Looking to install a top on a 42" high cabinet for a kitchen island/bar - what should I make or buy?

Question:bought an inexpensive cabinet with top & 2 doors. want to install a top with an overhang for bar stools. don't know what to have made or use to make a top...ideas??

Answers:
Many many options.

I have always liked real butcher block for a bar top. It is a bit much for the whole kitchen, but makes an interesting bar top. Also doesn't look odd if it does not match the rest of the kitchen tops.

A laminate top is another option. High pressure laminate (Formica, Wilsonart, etc) has been the common counter top material for several years. It is probably your least expensive option.

Solid surface laminates are another option, a bit more expensive but easier to keep looking nice over a long period of time.

With either of the laminate options, make sure your supplier knows you will be overhanging the back for your bar, it will need to have extra reinforcement underneath.

If you want a project you can really put yourself into, you could also make a tiled top.

Concrete tops are interesting too, there is all kinds of information on the www about building those. Another project that will take some of your time and effort.

If you want to spend a bit more, a stone top of some sort would be an option. If you go to one of the fabrication shops and look around, you will probably find a good deal on a remnant from a larger job since you need a relatively small piece.