Monument Mesa 415BZ Grill Review: Premium Performance at a Mid-Range Price?

Introduction

Our review of the Monument Mesa 415BZ covers the stated specs and features and we analyze its performance and features. The Monument Mesa 415BZ represents a contender in the mid-range gas grill market, offering an impressive blend of features, performance, and build quality that aims to satisfy both casual grillers and more experienced outdoor cooking enthusiasts. This comprehensive review examines whether this popular propane grill delivers on its promises and provides true value for consumers looking to elevate their backyard cooking experience.

Key Specifications

• Primary Cooking Area: 450 square inches of primary cooking surface
• Secondary Cooking Area: 180 square inch warming rack
• Total Cooking Space: 630 square inches
• Burners: 4 main stainless steel burners + 1 side burner
• Total BTU’s: 62,000 total BTU’s (including 12,000 BTU side burner)
• Ignition System: Electronic ignition
• Grates: Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates
• Construction: Stainless steel burners with porcelain-coated steel lid and firebox
• Dimensions: 55″ W × 22″ D × 46″ H
• Weight: Approximately 91 pounds
• Warranty: Limited 1-year warranty on parts, 8-year warranty on burners

Design and Build Quality

The Monument Mesa 415BZ features a distinctive large viewing window in the lid that sets it apart visually from the sea of stainless steel grills dominating the market. This aesthetic choice not only provides a unique look but also offers practical benefits in terms of being able to view your food without lifting the lid.

The grill cabinet and frame utilize a combination of powder-coated steel and stainless steel elements, striking a reasonable balance between durability and affordability. By viewing the overall weight alone, you probably guessed this is not constructed of heavy-duty materials like that of premium grills at higher price points.

Four plastic casters (two of which lock) provide mobility on most surfaces, though they perform better on smoother patio surfaces than on rougher terrain or grass. The control panel is clearly marked with larger knobs than many competitors, making adjustments easier.

Cooking Performance

Heat Output and Distribution

The four main stainless steel burners generate a combined 50,000 BTUs of heat across the primary cooking surface, providing substantial power for most grilling tasks. Heat distribution is generally good across the cooking surface, though some users report slightly cooler corners—a common issue with rectangular gas grills in this class.

The porcelain-coated cast iron grates offer excellent heat retention and produce impressive sear marks. They require proper maintenance to prevent rusting but represent a significant upgrade over the thinner grates found on budget models.

Temperature control is responsive, allowing for both high-heat searing and indirect cooking at lower temperatures. The built-in thermometer provides adequate accuracy for general grilling, though serious cooks might still prefer using a separate digital thermometer for precision.

Cooking Versatility

The 12,000 BTU side burner adds considerable versatility, allowing for preparation of sides, sauces, or other accompaniments while main dishes cook on the primary surface. The lidded design means this space can double as additional prep area when the burner isn’t in use—a thoughtful touch for those with limited counter space.

With 450 square inches of primary cooking space, the Mesa 415BZ can accommodate approximately 23 burger patties simultaneously (supposedly), making it suitable for medium to large gatherings. The additional warming rack provides space for toasting buns or keeping food warm while other items finish cooking.

Unique Features

The Monument Mesa 415BZ includes a few notable features that distinguish it from competitors:

1. LED-Illuminated Control Knobs: LED lights illuminate the control panel, improving visibility during evening cooking sessions—a genuinely useful feature rather than mere aesthetic.
2. Built-in Bottle Opener: A seemingly small addition that proves convenient during outdoor entertaining.
3. Window Lid: The large window built into the lid provides both aesthetic differentiation and practical benefits in terms of heat retention.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

Assembly requires approximately 1-2 hours with basic tools, with instructions that are clearer than many competitors. The electronic ignition system reliably lights burners with a single push in most cases, though occasional issues have been reported after extended use.

The grease management system consists of a removable drip tray that slides out from the back of the grill, which works effectively but can be slightly awkward to access compared to front-accessing systems. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates require regular maintenance (oiling after cleaning) to maintain their non-stick properties and prevent rusting.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Decent cooking capacity with 630 square inches of total grilling space
• Powerful 50,000 BTU output across four main burners
• Versatile 12,000 BTU side burner with lid
• Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for superior heat retention and sear quality
• Large viewing window in lid
• LED-illuminated control knobs for improved nighttime visibility
• Useful side shelf at 227 sq. in. and integrated bottle opener
• 8-year warranty on burners exceeds many competitors

Cons:

• Some hot and cool spots across the cooking surface, particularly at corners
• Grease tray access from the rear can be inconvenient
• Cast iron grates require more maintenance than stainless steel alternatives
• Assembly can be challenging with some poorly threaded screws reported
• Side shelves don’t fold down for storage in tight spaces
• Included temperature gauge lacks precise accuracy
• Limited 1-year warranty on most parts (except burners)
• Propane tank not included with purchase

Value and Recommendation

The Monument Mesa 415BZ occupies an interesting position in the market, offering several features typically found on more expensive models while maintaining a mid-range price point. The grill represents solid value for consumers seeking an upgrade from entry-level models without venturing into premium price territory.

This grill is particularly well-suited for:

• Entertainers who frequently host medium to large gatherings
• Grillers who value cooking versatility with both direct and indirect methods
• Those who appreciate thoughtful design touches like tool storage and lighting
• Buyers seeking better build quality than budget models without premium pricing
• Users who prioritize searing performance and heat retention

Those seeking professional-grade construction or specialized cooking capabilities might need to look at higher-priced options. However, for everyday grilling needs with some additional versatility, the Mesa 415BZ delivers performance that compares favorably to many more expensive alternatives.

Conclusion of the Monument Mesa 415BZ Review

The Monument Mesa 415BZ strikes an effective balance between performance, features, and affordability. While it doesn’t quite match the construction quality or refined engineering of grills in the premium segment, it offers significant upgrades over entry-level models in terms of cooking capability, durability, and thoughtful design features.

The distinctive large viewing window, illuminated controls, and generous cooking capacity make this grill an attractive option for those seeking to elevate their outdoor cooking without breaking the bank. With proper maintenance and care, the Mesa 415BZ should provide several years of reliable service for a wide range of outdoor cooking applications.

For buyers in the mid-range gas grill market, the Monument Mesa 415BZ deserves serious consideration, offering a compelling package that successfully bridges the gap between basic functionality and premium performance.

Where to Buy the Monument Mesa 415BZ

• Amazon
• Lowes
• Tractor Supply

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Monument Mesa 415BZ work with natural gas? No, this model is designed for liquid propane use only. Monument does not offer a natural gas conversion kit for this specific model.

What size propane tank does it use? The grill is designed to use standard 20-pound propane tanks, which are not included with purchase.

Are replacement parts readily available? Yes, Monument offers replacement parts through their website and customer service department, though availability may vary for specific components.

How does the electronic ignition system work? The grill uses battery-powered electronic ignition (requires one AA battery) that creates a spark when you push and turn each burner knob.

Does this grill include a rotisserie kit? No, a rotisserie kit is not included with the base model but compatible aftermarket kits are available separately.