The soapstone is amazing it felt smooth like marble when it first arrived. It had small chips on the flat edge and corners but I imagine I'll probably add to those chips eventually. It holds heat great so even when your searing and you flip your steak over the same spot you were cooking it still has enough heat to sear the other side. It washes just fine, it really is easy. Kamado Joe grills have continued to surprise me. I can't say that I have much to complain about. I also have their pizza attachment and I love that as well.