When we redid our kitchen 7 years ago, we chose granite....and i am still so in love with it. I don't cut on it - and never sit hot pots on it without a pad......but i didn't do those things when i had the builder's Formica either.
I think all of the items that others have mentioned here are perfect for each person. It really all hinges on your taste and budget. I figured this was the one and only time (before i go out feet first) that i was going to remodel the kitchen - so i tried really hard to get what i liked and what would not be "dated".
OH...and by having under cabinet lighting installed too - my granite really gets shown off.