This kitchen island is great, I bought it for a slightly different purpose. As it needs to be assembled there will be some visible screws which I knew when we got it. It is very sturdy and the top is a thick piece that can with stain spills although I would not cut directly on it (I would never cut directly on any counter top anyway). It is easy to assemble, it is heavy so know that before you pick a place to put it together.  If you are ok with the screws it is a perfect piece…and I forgot to mention the plugs!  Those are awesome they make it so convenient!