I think honed counters are not ever a good idea honing opens all the "pores" to allow staining to happen much easier as for which real stone the one that works best in your space IMO the top pic works better with the cabinet color and what I asume is the gray floor you are mixing cool and warm toghether and that always needs a bridge that seems to be better in the top pic but of course we are seeing these choices on monitors so not a good way to judge .

You need to get a sample and test it yourself. If it is a Brazilian marble be sure you are ready for the etching, staining and patina and sealing that comes with marble

A glass tile will scratch marble but not Taj. Test both slabs to see the difference.

Thanks everyone! My kitchen will have the limestone painted cabinets on the island and the wood on the wall/L with the matte white cafe series appliances. Taj seems like the goto for everyone and I wanted to have something that stood out a bit which is why I am trending toward the superlative. All the above pics are the same product. Below is a rendering of my kitchen with Taj

You could standout a bit more if the Taj also went up the wall. I'm hoping the range is induction. Miele has a new 36" model with steam due out soon from their new US plant. HR 1632I-3

Thanks Chispa that is a good idea. I am headed there today. It has a some gray/blue tones but also has a beautiful gold veining that picks up the colors of the wood cabinet.

Ok after seeing slabs in the light with the cabinets the Taj Mahal wins. Again- hate to be the same as the rest but it does seem to go the best!

Glad you went back and looked at everything outside.

For durability and ease of cleaning, you won't regret going with the Taj Mahal. I have used TM in 2 kitchens and also have it in my outdoor kitchen in FL, even behind the gas grill. No issues with any of the slabs.

Hi, what cabinet brand is the Limestone cabinets?

Executive cabinets

The superlative is also sold as a quartzite It has a hardness on the mohs scale that is very close or the same as quartzite I used it in my old home when the kitchen was remodeled It was leathered and sealed It never etched or scratched even when cutting limes on the surface Loved the durabilty and ease of cleaning Having two kids at home I was so glad I never had to worry about the Superlative countertops I used these for 6 years and they looked as beautiful as day installed when I sold the house 6 years later I am building a new house and putting this product in again Many compliments on its beauty The product is gorgous and durable

Wow! Wish I knew that sooner!