The effect of surface topography in combination with chemical composition on hydrophobicity and static coefficient-of-friction between steel and ice was studied. Polished stainless steel blocks were etched to introduce a roughness, and further treated with octadecanethiol. Carbon rich inclusions identified by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and scratches acted as the exposure centers to promote etching. Due to heterogeneities in steel, rounded cavities and parallel troughs were found on the surface after etching. Etched blocks with a lowered surface energy were studied under various ambient conditions to determine the influence of ice temperature and humidity on the static coefficient-of-friction. Blocks modified with octadecanethiol showed improved hydrophobicity. Warmer ice conditions led to a lower friction, regardless of the surface modification.