I think those banquettes with backs against base cabinets look awkward. If it will be your only dining area in the house, I'd say it's a bad idea.

if you're open to more ideas, please post a sketch of your if your space and we'll see what we can come up with.

I will do that. we might drop the peninsula. We do have a separate dining room but I agree the higher bench would be awkward

Why not post your layout?

I agree a high bench is odd and will be hulking in any space. Nothing wrong with a peninsula, just get stools that tuck under when not in use.

In general, banquettes are awkward. Only the person on the end can easily get in and out. Unfortunately, this arrangement sounds more awkward than most.

You don't necessarily want to give up on the peninsula. Peninsulas can be great in kitchen depending on the layout of the rest of the kitchen.

If you do post your layout, this will be helpful:

How do I ask for Layout Help and what information should I include?

• http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2767033/how-do-i-ask-for-layout-help-and-what-information

Also...

New to Kitchens? Read Me First!

• http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/4306041/new-to-kitchens-read-me-first

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Walls are being removed but I will post sketch. Thank you everyone.

I agree with beachem, my sister has a banquette in her kitchen and I hate eating at it too. It's so uncomfortable.

I had a banquette in my last kitchen - it was in the corner underneath two windows and was upholstered so it was comfortable. It was the perfect spot to lounge over a cup of coffee in the morning or over a glass of wine in the evening. My kids ate every meal there, but we also had a formal dining space. For us, it was great "hangout" spot in the kitchen - we used it a lot and were sad to give it up when we moved.