Have you considered Edison pendant lighting? They come in a range of shapes and finishes and are just lovely (and classic)! Here's an example from overstock, but if you run a google search on "edison pendant light," you'll get tons more examples of all the styles and finishes.

are they bright? I don;t have pot lights...so i need something that will give me lots of work light

Hi, Debbie - I think you'll want to check any if the ones you like and be sure they have the wattage you need to light up your kitchen real good. I have the same problem, but I'm in a state that requires energy-efficient lights only (for permitted renos), so no incandescents for me :(

Edison bulbs tend to give a warm yellowish glow -- if they're the main lighting in your room, it probably wouldn't be enough.

As for ideas, "traditional" means different things to different people, but oil-rubbed bronze might capture the feel you're looking for, given your stools, etc.

Savoy House 1-1704-2-13 Sutton Place 2 Light Island · More Info

Elk Lighting Yardley Chandelier, Oil Rubbed Bronze · More Info

Elk Lighting Chadwick Transitional Kitchen Island / Billiard Light X-3-53466 · More Info

Old Bronze 4-Light Island · More Info

Cornerstone Hamilton 3 Light Chandelier in Oil Rubbed Bronze · More Info

Uttermost Galeana 3-Light Chandelier Lighting Fixtures · More Info

Chandelier with Beige / Cream Glass in Neuvelle Bronze Finish · More Info

5-Lite Chandeliers, Dark Bronze · More Info

Hubby is pushing for energy effecient lights . I do like some of those above, forgot to mention we are getting rid of the stools, they are too high to sit on comfortably and going with a chair back type ,. I am leaning towards either the billiard style or hanging 3 pendants, i need task lighting as thats where i do all my prep