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Vidalia Grill Model 628 Review

Last Updated On: October 29, 2025
Vidalia Grill Model 628

Discontinued

VIDALIA IS OUT OF BUSINESS.

The Vidalia 628 is their mid-size cooker: unlike any other on the market. The unique design has two 20,000 BTU burners on the left direct side and a large water pan on the right indirect side. Air gets pulled in from the left by the gas flames, convection heat naturally moves upward and is deflected back down from the hood where it exits out the right exhaust vent. It’s actually a grill and roaster/smoker in one with 314 square inches of cooking surface on each side. Grill on the left, slow roast on the right. You can put small amounts of wood or charcoal over the left side flavor bars. Slide the water pan from right to the left/gas burner side and steam, boil or fry in it.

Graphic cross section showing air flow patterns inside a grill from left to right.
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The large shining aluminum body has a sleek, almost futuristic look and comes with a 99 year no rust warranty. Grates, burners and water pan are stainless steel. All models are available in either LP or NG versions. No BBQ rotisserie available or needed for this versatile device.

May be purchased online and at a limited number of independent stores.

Product Information
Model:
Grill Model 628
Item Price :
2,450.00
*Price Subject To Change
Review Method:
Researched it from Afar
We have researched this product from afar by gathering info from the manufacturer, owners, and other reliable sources, with our BS meters on high.
Primary Function:
Grill, Smoker, Combination Grill and Smoker, Drop Ins
Fuel:
Charcoal, Propane Gas, Natural Gas Capable, Logs, More Than One Fuel
BTU:
40000
Heat Flux:
123.08
Heat Flux is the BTU per square inch and is a more useful measure of how much heat a grill delivers than BTU alone.
Main Burners:
2
Primary Capacity:
Mid-Size (about 16 burgers) : 325 square inches
Secondary Capacity:
314 square inches
Manufacturer Information

Vidalia Outdoor Products manufactures one of the most clever designs we've seen. It is divided in two, a direct heat zone and an indirect heat zone. The indirect zone has a water pan under it (they incorrectly call this a marinade pan, but we're nitpicking). Exhaust openings are below the grates so smoke must travel across the food. Charcoal or wood may be tossed on the flavor bars for steaks and smoking. Sear over the direct zone and/or smoke over the indirect zone. Vidalia was actually a finalist in the 2003 VESTA Awards for Charcoal and Wood Barbecues and Smokers. Not bad for a gasser. The briquette tray can be lifted out as a unit and the water pan can slide over the heat to steam or boil. Remove water and the pan can be used as a griddle or for stir frying.

May be purchased online and at a limited number of independent stores.

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