Boretti Imperatore Nero BI Barbecue – The ultimate gas barbecue for grand garden gatherings

The Boretti Imperatore Nero BI Barbecue is the flagship for the serious outdoor cooking enthusiast who makes no compromises. This impressive appliance combines Boretti's distinctive Italian design with advanced grilling technology, allowing you to entertain up to 20 people at once with restaurant-quality dishes. Boretti, the brand you know from The Great Garden Makeover, stands for style, durability and performance – and the Imperatore Nero BI proves it in every detail. With its striking black and silver gunmetal finish, this barbecue will become the statement piece of your outdoor kitchen.

This gas barbecue features four powerful main burners plus an infrared rear burner, all housed in a robust stainless steel and gunmetal construction that withstands all weather conditions. The iconic cast iron grates ensure perfect heat distribution and those coveted grill marks you otherwise only see in top restaurants. Thanks to the mobile base with two spacious storage drawers and a practical storage cupboard, you have all your grilling essentials within reach. The integrated thermometer and grease catch pan make this Imperatore Nero BI not only powerful, but also extremely user-friendly for both novice and experienced grill masters.

Features & benefits of the Imperatore Nero BI

Cast iron grates for restaurant-quality results

The cast iron grill grates of the Imperatore Nero BI are the beating heart of this barbecue. Cast iron retains heat considerably better than cheaper alternatives, ensuring your meat, fish and vegetables achieve that perfect caramelisation. The grates create those professional grill marks that barbecue enthusiasts dream of, whilst ensuring even heat distribution across the entire grilling surface. Once properly seasoned, these grates develop a natural non-stick coating that makes grilling a true pleasure.

Four main burners plus infrared rear burner

With four independently adjustable main burners, you have ultimate temperature control and can create different zones on your barbecue. Want to sear a steak sharply whilst vegetables cook gently? No problem. The infrared rear burner takes your barbecuing experience to the next level: this special burner reaches extremely high temperatures and is ideal for the perfect finish on meat or grilling a rotisserie. This combination of five heating elements gives you the flexibility to prepare virtually any dish to perfection.

Generous capacity for 20 people

The Imperatore Nero BI is built for grand occasions. With a grilling surface suitable for 20 people, you can effortlessly host garden parties, family reunions or neighbourhood barbecues without having to work in shifts. The additional warming rack also offers the opportunity to toast bread rolls, keep sauces warm, or slowly cook vegetables whilst you focus on the main course. This scale makes the barbecue the ideal partner for those who regularly enjoy entertaining large groups with delicious grilled specialities.

Durable gunmetal and stainless steel construction

Boretti is known for using premium materials, and the Imperatore Nero BI is no exception. The combination of gunmetal and stainless steel not only provides a stylish appearance, but also guarantees years of enjoyment. These materials withstand rain, wind and UV radiation, so your barbecue retains its beauty season after season. The black and silver colour combination fits seamlessly into any garden design, from modern minimalist to country classic.

Cleverly designed storage system

Two spacious storage drawers and a full storage cupboard ensure that gas bottles, grilling tools, spices and cleaning products are neatly organised and always within reach. The practical layout prevents you from constantly having to walk back and forth to the kitchen during cooking. Everything you need for a successful barbecuing session is in or right next to your outdoor kitchen, so you can focus completely on preparing delicious food and enjoying your guests.

Uses

Direct grilling for classic barbecue dishes

With direct grilling, you place the food directly above the burning burners for high, direct heat. This method is perfect for burgers, steaks, chops, sausages and vegetables that you want to sear quickly with that characteristic grilled flavour. The four main burners of the Imperatore Nero BI give you the ability to create multiple temperature zones, so you can prepare different items simultaneously. The cast iron grates ensure optimal heat transfer and those coveted grill marks that go with perfect barbecuing.

Indirect grilling for larger cuts of meat

For larger cuts of meat such as a whole chicken, spare ribs or a joint, you switch to indirect grilling. You turn off the middle burners and place the meat in the centre, whilst the outer burners provide ambient heat. Close the lid and your barbecue functions as an outdoor oven. The integrated thermometer helps you monitor the core temperature precisely, ensuring your meat cooks perfectly without burning. This method is ideal for slow cooking and produces tender, juicy results.

Rotisserie and rear burner for spectacular dishes

The infrared rear burner of the Imperatore Nero BI opens up a world of possibilities. Use it in combination with a rotisserie kit (available as optional extra) to rotate a whole chicken or a large cut of meat over the intense heat. The rear burner is also excellent for crisping poultry, putting the perfect finishing touch on pulled pork, or quickly searing meat before slow cooking it indirectly. This versatility makes the Imperatore Nero BI much more than just an ordinary gas barbecue.

Assembly & use

The Boretti Imperatore Nero BI comes with clear assembly instructions in Dutch. Assembly takes some time and preferably two people due to the size and weight of the components, but the construction is logically designed. All necessary tools and fastening materials are included. Take your time to assemble the barbecue carefully and check all connections before connecting the gas bottle. Ensure the barbecue stands on a stable, level surface and maintain sufficient distance from flammable materials.

Before grilling for the first time, it is essential to season the cast iron grates. Heat the barbecue with the lid closed for approximately 15 minutes on the highest setting. Then wipe the grates with kitchen paper and a little oil. This process creates a protective layer and prevents rust formation. Repeat this process a few times to build up the optimal non-stick coating. With regular use, the grates develop a lovely patina that only gets better with time. Clean the grates after use with a grill brush whilst they are still warm – this is easiest and most effective.

The grease catch pan should be emptied regularly to prevent grease build-up and unpleasant odours. Line the pan with aluminium foil for easy cleaning. Check the gas hoses and connections for damage before each use. Outside the grilling season, we recommend covering the barbecue with an appropriate protective cover or storing it in a dry location. The mobile construction makes it easy to move the Imperatore Nero BI to a sheltered spot or garage. A regular maintenance schedule guarantees that you will enjoy this premium barbecue for many years to come.

Frequently asked questions

Are the cast iron grates replaceable?

Yes, all parts of Boretti barbecues are replaceable, including the cast iron grill grates. Boender Outdoor can advise you on the correct replacement parts should that be necessary in the future. With proper care and maintenance, the cast iron grates will last for years and even improve as a natural non-stick coating builds up.

Which gas bottle do I need for the Imperatore Nero BI?

This barbecue runs on propane gas and is suitable for standard 10 or 11 kg gas bottles that are readily available in the Netherlands. The gas bottle is stored in the storage cupboard of the base. Make sure you use a suitable gas regulator that complies with Dutch safety standards. Boender Outdoor is happy to advise you on the correct connection.

Can I leave the barbecue outside all year round?

Although the stainless steel and gunmetal construction is weather-resistant, we recommend covering the Imperatore Nero BI with a protective cover or storing it in a shed or garage outside the season. This considerably extends the lifespan and keeps the barbecue in top condition