This is a much more “real wood” feel than I expected. The leaf and drawer function wonderfully. I didn’t give it five stars for two reasons. The dowel rods should, in my opinion, be painted, perhaps a high gloss black to match the hardware. They look strange unfinished and detract from the piece. The curve cut to the side shelves is kitschy and unattractive and two of the directions are inaccurate. Otherwise I am quite happy with this piece. I plan to give it to my son as a way to set up his first apartment with extra storage in the kitchen.