Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric Grill

Have owned this grill for a little over 3 years when the controller burned out. I went online and ordered a new controller from Charbroil ($34.95 + S/H). Upon arrival, I plugged it in and it blew my GFI ....after inspection, I realized the electric element was also burned out, causing the controller to not work. Again, back to Charbroil, where the element has been on back order for several months...and still is as of this date ($74.95 + S/H). After days of complaining by email with the customer service department, and no electric element replacement in sight, I am returning the controller for a refund and purchasing the Holland Electric Companion. This product has inherent problems that cost way to much after an already hefty purchase price.

I have owned this grill for over 5 years. It is unquestionably the best grill I have owned. No gas or charcoal to mess with. We live in Iowa and I use it all 12 months. Just plug it in, cook, and unplug when you're done. I always unplug it when I'm done, as I have it a lake house and am not there all the time. Highly recommednded. AAA+++++++

We have had the grill since the spring of 2000 (almost 8 years). This grill is used 4-5 times a week -- 52 weeks a year. That's over 1,500 uses for one grill and it should make it to 2,000. Because it is electric it sits on our screened back porch -- out of the elements. We have had to replace the controls one time and now are relacing the elements. We are looking for another one to have when this one finally plays out. All we do is pre-heat for 15 min. and then cook meat (steak, pork, chicken, vegatables) on the highest heat (not what the book says) with the cover closed. We know the exact time it takes to cook every item by now, so we just set a timer to tell us when to turn the food and/or when it's done. Couldn't be easier. The meats are always juicy and flavorful. You never have the "gas" taste that you sometimes get with charcoal or gas grills. The juice hitting the brickets and turning into steam gives the food the grilled flavor -- just as with gas and charcoal grills.

One note -- you need to clean the grill frequently, as you would any grill. We use a large pan to catch the drippings that never seem to drip into the can. We put newspapers in a pan and then throw the papers away without having to scrub the pan.

Easy setup, nice size, great grilling, what else can you ask for...

My husband and I were very leary about purchasing an electric grill, but due to the ordances and insurance policy at our condominium we could not have a gas grill. After lots of research we decided on this grill and are extremely statisfied. We use it all of the time. I would highly recommend if you are in the market.