When we initially unpacked this set, we weren't sure we liked it.  What we thought was a black distressed table top was actually black painted on top of brown with the brown showing through in streaks.  Once assembled, it turned out to be very nice.  
We also didn't realize that the white chairs have orange stitching.  Again, once assembled, we like it (though we really don't understand the need for the orange stitching).
It's a sturdy, well-built set overall.