Mario Batali’s Piastra is an Italian grilling stone made of solid granite.  It is double sided (grill/griddle), although the griddle is what’s used traditionally, and is meant to be used for cooking foods such as seafood and flat breads over a hot grill.

Considering it cost around $50 US, I was extremely disappointed when it broke the first time I used it.  I followed the washing and care instructions carefully and as I was heating it up for the first time, a huge crack appeared that spanned 3/4 of the length.  According to the instruction booklet, if the stone cracks, you are to discontinue use immediately.  I suspect that a hairline crack was already present when I purchased it.  From reading customer reviews, I discovered that this has happened to other people as well.  Sounds like poor quality control to me.  Anyways, I can’t get a refund, but hopefully I can spare someone else the frustration with this product.