I don't see much of a difference between the two stain colors you're showing--maybe my computer monitor? FWIW, for the flooring and cabinets you've chosen, I think the stain colors lean a little too red. Perhaps something in a light walnut tone would be better?

My advice would be to get two or three pieces of wood in the same species as your bar counter, then get two or three different stain colors to test them on the sample pieces before application on the actual bar. Put on as many coats on the samples as you plan to put on the bar. Let them dry thoroughly before you make a decision on color.

Thank you for the comment- it helps figure out what I can or should decide. The stain samples are on a piece of scrap wood from the bar. It is Alderwood. The final product will have a poly finish so I don’t have to worry so much about drinks (it isn’t my main kitchen, but a basement bar). My goal is to create a contrast with the bar like the inspiration, but I didn’t want to go with totally gray cabinets, so I decided I liked the floor color for this element. I agree, the stains don’t look that different so either way would be ok. It’s too late to change the floors, but they are staining the cabinets onsite, so I could go with a cooler color with the cabinets (more gray) and just be out the cost of the stain. I’m driving my contractor crazy.

I went with the more yellow version and I think it turned out pretty good!

That looks great! I really like how it turned out!

what length and depth did you use for the wood counter top?