You would need counter height stools. I like the one height island rather than the stepped down version. Make sure your clearances are sufficient for the seating your are planning that backs up to pantry.

Bistro or bar height chairs are what you'll need.

Kara Weik © 2012 Houzz · More Info

Kitchen · More Info

Counter height stools come in many different shapes, materials, and styles. They are a little harder with young ones because of the increased height. The munchkins like to climb and of course fall. Just make sure they are comfortable and have a bottom rung for people to rest their feet.

Personally I like table height for eating meals over counter height.

Thank you for the ideas. I have also considered shorter base cabinets that they make for handicapped people. That would put the island closer to table height but not sure if it would look weird having the island shorter than the base cabinets surrounding it

I like the idea of the one height counter with the bar height chair options that decoenthusiastes showed in the pictures. The one height counter allows more options of doing large projects or party serving, etc. I would be cautious of the shorter base cabinets. Will it be too short to prep, cook, serve, etc.? Good luck!

Curious. How is that weight being supported? Six feet of quartz or granite is heavy.