First off I will say it is very pretty. Its the main reason that I will keep it since it was on sale for around $20. That and I don't want the hassle of sending it back. I plan to use it for serving items, not necessarily cutting them. I've owned an Acacia wood bowl before and this does not feel the same. For cutting, well.. it scratches up the pretty finish and cuts into it pretty bad. My husband didn't think that it was real wood, if that explains how it feels to the touch. It's not just smooth, it's very shiny/glossy. I typically hand wash wood cutting boards and after a week or so use vinegar, salt and a lemon, or baking soda on them to get any smells out from onions, etc. I'm not sure how that is one would react. It isn't what I was expecting but looks beautiful. Now I have to order one to actually chop on, hah.