This table is a good utilitarian kitchen table. Don't be fooled, it's pretty small. Measure carefully to make sure you chairs will fit! Mine do, but just barely. It was a close call. This table does the job for a small space. I had planned on using it without the middle leaf, but it's so tiny even for just 3 people. We have put the leaf in for everyday use. The finish has some imperfections, but who cares, that will happen anyway with a family table. It's solid wood, but the type of wood is relatively lightweight. The top is smooth and easy to wipe clean. It compliments our 1970's knotty pine paneling pretty well.