I use it to smoke everything except brisket. I like oak for that. But yes to ambiance too. When splits are in the house it smells sooo good and so does the smoke from the flue.
Maybe a little of both...put a little on the grill to smoke dinner, and a little in the stove. I will have to celebrate a day early. Work nite shift on the 14th. My hunny is special, she is a Valentine's baby, her b-day.