there is no right answer.

have him do some samples on a leftover piece of wood and see what you like best.

Rubio monocoat has been used on tables like that. maybe you want something w/a bit of cerusing?

He was thinking to buy Odie’s Oil online, which may be similar to Rubio Monocoat, so he cant easily try different colors. What do people think would be most appealing the the majority of people? He may just be giving the table away!

I think that natural tone or one shade darker would look the best.

here's one w/your darker base

natural finish

Thank you. That’s very helpful!

Beautiful work.

I would have the top and bottom of the table match instead of two tones. I personally don't love a natural oak color, but it is just a matter of taste. Rubio Monocoat sells little sample bottles that are super useful for testing colors. Maybe the brand he is looking at does as well. If not, I would purchase a couple of cans and test them out. It seems insane to make such a table and not color test first.

Yes, all one color rather than two tone. I too would stain it.

I wish I had pictures for you--we just looked at a bunch of Rubio samples for our white oak island. We're going with Smoky 5%. Just a tiny bit darker than natural, and I think it makes the grain look really pretty. I agree with keeping it all one color vs two-tone. You can buy sample sizes on the Rubio website. I think a ton a people are still buying light/natural oak finishes, but I know darker wood tones are coming back in style too. It's a beautiful table; someone is going to be very lucky!