2009 VIP
CyndiA
southern, NC

Great road trip or tailgate grill - Weber Smokey Joe.

5 star rating

outdoor food writer, prefer charcoal to gas, busy mom, fun loving
Pros

    even heating, nice tailgate grill, lightweight, fun to use

Cons
    can't cook huge amounts, no bottom vents

JUN
23
2008
 
 
 

Weber Smokey Joe Gold Charcoal Grill — 

I got a Weber Smokey Joe tailgate grill many years ago. Our household goods were in storage with a military move. I wanted to grill out, so I picked up this small grill by Weber.

The little Weber grill works just as well as the big one. It has the same kettle shape that means even cooking. The vents on top help with heat regulation. The bigger one has bottom vents. This one does not. Too messy I'd say.

Obviously the Weber Smokey Joe won't hold as much as the larger sized Weber grills, but it holds more than I would have thought. It works fine for family cook outs (and uses less charcoal), and it's a nice second grill for side dishes or hot dogs.

When I want to cook up small amounts, I generally grab this little grill. We use it about once per week. We also take it on trips like to concerts or ballgames.

If you do use the Smokey Joe for tailgating, be sure to take some water to make sure the coals are out before you put the grill back in your car. Also, a large black heavy duty trash bag is a good idea. You can just pack up and then clean up when you get home. Charcoal can be a bit messy - but worth it for the flavor.

I have really enjoyed this little travel grill. In fact, I liked it so much that I got one for my Mom to keep at her vacation house in Virginia.



I_thumb_up Weber Smokey Joe Gold Charcoal Grill is recommended by CyndiA

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I_comment_shdw24 Comments about CyndiA’s Review

 


CyndiA wrote on Jul 24, 2008 at 9:07PM

In response to DUISparky's comment from Jul 24, 2008 at 4:11PM:

We have two of the Smokey Joes. One has the ash catcher with the vents. The other does not have those but has a top clip across handles but not bottom vent or catch. The one over here does not have the bottom vents. The one the boys' father has is the other design. How random. I think it must depend on the year it was bought. These two look almost just alike but those differences.

DUISparky wrote on Jul 24, 2008 at 4:11PM

In response to CyndiA's comment from Jul 24, 2008 at 2:57PM:

Yup, mine's 22" built into a little work space. I think it's called the Performer. I just notice in your cons list that the S.J. Gold doesn't have a bottom vent? My little Silver has a bottom vent and ash catcher. That sort of seems backwards to me, but what do I know huh?

CyndiA wrote on Jul 24, 2008 at 2:57PM

In response to DUISparky's comment from Jul 24, 2008 at 2:32PM:

I've got the big kettle too - the 22 incher. We used the 18 for years and years. Great grills in all sizes.

DUISparky wrote on Jul 24, 2008 at 2:32PM

I bought a Smokey Joe years ago when I was apartment living. Used it all the time and loved it. Now that I'm in a house I had to upgrade to the big Kettle, but Lil' Joe still goes with me on campin trips and stuff. Excellent little kettle!

Fardreamer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 at 11:32AM

Great review. Keep 'em comin', Cyndi!

kid-kansas wrote on Jun 23, 2008 at 11:12PM

I love my small grills, work great for camping or just a few people...;)

AmyA wrote on Jun 23, 2008 at 1:16PM

I love my smokey joe...we go way back and I will never give it up. Great for just my hubby and me. Love the lid on yours!!