This post is sponsored by Weber Grills, but (as always!) all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Lake Shore Lady possible!
We are FULL of big news this month. I mean, first we get a puppy and then we get a GRILL? Look at us becoming real adults!
To be honest, we’ve been wanting to get a grill ever since we moved into our apartment. But what kind? What size? How can we arrange everything on our deck so everything fits and nothing is too close to each other/the house? How much money do we want to spend? You know, all of the big questions.
So a few weeks ago, we were inspired by the nice weather and decided it was time. We measured our deck, did some research online, and then headed out to Home Depot to check them out in person. I am happy to report that it was a MAJOR success!
What we considered before buying a grill
Quality
When it comes to fire, it’s all about safety first, so investing in a quality grill was #1 on our list. We wanted to make sure we felt good about the company that produces it, as well as the individual grill itself.
Weber Grills has been a grilling staple since 1952, largely in part to their rigorous quality control measures. The grills are tested in two factories (just outside of Chicago!), including exposure to all kinds of weather conditions. In addition, every grill is inspected and lit before it leaves their factory to ensure it’s good to go. I am ALL about that. They also have created an original cooking system, which is why their grills perform so well, and last so long!
Durability
Of course, the durability of a grill has a LOT to do with if you clean it and cover it properly. But it helps that Weber Grills is made out of quality parts, plus they have really long warrantees (ours is 10 years!) and amazing customer service.
Size
We live in the city, so space is definitely limited. Getting a huge grill was out of the question for A LOT of reasons. We really had to look at our deck and get creative with how to fit both a grill and our table, while also keeping the grill at least 5 feet from the house. Measure a few different spaces that could work before you start your research – that will help a lot!
Gas over Charcoal
We aren’t allowed to get a charcoal grill, so a gas grill was our only option. That being said, we still would have wanted a gas grill even if we had the choice. Why? Because simply put, gas grills provide more control and convenience.
They are easy to start, they heat up quickly, and you have control over the temperature. It’s also easier to clean, especially when you get a Weber Grill, thanks to a small grease drip tray that slides out with disposable foil liners. And because safety is so important, we love that it’s built so sparks escaping is very unlikely.
Price
Since we obviously had a lot of requirements, we weren’t going to skimp on price here. That being said, we also knew we didn’t need anything obscenely expensive. The Spirt II retails for $349, which felt like a quality investment, without totally breaking the bank.
Why We Chose Weber Grill Spirit 11
In addition to filling all of our requirements above, the Spirit II by Weber Grills had a lot of other features we really liked, like the GS4 Grilling System.
What is the GS4 Grilling System?
First, it has Infinity Ignition which ensures an easy ignition every single time. They recently upgraded the coating on the wires to improve heat resistance, a protected ignition module with batteries you can easily replace, and more.
This grill also has high performance burners that are stronger and more resistant so they won’t wear down over time. Weber learned that their tapered design also helps keep the pressure and temperature consistent across the burner and cooking surface, so everything cooks evenly.
But wait, there’s more! Weber Grill’s signature Flavorizer bars were a huge selling point for us. They help add more flavor into your food by catching the drippings and vaporizing them, which then recirculates back into the food. How cool is that?! And if that’s not enough, this also helps direct grease away from the burners which cuts down on flare ups.
And speaking of safety, Weber GS4 has a Grease Management System which provides an easily accessible grease tray. The system funnels the grease directly into that tray, so it flows away from anywhere it shouldn’t be – and makes it easier for you to clean after grilling!
We also really liked that it came in multiple colors, and it has iGrill 3 compatibility. Even though the iGrill 3 isn’t totally necessary, it is nice to have that option. Basically, it is an app-connected thermometer that can monitor up to 4 cuts of meat. It even notifies your smart device once each piece has reached the right temperature for serving! We’re living in the future, guys.
Weber Grill Spirit 11, it is!
We ended up getting the white cover because it really brightens up our deck. I think it looks really cute with our blue umbrella, too!
I can’t wait to start cooking on this grill all Summer long! I’m pretty sure I’ll find a lot of great inspiration in this Weber’s Greatest Hits Cookbook, too. Stay tuned!
Do you have a grill?
If you do, which one do you have? And if you don’t, are you thinking about getting one? I’d love to know!
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PS. Have you read about our new puppy, Luna?!
Awesome grill! Man, is Adam super excited and that last photo you two, so cute!