If you’re on the hunt for a powerful gas grill that won’t break the bank, I’ve got a gem to share with you. Introducing the Monument Mesa 325, a true sleeping giant in the world of grills. This beast of a grill has quickly become a favorite in my backyard, offering incredible bang-for-buck value.

In this review, we’ll dive into everything from unboxing to grilling performance, all with a focus on user experience and helpfulness. Plus, don’t miss my video review embedded below for an up-close look at this value-packed giant in action!

Disclaimer: Monument Grills sent me the Mesa 325 at no charge for this review. No money exchanged hands, and they did not have any say in my opinions. Monument Grills also did not see this review before it was published on my site or YouTube. Hope you enjoyed this review! Be sure to check out my YouTube video for a more in-depth look at the Monument Mesa 325. And remember, using my link for your purchase will get you that sweet 5% discount with free shipping. Happy grilling, everyone!

Unboxing and Assembly

When the Mesa 325 arrived, I couldn’t wait to get it set up. The unboxing was straightforward, with all parts well-packed and labeled. The assembly process was relatively easy, thanks to the clear instructions. Most of the screws were already in place, making it a quick job. Just a heads-up, you might need a second pair of hands for some of the steps, but overall, it was hassle-free.

I was impressed by how everything was organized, making the setup almost fun. The excitement of seeing the pieces come together made the assembly feel like a breeze. Pro tip: have a cold drink nearby and maybe put on some tunes to enjoy the process.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the robust build of the Mesa 325. Made with 304 stainless steel, it promises longevity and rust resistance. The die-cast aluminum lid is another highlight, providing excellent heat retention and durability. I chose the black model, but it’s also available in red and blue, adding a stylish touch to any backyard.

The overall look of the Mesa 325 is sleek and modern. It’s not just about functionality; this grill adds a bit of flair to your outdoor space. It’s clear that Monument put thought into both the aesthetics and the build quality, which I appreciate.

Cooking Performance

Now, let’s talk performance. The Mesa 325 boasts three burners with a total output of 36,000 BTUs and an additional 12,000 BTU side burner. The cooking area is generous, with 542 square inches in total, including a 392 square inch primary cooking space and a 150 square inch warming rack. During my testing, the grill heated from 0 to 700 degrees in about 10-13 minutes, reaching 500 degrees in just 3-4 minutes. It heats up fast and cooks evenly, making it perfect for searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs.

I was particularly impressed with how evenly it cooked. Whether I was grilling burgers, chicken, or vegetables, everything came out perfectly cooked. The ability to control the temperature so precisely makes a huge difference. In-fact, I’ve been so happy with the performance vs cost, I’ve added it to my Best Grills of 2024 list.

Features and Convenience

One of my favorite features is the ClearView lid. It challenges the old saying, “If you’re lookin’, it ain’t cookin‘,” because you no longer need to open the lid to check on your food. The LED lights on the knobs are another cool feature. They switch from white when the gas is off to red when it’s on, making the grill look like a beast at night. The caster wheels roll smoothly and have locks, ensuring stability during use.

The under-grill storage is spacious, perfect for BBQ tools, paper towels, and tin foil. The grease trap is a great touch, helping to maintain the grill and prevent grease buildups and flame-ups. The two side tables are practical, with the right one doubling as a 12,000 BTU side burner. Each side table also has three hooks for your BBQ tools, keeping everything within easy reach.

These features make the grilling experience so much smoother. It’s the little things, like having your tools right where you need them and not having to worry about grease buildup, that really add up.

User Experience

Using the Mesa 325 has been a delight. It’s user-friendly and gets hot quickly, making grilling a breeze. The cast iron grill grates are another plus. I’ve dealt with cheap metal grates that rust out after one season, so it’s nice to see some that should last for years.

The entire experience feels high-end, from the sturdy build to the convenient features. It’s clear that this grill was designed with the user in mind, making it a pleasure to use.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the Mesa 325 is straightforward, thanks to the porcelain-coated grates and removable grease tray. Regular maintenance is easy and ensures the grill stays in top shape. A quick brush and wipe down after each use keep it looking and performing great.

This ease of cleaning is a big deal. No one wants to spend hours scrubbing after a fun grilling session. With the Mesa 325, maintenance is minimal, which is a huge plus.

Price and Warranty

Priced around $345.99, the Mesa 325 offers great value for a mid-tier gas grill. It comes with an 8-year warranty on the burners and a 1-year warranty on other parts, providing good coverage and peace of mind.

Considering the quality and features, this price point is fantastic. Plus, the warranty gives you extra confidence in your purchase.

Special Offer

By the way, if you’re thinking about getting one, using my link gets you a 5% discount and they offer free shipping, so it’s a great way to get it fast and for a great price. Plus, using my link may earn me a small commission from the brand, but it does not impact the price for you. In fact, with my link, it’s cheaper!

My Video Review of the Mesa 325

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fast and even heating
• ClearViewHD for monitoring food without losing heat
• LED knob lights for night grilling
• Durable cast iron grates
• Spacious under-grill storage
• Practical side tables with tool hooks

Cons:

• The side tables might have a lightweight rating and flex with heavy items
• Minor shipping damage (a small bend in the storage frame) but didn’t affect performance

Conclusion

The Monument Mesa 325 is a fantastic grill for any backyard chef. It offers excellent cooking performance, practical features, and solid build quality at a wallet-friendly price. Despite a small shipping issue, the overall experience has been positive. If you’re looking for a reliable and well-priced grill, the Mesa 325 is definitely worth considering.