Do you have a picture you can post?

I'd love to see a photo too. It does seem like two different wood elements like that would distract from each other and sort of kill the excitement from either.

Without seeing it, I'd say paint is a possibility, though I have to say...I like painted cabinets to start with.

Maybe an alternative would be a much darker stain on the cabinets?

what did you seal the butcher block countertops with? I want them so bad but hear that the water around the sink area is a major problem. let me know if yours are still holding up. thanks!