Product test: Santos S-318 Pro stainless steel

Everyday grill machine
Test: Elmar Fetscher

Most people probably know Santos as a renowned grill retailer. However, many don't realize that the Cologne-based company has been building a retail grill brand for several years now, one that's increasingly able to compete with established grill manufacturers. Good ideas and constant product improvements are increasingly putting Santos grills in the spotlight among grill buyers. The Santos S-318 Pro Stainless Steel falls into this category.

Data and assembly
The frame construction gives the S-318 Pro's base a high level of stability. Double-walled doors and heavy-duty wheels are used, along with stainless steel wherever it makes sense: in the gas cylinder compartment, on the burners and their corresponding covers, on the double-walled lid, and on the side shelves. Guided by the clear assembly instructions and the clearly labeled screw sets, assembly was completed in a short time – perfect! Only the installation of the infrared side burner was a bit more tedious.

Operational
The controls for the three bar burners in the cooking chamber and the slightly smaller controls for the side and rear burners (3.5 kW) are clearly marked and illuminated. The reduced gap at the rear of the lid and a double-walled stainless steel hood reduce heat loss. The foldable warming rack, which almost doubles the grilling surface, is a great idea. The solid cast iron grates are excellent heat storage devices and create optimal searing on the grilled food. If that's not enough, you can use the 800°C infrared side burner (4.5 kW).

1. The fastening material is clearly laid out and well packaged.

2. The stainless steel tray for the gas bottle and an accessory rack.

3. The sturdy wheels can be locked individually.

4. Three stainless steel rod burners, each with 3 kW.

5. Creates more space: The pull-out warming rack.

6. Heavy-duty cast iron grates.

7. The infrared side burner is equipped with a stainless steel grate.

8. Well-labeled controls.

Conclusion:
Burner covers are a weak point on many gas grills. Santos has addressed this issue by equipping the S-318 Pro with stainless steel covers. And not only there: Everything that can rust has been replaced with stainless steel. This significantly extends the grill's lifespan. To offer even more grilling options, the package includes a motorized rotisserie. This makes the Santos S-318 Pro Stainless Steel the perfect everyday grill.

The price for the Santos S-318 Pro stainless steel grill, including the spit, is approximately €1,149 (RRP). More information at: www.santosgrills.de