Would any of the following granite work for the kitchen: 1) Absolute Black 2) Black Galaxy, 3) Black Forest? or will it be too much black? We cook a lot and need something that is very durable will not stain or etch easily. But also that would work in the space aesthetically.

So much depends on your personal choices.....Do you want something bold, or something muted? Something at looks like carrera marble, or something that is glossy? Etc. I favour non-marble looking counter tops that contrast with the cabinets that still show some variation, so my choices would be something like

https://www.caesarstone.ca/collections/classico/6003-coastal-grey/

http://www.lgviaterausa.com/products/289/134

https://www.caesarstone.ca/collections/classico/6684-caldera/

https://ca.silestone.com/colour/ink/

https://www.cambriausa.com/Designs/design-palette/Armitage/

https://www.cambriausa.com/Designs/design-palette/Sharpham/

Toronto Veterinarian - we need something durable that will not get damaged easily as we cook a lot.

I was thinking of a granite with leathered of honed finish...

"we need something durable that will not get damaged easily as we cook a lot."

Then quartz or a solid surface (like Corian) would probably be your best choice, IMO. Granite takes more maintenance, as I understand it. That's fine for some, others want less maintenance.

Soapstone might be an option for you. Without more info it’s going to be hard for us to help you, but good luck.

I have a leathered charcoal grey granite. It is called negro San benedito if I remember correctly. You could then pick out a more contemporary tile for backsplash. Matches pretty close to my cinder color silgranite sink. I think a leathered granite is a good choice so everything isn’t so shiney.

Rebunky - Thank you! I like your suggestion. Leathered look will be a good balance for the shiny tile and glossy cabinets. Your granite looks beautiful!