Last year, I decided it was time to upgrade my BBQ setup. My old, hand-me-down gas BBQ had finally given up the ghost after years of service, succumbing to rust and a leaking regulator. I was looking for a larger, more versatile option that offered the convenience of gas and the flavour of charcoal. Additionally, I wanted a model that was easy to clean and had a good design.
After some research, I opted for the Grillstream 4 Burner Hybrid Gas & Charcoal BBQ from John Lewis. This choice not only provided the hybrid cooking capabilities I desired but also came with the assurance of John Lewis’s reliable warranty. Since then, it has been a fantastic addition to our outdoor space.
Initial Impressions
When I received the Grillstream 4 Burner BBQ from John Lewis, I was impressed with the speed of delivery and the careful packaging. I chose John Lewis for their reliable warranty, which provides peace of mind should anything go wrong.
The BBQ was relatively easy to assemble, but it’s essential to read the instructions thoroughly to avoid assembling it incorrectly. You’d be surprised how often this happens! Unpacking needs to be done carefully to ensure nothing is scratched or dropped, but once I confirmed all parts were present, the assembly took just over an hour. Testing it with my gas canister confirmed that everything worked perfectly. Note that the lights require a battery.
Design and Features
The overall design and build quality of the BBQ are excellent, especially at this price point. It feels robust and durable, and I expect it to last a long time. Several design features stand out, such as the cast iron grills. I use both the flat and ridged sides extensively, especially for cooking thin and fatty meats, and they’re also perfect for smash burgers.
This is actually setup the wrong way around – griddle goes on the right!
The hybrid gas and charcoal system is a fantastic feature. You can use one side with charcoal and the other with gas, or both simultaneously to get the heat up quickly. It’s incredibly versatile, though it’s worth noting that charcoal requires a good amount of time to heat up, so plan accordingly.
Performance
The BBQ performs exceptionally well in terms of heating up and maintaining temperature. Using charcoal can take some time to heat up, but boosting it with gas helps significantly. Keeping the lid down is key to maintaining a stable temperature.
I’ve noticed great cooking results using both gas and charcoal, and I particularly enjoy using both at the same time. The Grillstream technology effectively reduces flare-ups and enhances flavour by ensuring an even cook.
Cooking Experience
I’ve cooked a variety of foods on the Grillstream 4 Burner BBQ, including steaks, burgers, sausages, and marinated chicken. So far, the results have been excellent, and I’m looking forward to attempting some larger items.
While I haven’t used the side burner yet, I plan to incorporate it into an ‘outdoor kitchen’ setup. The main cooking space has been more than sufficient for my needs, even when cooking for larger gatherings.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Cleaning the BBQ after use is straightforward. The trays holding the charcoal are easy to remove, and disposing of the ash is simple. There is a fat canister on the side and an additional tray underneath to catch any oils, making maintenance hassle-free.
I use a BBQ cleaner with a wire brush and water squirter to clean the griddle pan, which helps ‘deglaze’ it effectively. [Insert affiliate link here]
I did encounter one issue when I forgot to lock the wheels on my deck, and the wind toppled the BBQ over. Fortunately, the only damage was a lost door spindle, which Grillstream support replaced the same day!
Overall Satisfaction
I am highly satisfied with my purchase and have been using the BBQ almost daily during this recent hot weather. The gas option is perfect for quick evening BBQs, while the charcoal adds that extra flavour at weekends. The reduction of flare-ups and thoughtful design ensure excellent cooking results every time.
Value for Money
Overall, I think the BBQ offers good value for money. It’s not the cheapest option available, but the quality of materials and design justify the price. The support I received was exemplary, and I certainly recommend this company. The versatile nature of the BBQ places it well above simple, cheap models and offers a more affordable alternative to top-end options like large ceramic or bigger gas BBQ smokers.
Recommendation
I would definitely recommend the Grillstream 4 Burner Hybrid Gas & Charcoal BBQ to others. If you plan to cook regularly and want the convenience of gas with the option for charcoal, this BBQ is an excellent choice. Its ease of use, effective design in reducing flare-ups, and versatile cooking options make it a standout product. I haven’t burnt a single thing with this BBQ, and that alone speaks volumes!
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