Quick Summary:
Price: $1,149
Pros
- Consistent Heat Distribution: The three main burners ensure even cooking across the entire grill surface.
- Versatility: With a sear station and side burner, you can cook a wide variety of dishes simultaneously.
- Flavor Enhancement: The Flavorizer Bars add a rich, smoky flavor to your food, enhancing the overall taste.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel components provide longevity and resistance to the elements.
- Spacious Cooking Area: With 669 square inches of total cooking space, there is ample room to prepare multiple dishes at once.
Cons
- Price: The Weber Spirit SP-335 is priced higher than some other grills in its category, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size: The grill's size may be cumbersome for those with limited outdoor space, making it less suitable for small patios or balconies.
As an avid grilling enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for a gas grill that combines performance, durability, and ease of use. After spending a significant amount of time with the Weber Spirit SP-335, I can confidently say this grill delivers on those fronts and more. If you’re like me, someone who enjoys both the occasional family BBQ and the weekend backyard grilling sessions, finding a reliable grill that performs consistently is crucial. In this review, I’ll dive deeper into the features of the Weber Spirit SP-335 and share my personal experience with this grill. By the end, I hope you’ll have a clear sense of whether this grill suits your needs.
Unboxing and Setup: First Impressions
When I first received the Weber Spirit SP-335, I was impressed with the way it was packaged. The grill arrived in several parts, each well-protected to prevent any damage during shipping. Assembling the grill was a bit of a task, but nothing too daunting. The instructions were clear, and all the parts were labeled, making the assembly process straightforward. It took me a couple of hours to get it all together, but once finished, I was excited to fire it up for the first time.
The grill’s stainless steel body and sleek design stood out immediately. I appreciated the modern look, which easily complements the outdoor space. It’s not too large or overpowering, but it offers enough surface area for cooking meals for a family or a small group of friends.
The Cooking Experience: Performance and Results
Now, let's get to the heart of any grill review—how it performs when cooking. The Weber Spirit SP-335 features three stainless steel burners that deliver a combined 32,000 BTUs of cooking power. As someone who loves grilling various types of food, from steaks to vegetables, having consistent heat is a must. The burners fired up without any issues, and I immediately noticed how quickly the grill heated up.
Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill: Perfect Searing and Even Cooking
One of the features I was most excited to test was the sear station. This additional burner provides a concentrated zone of high heat, perfect for searing meats and achieving those beautiful grill marks. The first time I used it on a steak, the results were impressive. The sear marks were perfect, and the steak cooked quickly while maintaining juiciness. If you’re someone who enjoys getting that professional sear on your meats, this feature alone makes the Weber Spirit SP-335 stand out.
But searing isn’t all the grill is capable of. With the even heat distribution from the main burners, I’ve had success cooking delicate items like fish and vegetables. The stainless steel grates also retain heat well, which means food cooks evenly without hotspots. This was especially useful for cooking multiple items at once—something I do often when grilling for family gatherings.
Versatility with Side Burner and Warming Rack
Another feature that I’ve come to appreciate is the side burner. This burner is perfect for preparing side dishes, sauces, or even boiling corn on the cob while the main meal cooks on the grill. It’s one of those conveniences that might not seem essential at first, but once you use it, you realize how useful it really is. For example, I’ve used it to sauté vegetables while grilling chicken, and it helped speed up the cooking process while minimizing the need for an extra stove or burner inside.
The warming rack has also been a helpful addition. Whether I’m toasting buns or keeping food warm before serving, the warming rack has proven to be an essential feature. It’s not the most exciting part of the grill, but it certainly contributes to the overall functionality.
Easy Maintenance and Cleanup
When it comes to grill maintenance, the Weber Spirit SP-335 makes the process as easy as possible. The stainless steel components are relatively low-maintenance and are resistant to rust and corrosion. The porcelain-enameled grates are easy to clean, which I appreciate after cooking greasy or sticky foods. A quick scrape after each use keeps the grates in top condition.
Additionally, the grease management system works well to ensure that drippings are directed away from the burners, reducing flare-ups and making cleanup simpler. The drip tray is easy to remove, and I’ve found that regular maintenance keeps the grill in excellent working condition.
Fuel Efficiency and Usage
One thing that impressed me about the Weber Spirit SP-335 is its fuel efficiency. The grill uses propane, and the fuel gauge located on the side makes it easy to track how much gas you have left. This is a small detail, but it has saved me more than once from running out of gas mid-grill. The ignition system also works consistently every time I light it up, and I haven’t had any issues with it since I started using the grill.
Size and Cooking Space: Just the Right Fit
With 529 square inches of total cooking space, the Weber Spirit SP-335 provides ample room for preparing large meals. The 424 square-inch main cooking area is large enough to accommodate multiple steaks, burgers, or vegetables. I’ve easily cooked for a family of four without feeling cramped for space. The warming rack is an added bonus, offering extra room for keeping food warm without crowding the main grilling surface.
For someone who occasionally entertains, this size is perfect—it’s not so large that it takes up too much space in your yard, but it’s spacious enough to feed a group comfortably.
What Could Be Better: A Few Minor Cons
While my experience with the Weber Spirit SP-335 has been largely positive, no product is without its flaws. The first thing I noticed is that the stainless steel components, while sturdy, can show signs of wear over time. The grill’s exterior can develop fingerprints or smudges, which, although easy to wipe off, detracts from its polished look if not cleaned regularly.
Additionally, the price point of the Weber Spirit SP-335 is on the higher end. While I believe it’s worth the investment given its performance and durability, it might not be the most budget-friendly option for everyone.
Customer Feedback: What Others Are Saying
After using the Weber Spirit SP-335 for several months, I wanted to see how it held up for other users. I checked out a variety of customer reviews and found that many people shared similar sentiments about its reliability and cooking performance. Some mentioned that the side burner and sear station were game-changers, just like I experienced. However, a few users noted that the grill could take a little longer to clean after cooking particularly messy foods like ribs or fatty cuts of meat.
In general, the feedback from others reinforced my experience—this grill offers excellent value for those who are willing to invest in a high-quality, versatile product.
Product Review Conclusion
In conclusion, after months of use, I can confidently say that the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill is a reliable and powerful choice for anyone serious about grilling. It offers consistent performance, solid build quality, and a range of useful features like the sear station, side burner, and warming rack. While it’s priced higher than some other grills in its category, I believe it provides enough value to justify the investment.
Whether you’re hosting a weekend BBQ, preparing a quick dinner, or perfecting your steak-searing skills, the Weber Spirit SP-335 is a grill that can handle it all with ease. It’s a solid addition to any outdoor kitchen and will likely serve you well for years to come. If you’re looking for a gas grill that balances power, convenience, and versatility, this might be the one for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Weber Spirit SP-335 Gas Grill
Q: What is the total cooking area of the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 offers a total cooking area of 529 square inches, which includes 424 square inches of primary cooking space and a 105 square-inch warming rack.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 have a sear station?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 comes with a sear station that allows you to create intense heat for searing meats, giving them professional grill marks and flavor.
Q: How many burners does the Weber Spirit SP-335 have?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 is equipped with three stainless steel burners, delivering a total of 32,000 BTUs of cooking power.
Q: Is the Weber Spirit SP-335 suitable for cooking large meals?
A: Yes, with its 529 square inches of cooking space, the Weber Spirit SP-335 can easily handle meals for a family or a small group of friends, making it great for both everyday grilling and larger gatherings.
Q: What material are the grates made from?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 features porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates that retain heat well and are easy to clean.
Q: How easy is it to assemble the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: Assembly is relatively straightforward. While it may take some time, the instructions are clear, and all the parts are labeled, making it manageable for most users.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 come with a side burner?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 includes a side burner, which is perfect for preparing side dishes or sauces while grilling on the main burners.
Q: What kind of ignition system does the Weber Spirit SP-335 use?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 uses the Electronic Crossover Ignition System, which ensures reliable and easy lighting of the burners every time.
Q: How do you clean the Weber Spirit SP-335 after grilling?
A: The grill is easy to clean due to its porcelain-enameled grates and grease management system. Simply scrape the grates after each use and empty the grease tray regularly.
Q: What is the warranty on the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 comes with a 10-year warranty, which covers all parts, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection against manufacturing defects.
Q: Can the Weber Spirit SP-335 be used with natural gas?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 is compatible with natural gas, but you’ll need to purchase a natural gas conversion kit separately if you plan to use it with a natural gas line.
Q: How much does the Weber Spirit SP-335 weigh?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 weighs approximately 130 pounds, making it sturdy but still manageable for most users when moving or relocating it.
Q: What are the dimensions of the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: The overall dimensions of the Weber Spirit SP-335 are approximately 44.5 inches in height, 52 inches in width, and 27 inches in depth. This makes it a great size for a variety of outdoor spaces without being too bulky.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit SP-335 come with a cover?
A: The Weber Spirit SP-335 does not come with a cover, but you can purchase one separately to protect the grill from the elements when not in use.
Q: Is the Weber Spirit SP-335 easy to move around?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit SP-335 features durable wheels, which make it easy to move the grill around your outdoor space for convenience and storage.
Q: Can I cook using indirect heat on the Weber Spirit SP-335?
A: Yes, you can set up the Weber Spirit SP-335 for indirect cooking by turning off one or two of the burners and cooking food over the unlit burners. This method is great for larger cuts of meat that require slow cooking.