This was purchased for two reasons: I did not want to drag out the outdoor grill just to make a few burgers and my old skillet no longer had it's non-stick coating for making pancakes.  This is the perfect solution for both.  Even though the plates are dishwasher safe, I am handwashing them to extend the life of the non-stick coating.  Great purchase and my parents are thinking about getting one too after making quesadillas with it!