Weber Genesis S-335 Natural Gas Grill Review 3 Burners Side Burner Stainless Grates Sear Zone

Are you tired of backyard barbecues that end in disappointment, with unevenly cooked meats and flare-ups ruining your steaks? What if one grill could transform your outdoor cooking from amateur hour to professional-level mastery, delivering restaurant-quality results every time? Enter the Weber Genesis S-335 Natural Gas Grill, a stainless steel powerhouse designed for serious grill enthusiasts who demand precision, power, and durability in their outdoor kitchen setup.

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Overview

The Weber Genesis S-335 Natural Gas Grill stands out as a premium option for anyone serious about outdoor cooking. This model features three main burners plus a dedicated side burner, all housed in a sleek stainless steel frame that's built to withstand years of heavy use. With its PureBlu burners and exclusive Sear Zone, it promises consistent heat distribution and intense searing capabilities, making it ideal for everything from weeknight burgers to elaborate weekend feasts. Priced in the mid-to-high range, it's not a budget buy, but its robust construction and advanced features justify the investment for those who grill frequently. Whether you're hosting large gatherings or just enjoying family dinners al fresco, this grill delivers the performance of a high-end restaurant grill right in your backyard.

Features

One of the standout features is the trio of PureBlu burners, which provide infinitely adjustable heat control and produce a consistent blue flame for superior fuel efficiency and even cooking across the entire 513 square inches of primary cooking area, plus an additional 174 square inches on the warming rack. The stainless steel cooking grates are another highlight, offering excellent heat retention and sear marks while being easy to clean after use. Then there's the innovative Sear Zone, powered by a high-output infrared burner that reaches temperatures over 800 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for locking in juices on thick cuts of meat like ribeyes or pork chops. The side burner adds versatility, allowing you to simmer sauces, boil corn, or warm sides without crowding the main grill space. Finally, the grill's smart design includes Weber's iGrill 3 compatibility, letting you monitor temperatures via app for precise results every time.

Experience

From the moment I unboxed the Weber Genesis S-335, assembly was straightforward, though it took a couple of hours with the included instructions and tools. Hooking it up to my home natural gas line was simple with the quick-connect regulator, and lighting it up for the first time was a thrill, the blue flames igniting instantly without any hiccups. My initial test run was a batch of marinated chicken breasts and asparagus, and the even heat from the PureBlu burners cooked everything perfectly, with no hot spots or underdone sections. Hosting a Fourth of July party for 12 people, I seared porterhouse steaks in the Sear Zone while slow-cooking ribs on the main grates and boiling potatoes on the side burner, multitasking effortlessly. The stainless steel grates released food cleanly, and cleanup was a breeze with the grease management system funneling drippings into a removable tray. Over months of use, from summer brats to fall tailgate burgers, it has handled everything from delicate fish fillets to whole turkeys with impressive consistency, even in windy conditions thanks to the sturdy lid and wind guards.

Pros and Cons

On the pros side, this grill excels in build quality, with its all-stainless steel construction that resists rust and looks sharp year-round, and the PureBlu burners ensure fuel savings and reliable performance season after season. The Sear Zone truly elevates searing, producing caramelized crusts that rival steakhouses, while the expansive cooking space accommodates large crowds without compromise. Heat retention is phenomenal, holding steady temperatures for low-and-slow smoking or high-heat blasts, and the side burner expands its utility beyond just grilling. However, it's not without drawbacks; the initial cost is steep, around $1,000 or more depending on the retailer, which might deter casual users. Assembly requires some patience and ideally a second pair of hands for the heavier lid, and while natural gas is convenient, those without a line will need professional installation or a conversion kit. Space-wise, it's sizable at about 60 inches wide, so ensure you have ample patio room, and the lack of built-in lighting means you'll need external lights for evening cooks.

Advice

If you're a frequent griller who wants pro-level results without the hassle of charcoal or propane tanks, the Weber Genesis S-335 is worth every penny, especially for families or entertainers. Before buying, confirm your natural gas hookup or plan for conversion, and invest in a high-quality cover to protect it from the elements. Season the grates lightly with oil after cleaning to maintain their non-stick surface, and use the iGrill app for foolproof temp control on bigger cooks. Avoid overloading the grates to maximize airflow, and preheat fully for at least 10-15 minutes to hit peak performance. For beginners, start with simpler recipes to build confidence, but seasoned pros will appreciate its nuances immediately. Ultimately, this grill isn't just an appliance, it's an investment in countless memorable meals, proving that superior outdoor cooking starts with the right tool.

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