use without breaking the bank.
Who’s really gonna dig this grill? Think outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hosting friends and family for weekend cookouts. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the hands-on approach to cooking, getting involved with each step from seasoning the food to adjusting the vents. Plus, with its manageable size, it’s well-suited for folks with moderate backyard space, from suburban homes to more urban settings.
This introduction is your go-to if you’re eyeing a new piece of gear that promises more than just basic grilling. Whether you’re a seasoned griller experimenting with smoking for the first time or a newbie looking to impress with a flawless brisket, this grill might just be your next best friend in BBQ land.
Design and Build Quality
When you’re scouting for a grill, the first look could make or break your interest. The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker doesn’t just look the part, it plays it well too. With a well-balanced structure and sleek black finish, this grill is all about combining style with functionality. It’s got that classic, robust look that promises durability.
Speaking of durability, this grill’s no slouch. Constructed using a rugged steel build, it’s designed to withstand the outdoor elements. The materials used here are aimed at long-term use, resisting rust and wear, which is a huge plus if you’re planning to use it regularly. You’ll appreciate how the components fit together firmly, reducing any wobbly parts that could interfere with stability.
Now, let’s chat about setting this bad boy up. Assembly can sometimes feel like a puzzle with grills, but user insights often highlight the relatively straightforward process this model offers. With some patience and perhaps another set of hands, you’ll have it up and running in a couple of hours. Follow the manual, and it shouldn’t feel like a chore.
Size matters when we’re discussing storage and portability. For its functionality, it doesn’t hog yard space, which is crucial when you’re balancing grill size with your available outdoor space. Its compact design ensures it doesn’t overwhelm your patio, while still offering enough space for a substantial cookout. Plus, moving it around isn’t backbreaking work, thanks to sturdy wheels and lightweight construction.
In essence, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker brings together the elements of aesthetic appeal and solid build in a way that’s attainable for most backyard grillers. If you’re after a blend of style and practicality, keeping these design points in mind could steer you to making a more informed decision.
Key Features and Specifications
This grill isn’t just about looks; it’s got some serious chops in terms of functionality. The dual functionality of grilling and smoking is a huge draw. Whether you’re grilling up some burgers or slowly smoking a brisket, this grill’s versatile enough to handle it all without a hitch.
Talking space now, there’s ample room for your cooking marathon. The grill comes equipped with multiple grates and racks, allowing you to cook different items simultaneously. This feature is a blessing when you’re hosting and don’t want your guests waiting forever for their food. Look out for the specifics if you need to know exactly how many burgers you can flip at once.
Heat control is where this grill shines. It comes with adjustable ventilation and dampers, giving you the power to manage the heat to perfection. Combined with an easy-to-read temperature gauge, you’re in control of cooking temps, whether you need that high-heat sear or a low-and-slow smoke.
We’ve all got our must-haves in grill extras. The Royal Gourmet doesn’t skimp on those. It includes handy features like an ash pan, which makes cleanup less of a drag, and side tables for your prep and tools. These little additions can turn a grilling session from good to ‘I can’t wait to do this again!’
In tying all this together, these specifications make the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker a practical choice for both casual barbecuers and those looking to make a culinary statement at their next cookout. It’s about having the right tools to elevate your outdoor cooking game.
Performance: User Experience and Feedback
Performance is where the real story unfolds for any grill, and the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker lives up to its reputation. Folks who’ve given it a whirl often rave about the flavor balance it brings to the table. Those charcoal-smoked notes elevate the taste, ensuring the food doesn’t just look good but has the depth of flavor you’d expect from a quality grill.
Heat distribution is always a sticking point with grills, but here, things tend to run smooth. Users find that it manages to maintain consistent heat across the cooking surface, reducing the likelihood of those dreaded hot spots that can ruin a perfectly planned meal. Consistency here means your meats cook evenly and give off that mouth-watering aroma.
Nobody really loves clean-up time, but the Royal Gourmet doesn’t complicate things further. This grill’s design simplifies post-cooking chores. With features like removable ash pans, keeping things tidy doesn’t steal too much of your Sunday afternoon.
To really put this grill’s capabilities to the test, I checked out some user testimonials and real-life case studies. Feedback usually highlights its user-friendliness and reliable performance. Enthusiasts who spend a lot of time grilling have found the craftsmanship holds up, even after countless sessions.
When you look at performance from a practical standpoint, it’s clear this grill offers a user experience that combines solid function with the nuances of traditional charcoal grilling. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or trying it for the first time, you’ll appreciate how it blends ease of use with that authentic barbecue charm.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
To ensure you get the most out of your Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker, consider these tips:
Use High-Quality Charcoal & Wood Chips – Lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, while wood chips add extra smoke flavor. Hickory, applewood, and mesquite are great choices depending on your preferred taste.
Seal the Smoker Box – Use high-temp gasket tape to improve heat retention and minimize smoke leaks.
Preheat Before Cooking – Allow the grill to heat up for at least 15 minutes before adding food to ensure even cooking.
Use a Water Pan for Smoking – Placing a pan of water in the smoker box helps maintain moisture levels and stabilizes temperature.
Monitor the Temperature Closely – Investing in a digital meat thermometer can help ensure your food reaches the perfect doneness.
Clean After Each Use – Regularly empty the ash pan and wipe down the grates to extend the life of your grill.
Value for Money: Is it Worth the Investment?
Value is all about getting more than what you pay for, and the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker has a knack for offering just that. Balancing functionality and cost, it shows up strong in comparison with other models on the market, bringing features that rival those of higher-priced counterparts.
In terms of budget, this grill situates itself well within reach for many. It doesn’t break the bank yet delivers enough heft in its offerings to make the spend worthwhile. The combination of grilling and smoking capabilities alone provides a leap in value, setting it apart from basic models that stick to one cooking style.
When thinking long-term, it’s about durability and customer satisfaction over time. This grill seems to know the durability game well, built with longevity in mind, which reassures buyers they’re investing in a product that will stand the culinary test of time.
Ultimately, whether you’re new to outdoor cooking or a seasoned pro, this grill covers a wide range of needs without hefty upfront costs. It’s an investment that pays off with each flavorful meal produced. Check it out if you’re weighing options and want a grill that delivers consistently without a high maintenance requirement.
If you love the rich, smoky flavor of charcoal-grilled meats but don’t want to break the bank on a high-end smoker, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker might be your perfect match. Combining the functionality of a grill and an offset smoker, this unit provides versatility, solid performance, and plenty of cooking space to handle family cookouts or neighborhood BBQs. Let’s dive into what makes this grill a standout option.
Key Features
Spacious Cooking Area
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker offers 811 square inches of total cooking space.
443 sq. inches of porcelain-coated grates for primary grilling.
184 sq. inches warming rack to keep food at the right temperature.
184 sq. inches in the offset smoker box for slow smoking meats to perfection.
Heavy-Duty Construction
Built with durable steel, this grill holds up well under regular use.
The porcelain-enameled cooking grates distribute heat evenly and resist rust.
The black powder-coated finish offers a sleek look and added durability.
Adjustable Charcoal Pan
The two-level adjustable charcoal pan allows for precise heat control.
Holds up to 4.4 lbs of charcoal, providing plenty of fuel for long cooking sessions.
Offset Smoker for True BBQ Flavor
The side firebox lets you smoke meats low and slow without direct heat.
Adjustable air vents help regulate airflow and maintain a steady temperature.
Temperature Control & Monitoring
A built-in lid-mounted thermometer ensures accurate temperature readings.
The adjustable chimney damper helps control airflow for better heat management.
Convenience Features
Front and side shelves provide extra prep space.
Bottom storage rack for holding charcoal bags, utensils, or grilling accessories.
Cool-touch handles prevent burns when opening the lid.
Removable ash pan makes cleanup quick and easy.
Performance & Cooking Experience
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker delivers impressive results, especially for its price point. The adjustable charcoal pan allows for easy heat adjustments, making it ideal for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow smoking.
Grilling: The porcelain-coated grates retain heat well, giving steaks, burgers, and chicken a nice sear while keeping the interior juicy.
Smoking: The offset smoker box works well for infusing meats with that rich, smoky flavor. It’s not as airtight as higher-end models, but with proper adjustments to the vents, you can maintain a consistent smoking temperature.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔ Affordable price for a combo grill and smoker
✔ Large cooking area suitable for family gatherings
✔ Adjustable charcoal pan for better heat control✔ Removable ash pan for easy cleanup
✔ Solid construction with a sleek, durable finish
Cons:
❌ Assembly can be time-consuming
❌ The smoker box may leak some smoke (sealing with high-temp gasket tape helps)
❌ Thinner metal construction than premium models, leading to potential heat loss
Is It Worth Buying?
If you’re looking for a versatile, budget-friendly charcoal grill and smoker combo, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker is a fantastic option. It’s perfect for beginners and casual backyard BBQ enthusiasts who want a solid-performing grill without spending a fortune. While it may not be competition-grade, it delivers excellent results for weekend grilling and smoking sessions.
If you’re ready to up your grilling game without spending a fortune, this grill is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re cooking up burgers for a summer cookout or slow-smoking a rack of ribs for a weekend feast, the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker is up to the task.
This grill seems like a solid choice for backyard BBQ lovers, offering versatility with both grilling and smoking functions at a great price. I’m curious, though—how does it compare to other budget-friendly grills in terms of heat retention and overall cooking consistency? Also, what’s the ease of maintaining this grill over time, especially when it comes to keeping it clean and in good shape for long-term use?
Zachary,
This grill is very easy to maintain. One technique you can use is as soon as you are done grilling use a scrapper on it right away. This helps keep food residue off your grill. It makes it easier when you are ready to do a deep clean. You will be able to maintain your heat with no problem as you would with any other grill in this class.
Jerry
I am looking for a nice barbecue and this review does a great job at breaking down the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker’s key features. I really like the sounds of its adjustable charcoal pan and dual-side air vents. Better temperature control is always a good thing. The spacious cooking area also seems like a big plus when hosting cookouts or smoking large cuts of meat. How does it handle long smoking sessions? Does it maintain steady heat without constant adjustments, or does it require frequent tending?
Marlinda,
I have found this grill to be an exceptional product. The biggest adjustment I have found is keeping charcoal or lump charcoal placed in the hopper. It usually requires adding more every hour. The amount of room you have to grill with is enormous with the ability to use the warming rack as well. You can smoke a brisket or pork shoulder with no problems. You can even do ribs without any difficulty.
Jerry
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker seems like a fantastic option for those who love the authentic smoky flavor of charcoal-grilled meats without breaking the bank. This review does a great job highlighting its dual functionality, making it perfect for both casual backyard BBQ enthusiasts and those looking to experiment with smoking meats. The spacious cooking area, adjustable charcoal pan, and offset smoker add to its versatility, while convenience features like the removable ash pan and side shelves enhance the user experience.
That said, it’s important to note that the smoker box may need sealing for optimal performance, and the assembly process can be a bit time-consuming. However, for its price point, the trade-offs seem minimal compared to the value it offers. If you’re in the market for an affordable yet functional grill-smoker combo, this could be a great pick. Thanks for the detailed breakdown—it’s a solid resource for anyone considering this model!
andrejs,
The amount of room you have with this grill is insane. You have plenty of room to grill a variety of products at one time. For example, if one person wanted grilled chicken while another wanted grilled fish, you can do both. You will need to cook the chicken most of the way before grilling the fish but the option is there.
If you want to experiment with smoking meats, no problem, choose your meat, marinate it before putting it on to smoke, get your grill to temperature, and begin smoking. You will find the meat smokes perfectly and you don’t break the bank.
Jerry
This is a fantastic, thorough review of the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker! I especially appreciate the detailed breakdown of features and the practical tips for getting the best results. The dual functionality and spacious cooking area are definitely appealing.
I’m curious, for those new to charcoal grilling and smoking, how steep is the learning curve with this model? And, given the potential for smoke leaks in the smoker box, are there any specific long-term maintenance tips you’d recommend prolonging its lifespan?
Great job on the review!
Phil
Phillip,
For the smoker box, you can take care of any leaks by applying a fire-resistant gasket to eliminate the leaks. For long-term maintenance, I recommend cleaning your grill after each use. Also, if you use your grill frequently, schedule a deep clean to rid your grill of excess grease and creosote. This will allow you to maintain good flavors each time you grill.
Jerry
This review of the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker provides a detailed look at its features, pros, and cons. I appreciate the insight into its cooking space and airflow control, as these are crucial for achieving great barbecue results. The mention of durability and ease of cleaning is also helpful for potential buyers. I’m curious—how does this model compare to similar grills in terms of heat retention? Also, have you tested it with different types of charcoal to see how it affects performance? Thanks for sharing this thorough review! Debra
Debra,
I have compared different types of charcoal with this grill and found lump charcoal to be the best. There are several reasons for this, mainly it takes less charcoal to achieve the desired temperature. With the amount of space available for grilling and smoking, you should be able to prepare the meals of your choice.
Jerry
When choosing a charcoal grill and smoker combo, it’s essential to compare it with similar models from other reputable brands. Here, we’ll pit the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker against popular competitors like Weber, Dyna-Glo, and Char-Griller, breaking down their differences in price, durability, performance, and features to determine which offers the best value.
felicia,
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill is a great value grill for those who are new to grilling or who love the taste of food grilled for that great smoke flavor. While other grills may boast of new and improved features oftentimes the best is still the simplest.
Jerry
This review does a great job of breaking down the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill and Smoker’s features and performance, but I have a few questions. How does it compare to similarly priced competitors in terms of heat retention and durability? Also, for those new to smoking, does it come with any guidance on best practices for temperature control? It would be great to know if the assembly process includes clear instructions or if additional tools are needed. Looking forward to more insights!
Herman,
The Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill holds its own against the competition. You will find with the assembly book some instructions on how to manage the different heat levels needed for different types of grilling. There is a list of tools provided for the assembly of this grill. You probably have them on hand. It is simple to assemble this grill.
Jerry
The overall versatility of this grill seems great. The breakdown of dimensions tells a great deal of how well it can perform for a family or even small gathering. While the pros and cons appear very reliable, I am curious about the pros and cons compared with similar models of other smoker/grill combos on the market. Many brands have high and low tier models, so I understand that this brand’s premium models will have less cons.
Christopher,
The high-end version of this grill may have fewer upfront “cons” than this model but over time this model holds up to the high end models as well as the competition’s models. Once, you adapt to this model you find it to not only be comparable to other models but is also very reliable.
Jerry
This was such a well-thought-out and detailed review! I really appreciate how you covered not just the features but also the real-life experience of using this grill. It’s helpful to know both the strengths and the small tweaks that can make it even better, like sealing the smoker box for better heat retention.
Have you personally used this grill, or is this based on research and user feedback? I’d love to hear about your own experience if you’ve cooked on it! Also, how do you think it compares to other budget-friendly smoker-grill combos?
I have to ask—what’s your favorite thing to grill or smoke? Do you stick with the classics like burgers and ribs, or do you like to experiment with different flavors? Thanks again for sharing this review—it’s really helpful for someone like me who’s considering a new grill!
Alice,
I have indeed used this grill and found it to be very reliable. When my family first purchased this grill for me, we did not have the heat-resistant tape to seal the leaks. We did manage to find something to seal the smoke leaks and increase the smoke flavor we desired.
I love to smoke brisket, pork shoulder, vegetables, chicken, and lamb. For each of these items, I developed my own rubs since I need a low-sodium diet. We experiment with different flavors and textures for our food.
Jerry
Hello Jerry,
I am impressed with this grill/smoker! I checked it out on Amazon, and they want $190 for it, which I feel is a pretty good price. But I have several questions. How well does the Royal Gourmet Charcoal Grill distribute heat across the cooking surface? Add to that, how easy is it to maintain a constant heat? I am looking for a smoker and I can’t wait to smoke and slow cook some baby back ribs (my mouth waters just typing this).
is it a real problem with smoke escaping the grill. I mean you have to expect to lose some smoke. I guess I am asking does it smoke enough to give your meat the flavorful hickory taste. Can you smoke other things in it, such as baked beans.
That is about it. I can see me in the backyard smoking my ribs, can’t wait!
Thanks,
Mark
Mark,
This grill does have a great price. To smoke baby-back ribs the best thing to do is set up two-zone heating. This means one part of the grill will have the heat whereas the other part is called the cool zone. If you are doing the heating from the firebox then you will have consistent heat the entire time you are smoking your ribs. You can also do those baked beans you desire and if you so choose you can also smoke a brisket. As far as the smoke escaping, there are fire resistant gaskets available to seal those leaks.
Jerry