Gas Barbecue Leonardo 2-Burner – Italian Design for Perfect Grilling Results

The Boretti Leonardo 2-Burner gas barbecue combines stylish Italian design with Dutch craftsmanship and is the ideal model for families and barbecue enthusiasts who appreciate quality. This Dutch brand, known from The Great Garden Makeover, guarantees durable outdoor kitchen appliances with attention to detail. With this compact yet powerful gas barbecue, you can effortlessly prepare delicious meals for up to 8 people, perfect for summer dinners in the garden or enjoyable weekend gatherings with friends.

What sets the Leonardo apart straight away is the combination of professional cast iron grilling grates and a robust stainless steel and aluminium frame. The two powerful gas burners give you complete control over temperature, whilst the refined grey-black colour scheme provides a timeless appearance. Thanks to the mobile construction and two practical side tables, you always have plenty of work space and flexibility in your outdoor kitchen. The generous 10-year warranty underlines Boretti's confidence in the quality of this gas barbecue.

Features & Benefits of the Leonardo 2-Burner

Cast iron grilling grates for restaurant-quality results

The professional cast iron grates with a surface area of 48x42 cm are the beating heart of the Leonardo. Cast iron heats evenly, retains heat excellently and creates those characteristic grill marks that every BBQ enthusiast dreams of. This material ensures optimal heat transfer to your meat, fish or vegetables, resulting in perfectly sealed exteriors and juicy interiors. Unlike cheaper enamelled or chrome steel grates, cast iron develops a natural non-stick coating with proper care that only gets better the more you barbecue.

Two Independent Burners for Maximum Control

The configuration with two separately adjustable gas burners gives you the flexibility to grill both directly and indirectly. You can set both zones to different temperatures, ideal when you want to cook vegetables on low temperature whilst searing steaks on high heat. This two-zone layout makes the Leonardo surprisingly versatile despite its compact size. The gas-fired system starts quickly and reaches your desired grilling temperature within minutes, so you don't have to wait long before you can get started.

Durable Construction with Premium Materials

Boretti has chosen a well-thought-out mix of materials for the Leonardo that combines durability with ease of maintenance. The stainless steel and aluminium frame offers excellent weather resistance against the vagaries of the Dutch climate, whilst remaining light enough to move the barbecue easily. The wheels make it simple to roll the Leonardo to the ideal spot in your garden or to tuck it away in a sheltered position. The grey-black colour scheme is not only timeless and stylish, but also hides minor signs of use better than fully black or chrome alternatives.

Practical Work Space with Side Tables and Tool Hooks

The two generous side tables provide plenty of space for preparing plates, marinades, seasonings and grilling tools. This prevents you from constantly walking back and forth to the kitchen – everything you need stays within reach. Furthermore, the Leonardo features three handy tool hooks on which you can hang your grill spatulas, tongs and brushes. These thoughtful details make the difference between a pleasant and a frustrating grilling experience, especially when preparing multiple dishes at once.

Applications

Direct Grilling for Quick Cooking at High Temperature

With direct grilling, you place your ingredients directly above the burning burners for intense heat. This method is perfect for steaks, burgers, sausages, fish skewers and vegetables that need to cook quickly and where you want those characteristic grill marks and smoky flavour. The cast iron grates reach high temperatures here that create the Maillard reaction – the caramelisation of proteins and sugars that creates that delicious crust and complex flavours. With the Leonardo, you can set both burners to maximum power for a consistent heat zone across the entire grilling surface.

Indirect Grilling for Larger Pieces of Meat

For thick ribeye steaks, whole chickens, spare ribs or even pizzas, indirect grilling is the key to success. Here you place the food not directly above the flame but beside it, effectively creating an outdoor oven. Turn on one burner and place your food above the switched-off burner – the heat then circulates around the food for even cooking without burning. This technique requires a bit more patience but delivers tender, juicy meat with perfect doneness throughout.

Barbecuing for Larger Gatherings

With a capacity for 8 people, the Leonardo is ideal for family celebrations, birthdays or simply a pleasant Sunday afternoon with the neighbours. The grilling surface of 48x42 cm offers enough space to prepare multiple dishes at once without having to work in shifts. For example, you can grill vegetables and halloumi on one half for vegetarian guests, whilst meat or fish is being prepared in the other zone. The combination of two burners gives you the flexibility to maintain different temperatures for optimal results.

Assembly & Use

The Boretti Leonardo is delivered largely assembled, but you will need to attach some parts such as the side tables, wheels and handles yourself. The included manual guides you step-by-step through this process, and with standard tools you'll be ready within an hour. It is advisable to assemble the barbecue in the place where you want to use it, or at least nearby, as the whole unit is sturdy and heavy once everything is assembled.

For first use, it is essential to season the cast iron grates. Do this by cleaning them with warm water and soap, then dry thoroughly and coat with heat-resistant oil such as sunflower oil. Then heat the barbecue at medium temperature for approximately 30 minutes. This process ensures that the oil penetrates the pores of the cast iron and forms a protective layer. Repeat this seasoning process several times for the best non-stick coating. After each use, you only need to scrape the grates clean with a steel brush whilst they're still warm and lightly oil them – don't use washing-up liquid as this breaks down the protective layer.

Maintaining the Leonardo is simple thanks to the quality materials. After each use, clean the side tables and exterior with a damp cloth, and regularly check the gas hoses and connections for wear. Outside the grilling season you can leave the barbecue covered outside, but for optimal lifespan it is recommended to store it dry and under cover. A suitable barbecue cover protects against rain, frost and UV radiation. Thanks to the wheels, moving it to a shed or garage is no problem at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the cast iron grates replaceable?

Yes, the cast iron grilling grates are replaceable and Boretti supplies spare parts for all their barbecues. Due to standard sizes, it is also possible to use universal cast iron grates. With normal use and proper care, however, these grates will last for years. The natural patina that develops is actually a sign of a well-maintained grate and only improves the grilling performance.

What type of gas do I need for the Leonardo?

The Boretti Leonardo runs on propane gas, which is readily available in refillable bottles or at petrol stations. For this you will need a gas pressure regulator (often supplied or available separately) that regulates the pressure from the gas bottle to the correct level for the barbecue. A standard 10 kg gas bottle will last many grilling sessions with normal use. Always check before use that all connections are tight and spray a soap solution along the joints – if bubbles appear, you have a gas leak that must be fixed first.

Can I use the Leonardo in Winter as well?

Absolutely, barbecuing with gas in winter is entirely possible with the Leonardo. Bear in mind that at lower temperatures it may take a bit longer for the barbecue to reach temperature and you may use slightly more gas. It is sensible to place the barbecue out of the wind and possibly use a windscreen. Make sure there is always adequate ventilation and never use the barbecue indoors or in a completely enclosed space.

How long does it take for the barbecue to reach temperature?

A major advantage of a gas barbecue like the Leonardo is the quick start-up time. After ignition, the barbecue reaches the correct grilling temperature of approximately 200-250°C within 10-15 minutes. For extremely high temperatures for searing steaks, you can set both burners to maximum and preheat for another 5 minutes. This is