Would the table would have ceramic tile as its surface?

Yes, the top would have 1-1/2" wood trim around the outside with 8" tiles on the inside. I can't seem to find a picture of it anywhere, but believe it is Canadel that makes them.

I wouldn't use a grouted tile table or work surface in a kitchen or anywhere food is prepared.

You might consider a metal table with a slate inset? It would have a more modern look and fewer grout issues, while retaining the tiled look your husband wants. The ceramic tile kitchen tables I've seen (there are usually a half-dozen on our Craigs List at any given time) are fairly countrified and white + golden oak-y.

Don't have any examples of it, but how about a slate colored tile think dark blue green with veining, or actual slate, with an espresso or rather dark finish? Keep the wood to a minimum running through the table and shaker style legs?

I wouldn't use a grouted tile table or work surface in a kitchen or anywhere food is prepared.

The tile tables usually use caulking instead of grout, and if they DO use grout, you can bet it'll be epoxy.

I agree with chrisk about using dark colors. I made a kitchen counter using larger dark brick colored tiles and it looks great and wears well. I've had no problem with the grout because I sealed it properly and used unsanded grout to get a tighter fit between tiles with no shedding of sand during heavy use. You can also get grout in many colors to match or compliment your tiles. Darker colors will not show food stains, although if properly sealed that shouldn't be a problem.