I have been looking for an expandable round pedestal table for my kitchen. Black base and cherry-toned top. Kids will beat it up, so not interested in spending a fortune, but neither do I want it to fall apart in a year.

I can get the Riverside from a local, well-respected retail store for about $900 including tax (table and 4 side chairs). The best price I've found so far (not done calling around) on the similar Shermag is $1440 including tax and delivery.

If the Shermag is better made, the additional $500 is worth it to me. Still well under the Canadel set I had also been considering. I have seen some feedback on both brands in the forum, but haven't seen them compared quality-wise. Any feedback is appreciated.

Riverside:

http://www.riverside-furniture.com/selprod.asp?pos=7&mode=1&id=CDT&pID=CD65192

Shermag:

http://www.diningroomsdirect.com/asp/show_detail.asp?sku=GJ1795

Sorry - forget how to insert inline links!

Thanks!!